Refrigerators

Refrigerator Defrost Heater Replacement Guide

The defrost heater melts frost buildup on the evaporator coils during the refrigerator's defrost cycle. This prevents ice accumulation that can block airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.

242044020, 242044008 Refrigerator Defrost Heater - Compatible with Frigidaire, Electrolux Fits for AP6009169, PS11733097 Thermostat kit
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🏆 RECOMMENDED PART

242044020, 242044008 Refrigerator Defrost Heater - Compatible with Frigidaire, Electrolux Fits for AP6009169, PS11733097 Thermostat kit

  • Perfect Compatibility: Specifically designed to replace part numbers 242044020 and 242044008, ensuring a perfect fit for your refrigerator.
  • Solves Common Issues: Fixes problems like a too-warm refrigerator, non-defrosting freezer, and frost buildup on coils.
  • Reliable Performance: Works with the defrost timer to heat the cooling element at regular intervals, preventing freezing and ensuring consistent temperature.
  • high quality Material: Made with premium materials, tested to function as well as or better than original OEM parts, at a more affordable price.
  • Easy Installation: Simple and quick installation process, no special tools required. Get your refrigerator back to optimal performance in minutes. 
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What the 242044020 does

The defrost heater melts frost buildup on the evaporator coils during the refrigerator's defrost cycle. This prevents ice accumulation that can block airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.

Symptoms when this part fails

  • Refrigerator not cooling sufficiently
  • Excessive frost buildup in freezer
  • Water leaking from the freezer compartment
  • Refrigerator running constantly
  • Food spoiling quickly

Compatibility

Fits the Frigidaire family. Specifically:

  • Any unit originally equipped with OEM part number(s): 242044008.
  • Check the model/rating plate inside your appliance and compare it against the fitment table on the product listing before ordering — this guide does not list specific compatible models because Amazon does not provide verified fitment data through this pipeline.

Also replaces: 242044008

Tools you'll need

  • Screwdriver set
  • Nut driver set
  • Pliers
  • Multimeter (for testing)

Difficulty: Moderate · Time: 1-2 hours

How to install the 242044020, step by step

  1. Disconnect power to the refrigerator.
  2. Empty the freezer compartment and remove shelves.
  3. Remove the rear freezer panel to expose evaporator coils.
  4. Carefully disconnect wiring and remove the old defrost heater.
  5. Install the new defrost heater and securely connect its wiring.
  6. Replace the rear freezer panel and freezer shelves.
  7. Restore power to the refrigerator.

Related troubleshooting

If swapping this part doesn't fix the issue, check these next:

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only. Always disconnect power before working on appliances. If you're not comfortable with any step, call a qualified appliance technician.
The Appliance Aid Team

Researched and written by the Appliance Aid Team. We work from manufacturer service documentation, parts specifications and owner reports — not hands-on repairs. How we pick products.