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Why is my evaporator

Why is my Frigidaire Model FRS23H5DSBA evaporator freezing

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How many years have you used this refrigerator? Unfortunately, units 10-15 years old may not last as long as older units. Newer ones seem to have electronic issues, so called smart refrigerators. Older, less sophisticated units without complicated electronics may suffer failure from the sealed refrigeration system (leak or compressor). The evaporator freezing may be as simple as a broken defrost heating element or defrost timer failure. It may be as serious as a leak from the sealed system or worn out compressor. Without more information, public forum guessing is all anyone can provide. A knowledgeable person familiar with refrigeration can diagnose with detailed info or in person.

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Hi @terry64198

Various problems can cause the evaporator unit to ice up.

Here's a list of what could be wrong (in no particular order of most likely).

Faulty defrost heater:

If you have a DMM (digital multimeter) disconnect the power to the refrigerator and access the defrost heater and use the meter to check if the heater is OK. It should test 30-40 Ohms and not open circuit. You can also check if the defrost heater is working with the power connected. You can initiate a forced defrost, (once you have accessed it so you can check if it starts to get warm) by pressing the fresh food light switch 5 times in 6 seconds (light bulb must be working) To terminate the defrost, press the fresh food light switch 5 times in 6 seconds.

Here's a video that shows how to access the heater and replace it if necessary.

Search online for 5303918255 to find suppliers that suit you best.

Faulty defrost thermostat:

Disconnect the power to the refrigerator and access the bi metal defrost thermostat and use the meter to check if it is OK. It should open at 47°F and close again at 25°F.

Here's a video that shows how to access the thermostat.

Here's a video that shows how to test if the thermostat is OK.

If it's faulty and needs replacing search online for 5303918255 to find suppliers that suit you best.

Blocked drain tube leading from under the evaporator unit to the drain pan located under the compartment.

Here's a video that shows how to replace the drain tube that may help.

Faulty adaptive defrost control board:

The defrost control board initiates and controls the defrost cycle. Being adaptive means that it uses an algorithm based on how long the compressor has been running. This is determined by how often and for how long the doors have been opened i.e. cool air lost and needs to be replaced,and the ambient air temperature. This means that the defrost cycle could be initiated once every 8 hours or anywhere inbetween up to once every 30 hours.

Here's a video that show how to access and replace the adaptive defrost board in the refrigerator. Search online for 5303918476 to find suppliers that suit you best.

Wiring problem:

Here's the service data sheet for the refrigerator which has a wiring diagram that will help.

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Terry will be eternally grateful.
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