Whirlpool GS6NBEXSR01 how to run manual defrost

Refrigerator & Freezer Repair
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1

Brand: whirlpool Gold
Model Number: gs6nbexsr01
Main Symptom: ice on evaporator
What happens & when: will not get colder than 30 and ice forms on bottom of evaporator, not on top. Heater and thermostat continuity came back as good not OL.

How do I do a manual defrost ? Google says hit the temp '- ’ button 3 times but this fridge is old and has knobs for temperature on inside fridge. I tried holding door sensor and turning knob but no luck. Both set to 5

Does this unit have a manual timer for defrost or a board?

Error Code (if any):
Parts or tests already tried:Heater and thermostat continuity came back as good not OL.
Photos / video link:

PXL_20260604_162144894~2
PXL_20260604_162144894~21889×1589 348 KB

2

I’m attaching the service sheet for this one, it goes over the diagnostic modes.

To enter diagnostic mode:

  1. Set the freezer (FC) and refrigerator (RC) temp knobs to 0.
  2. Push in the door switch and turn the RC temperature to 1. FC should be showing U and RC will be showing a digit 0-9 for 3 seconds, this is the revision # user interface software. Then the FC will show P and the RC will again be showing a digit for 3 seconds, this is the main control revision #, then go into diagnostic test mode
  3. The FC should transition to a 1, this is the test # you are on. RC is used to show the status of the test. Test 1 is a thermistor test and should have P (Pass) or F (Fail) in the RC display.
  4. The RC knob is used to advance through the tests.

Now that you’re in diag test mode you’ll go to test 2. This powers the defrost circuit. If the defrost bi-metal/thermostat is closed then the heater should be coming on. The fridge will automatically exit diagnostic mode after 20 minutes or if you cycle power by unplugging the fridge or turning the breaker off and then on.

This model uses a control board WPW10135090 instead of a defrost timer. This control board has been discontinued by the manufacturer and is no longer available for purchase. The manufacturer does not list a compatible substitute or replacement part.

servicesheet-2303922-reva.pdf (861.8 KB)

https://www.appliancepartspros.com/whirlpool-control-elek-thevenin-wpw10135090-ap6015557.html

3

Thank you for this very informative response!

I ran the test #1 thermistor came back with a pass, then ran #2 and the heater came on.

So my question is if the coils are getting frosted up the control board WPW10135090 you mentioned is the likely culprit or would there be another item to test ?

4

The main control would be my suspect, this isn’t a defrost timer but runs a timed defrost cycle from programming so it does effectively the same thing.