Before calling a repairman, I am trying to determine what is wrong with my refrigerator? I'm guessing it might be the defrost timer? Any help would be appreciated.

Purchased in 1991, GE Model GSH22KGMD-WW, Ser. LD243125

I was cleaning the refrig/freezer (side-by-side) about a week ago and I had the freezer door open for about 10 minutes.

Yesterday I noticed that everything in the refrigerator, on the top shelves was warm (56 degrees) and the stuff on the lower shelves is staying somewhat cool (47 degrees).

In the freezer, the top shelf is warm (nothing stays frozen) and the bottom is colder. There are a lot of frost crystals accumulating on the lower back wall of freezer.

The ice maker was never hooked up.


Thanks for any help. I'll probably have to call for service, but will try to fix myself - if it's a simple fix. :)
April