Very low voltage at defrost heater
After facing really bad temperatures in freezer (fridge compartment in line with expected temperature) of -2 to -8 degrees Celsius (vs -15 to -18 usually), I shorted the thermostat to check defrost heater voltage coming in.
I have a EU model so I expected to read 230VAC and instead I read 90VAC and the heater lamps weren't warm at all.
Resistance of each of the 2 lamps is 50 Ohms.
Thermostat is working.
Defrost temp sensor measured and was giving correct readings.
I suspect that the board is sending wrong voltage to the heater. I also had a weird symptom where suddenly the display showed -18 in freezer compartment when it was around zero degrees. As soon as I swapped the freezer compartment temp sensor, the reading came back to normal...
I just think of just applying 230VAC directly to the heater to see if I experience any improvement.
By the way, lower half of the evaporator coil has some extensive (but not too much) ice around it.
Any ideas more than welcome!
Al from Greece
Is this a good question?
Hi @relaxconst38193
What is the model number of the refrigerator?
by jayeff
Model number is PSG27SHMFCBS General Electric
by Relax Constructions
@relaxconst38193
I can't find the mini manual online for your model GE p/n 31-45945 but here's an article that shows where it may be found in the refrigerator.
Not sure if this is applicable to GE in Europe or not but maybe worth a look.
If you find it, there won't be a schematic of the control board (they're usually never made public) but it will tell you which plugs/pins on the control board connect to the defrost heater. At least you can check what the voltage is leaving the control board
It also details the procedure for performing the diagnostic tests which will allow you to manually turn on the defrost heater from the display panel.
by jayeff
Thanks for the reply.
I can't locate this diagram.
Front grill is very low profile anyway.
Condenser is hidden beneath covers that seem pressed on and not removable.
by Relax Constructions