How to replace a defrost sensor in a side-by-side refrigerator

Safely store any food that could deteriorate while the refrigerator is shut off. Then unplug the refrigerator or shut off the circuit breaker for the refrigerator.

Remove the shelves and baskets from the freezer compartment. Remove the screws from the shelf supports on the right interior wall of the freezer and pull the supports out.

Remove the mounting screws that secure the inside back panel of the freezer. Pull the bottom of the panel outward slightly to release it.

Note the positioning of the defrost sensor. Release the metal clip that holds the defrost sensor to the refrigerant line located above the evaporator.

Cut the brown and pink wires near the defrost sensor and pull the defrost sensor out of the freezer.

Use a wire stripper to remove the insulation from the ends of the pink wire and brown wire on the new sensor. Strip the ends of the pink wire and brown wire in the harness above the evaporator. Use wire nuts to connect the matching wires. 

To keep the connection dry, squeeze silicone sealant into the open ends of the wire nuts.

Clip the new defrost sensor onto the refrigerant line above the evaporator. Position it in the same manner as the original defrost sensor. 

Without disturbing the sealant on the wire nuts, push the wires above the evaporator. Use a cable tie to fasten the wires to other wires in the harness to keep them out of the way.

Reinstall the back panel and replace the mounting screws. Over tightening the screws can crack the freezer liner or the mounting rails. Rotate the screws until they stop and then snug them up with a final twist. Reinstall the baskets and shelves. 

Plug in the refrigerator or turn on the house circuit breaker to restore power.