We have a Whirlpool Side-By-Side Refrigerator (Model # ED25RFXFB01) for about 10 years now.

For the past 2 weeks, the refrigerator does not start back up automatically after the defrost cycle. Sometimes it works fine for 2 days before giving out; sometimes less than a day.

We keep a container of frozen water in the freezer section to determine whether the fridge is still working ot not. If the water in the container has started melting considerably, we conclude the refrigerator has stopped wotking.

(1) We turn the "Refrigerator" control knob from 'Recommended' setting to 'Colder' setting. Occasionally this is good enough to get it working
(2) If the above action does not start it up, we turn the "Refrigerator" control knob all the way to 'Off' for a few seconds and then turn it on. That ALWAYS gets it working

Most of the times, it is action (2) that brings it back up & working.

My spouse thinks there is no need for a major fuss and is perfectly content to see the refrigerator working this way. I don't see it that way however, what with the constant monitoring and having to put in that little bit of manual effort to turn it back on everytime it gives up. I am also not certain what impact this turning off completely and bringing it back on everyday will have on the longevity of the product.

- What could have gone wrong?
- Is this merely a part replacement? or does the entire refrigerator unit have to be replaced?
- If a part replacement, what is the part description & #?
- Is the fix simple enough to be handled by a Do-It-Yourself-er? or should the cavalry be brought in?
- If a DIY project, is there a schematic available for this model refrigerator?

Any help or pointers would be much appreciated.

Thanks
KRS

I would take out the control panel screws, and keep the control panel hanging down a bit. Next time it fails, tap on the defrost timer, or just turn adjustment screw in the middle of it, it's probably just sticking. If so, order a new one AP3110896