Whirlpool Refrigerator WRT311FZBM00 short cycling

[chiefgeek]

Model Number

WRT311FZBM00

Brand

Whirlpool

Age

6-10 years

My fridge temps are around 46 F and freezer is cold( not sure exact temps)

I noticed the compressor and fans would come on and run for about a minute and then turn off for a few minutes and repeat.

I checked the defrost heater and it measure 35 ohms

I checked the heater thermostat and I measured continuity while cold.

 

[chiefgeek]

After taking the panel in back of freezer out it is not short cycling but it still wont get the fridge cool.

I put thermometer in freezer and it got down to 28 in a few minutes but fridge is never going below 46.

Underside coil/condenser thing is really clean, I blew it out with compressed air just in case before taking freezer panel off and didn't help the short cycle.

I noticed the fridge temp control was on the coldest setting and recall having cooling problems in the past.

 

[Jake]

After taking the panel in back of freezer out it is not short cycling but it still wont get the fridge cool.

Did the entire evaporator coil have a thin layer of frost on it?

It only does NOT short cycle with that evaporator cover panel off?

Jake

 

[chiefgeek]

I think it is less likely to short cycle while the back panel is off.
I put panel back on and let it run for a while and it runs for at least a few minutes, enogugh to get freezer to -15 or lower but fridge is still warm. I pulled back panel and there is white frost on it 3/4 the way up if not all the way up.

 

[Jake]

I pulled back panel and there is white frost on it 3/4 the way up if not all the way up.

Thick or a thin layer of frost on those coils?

Look at the very bottom photo below where it says NORMAL FROST PATTERN.



Is the fan in the freezer running at all times while the compressor is running or are both shutting down in what your calling short cycling? That evaporator fan motor sends the cold freezer air to the refrigerator section.

Here's the evaporator fan motor for your model:
WP2315539 Motor-Evap


For others following your thread--->This video shows you how to access it and it also shows you how to remove the back panel inside the freezer to check the frost pattern on your evaporator coil.

If both are shutting down, then its either the temperature control thermostat or defrost board.

Here's the temperature control thermostat for your model:

Whirlpool WPW10584888 Thermostat (AP6023206) - AppliancePartsPros.com

THERMOSTAT WPW10584888 / AP6023206 made by Whirlpool

click.linksynergy.com

Here's the defrost board for your model:
Control Board WPW10352689


Jake