[tottalyoff]

The fins in the freezer compartment are frosting up and not allowing air to circulate to the refrigerator side. How can I troubleshoot the defrost cycle?

[Admin / APP Team]

Hi tottalyoff,

From the Maytag manual:

ADAPTIVE DEFROST CONTROL
The adaptive defrost control assembly is a microprocesser controlled defrost timer. This new control allows defrost to occur only when needed, compared to mechanical timers which defrost at a preset interval whether it is necessary or not. The new control will continually adjust defrost intervals based on the amount of time the defrost heater is energized. This allows the defrost intervals to be adjusted closer to the optimum defrost interval based on use, thus saving energy.

HOW TO CHECK THE ADAPTIVE DEFROST CONTROL ON MAYTAG REFRIGERATORS
1. Disconnect the unit from the power source.
2. Open the fresh food door and remove any items on the top shelf.
3. Remove the light shield and the temperature control housing.
4. Connect the refrigerator to a wattmeter.
5. Make sure compressor is running (cold control closed).
6. Using an insulated number 22 jumper wire short between L1 and Test; this will
put the refrigerator into a defrost for approximately 23 minutes.
7. The watt meter should read between 500 to 600 watts depending on the
model.

Note: If the temperature control is open
(unit not running and you jumper L1 and
Test) the unit will cycle through the test
mode in two seconds and there will be no
watt draw.

macadaptdefrost.jpg

Check the adaptive defrost control first and let us know what you found.

[tottalyoff]

that adaptive defrost control is kind of hidden behind a few things. it's too bad they couldn't have made access to the test points a little easier. What I think I'm going to do this monitor the temperature right by the defrost heater for a day or so. I have already melted the ice from the coils and got the thing running again trying to save the food. But, when the ice starts to form again I am gonna do that test and I will let you know. Thanks for getting back so quick and thanks for the help. How did we survive before the Internet? Take care and talk to you soon.

[rallison]

I think I'm having the same problem and can't get to the adaptive defrost control module. Any advise on how to get to it to trigger the test point?