Need hlep from tech to repair refrigerator

Refrigerator & Freezer Repair
1

Brand:Kenmore
Model Number:106.59762990
Main Symptom:evaporator freezes up and top half of freezer melts and top half of refrigerator too warm
What happens & when: top of freezer melts and top half of refrigerator too warm when evaporator freezes up

Error Code (if any):
Parts or tests already tried:replaced temperature thermostat, defrost timer, & defrost thermostat.
Photos / video link:

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For Whirlpool/Kenmore refrigerator part 106.59762990, here’s how to test the defrost heater (element) and defrost thermostat (bimetal) with a multimeter.

Safety First

  1. Unplug the refrigerator.

  2. Remove the rear panel inside the freezer to expose the evaporator coil.

  3. Locate:

    • Defrost heater: mounted below or around the evaporator.

    • Defrost thermostat: small round disc clipped to the evaporator tubing.

Test the Defrost Heater

Ohms Test

  1. Disconnect at least one wire from the heater.

  2. Set meter to Ω (resistance).

  3. Measure across the heater terminals.

Expected Reading:

  • Typically 20–100 Ω (varies by heater design).

  • OL / Infinite resistance = heater is open and bad.

  • Very low resistance (near 0 Ω) = shorted heater (bad).

Test the Defrost Thermostat (Bimetal)

The thermostat must be cold to close.

Cold Test

  1. Leave it attached to the frosted evaporator, or place it in ice water for several minutes.

  2. Disconnect one wire.

  3. Set meter to continuity or lowest ohms scale.

  4. Measure across the thermostat terminals.

Expected Reading When Cold:

  • 0–1 Ω or continuity beep = GOOD.

  • OL / No continuity = BAD.

Warm Test

  1. Warm the thermostat above about 40–50°F (4–10°C).

  2. Test again.

Expected Reading When Warm:

  • OL / No continuity = GOOD.

  • If it still shows continuity when warm = BAD.

Quick Diagnosis

Test Result Likely Condition
Heater OL Replace heater
Thermostat OL when cold Replace thermostat
Heater good & thermostat good Check defrost timer/control board
Heavy frost on evaporator Defrost system failure

If you can send a photo of the evaporator after removing the freezer panel, I can help determine whether the heater, thermostat, or control is the most likely failure.

3

I will have to take panel out of freezer and test as per your instructions. will respond again after I test heater as I have already replaced defrost timer.

4

I have tested the heater and have no resistance. I will order a heater and install later as I just became aware of a family health emergency and must travel. Thank you for your help.