How to replace a freezer thermistor

This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the thermistor in a freezer. The thermistor senses the temperature in the freezer and then signals the electronic control board to turn the compressor on or off. If the thermistor stops working, the freezer won't keep the correct temperature. Replace a broken thermistor with the manufacturer-approved replacement part.

This basic repair procedure works for Kenmore, Frigidaire, GE, Gibson, Kelvinator, Crosley and White-Westinghouse freezers.

Instructions

1. Disconnect the electrical power

Unplug the freezer or shut off the circuit breaker for the freezer.

Move highly perishable food to a cooler or other cooled space. The freezer will be without power for about 45 minutes, which shouldn't affect most frozen foods.

2. Remove the evaporator cover

Remove the drawers from the freezer.

Remove the screws from the evaporator cover.

Pull the evaporator cover out of the freezer.

3. Remove the thermistor

Remove the thermistor mounting screw.

Cut the wires close to the old thermistor and then remove the thermistor.

4. Connect the wires to the new thermistor

Strip off 1/4 of an inch of the wire insulation from the end of the wires in the freezer.

Cut the wires about 4 inches from the new thermistor and strip off 1/4 of an inch of the wire insulation.

Connect the like-color wires together using wire nuts.

5. Install the new thermistor

Position the new thermistor on the back wall and reinstall the mounting screw.

6. Reinstall the evaporator cover

Position the evaporator cover on the back wall and reinstall the mounting screws.

Reinstall the drawers inside the freezer cabinet.

7. Restore electrical power

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