WRF989SDAF02 Whirlpool Refrigerator - Ice Build up in Freezer

[Maroon94]

Model Number

WRF989SDAF02

Brand

Whirlpool

Age

6-10 years

My Whirlpool freezer has ice build up to the point that the fan is making noise because it is hitting the ice. I have replaced the evaporator motor thinking that was the problem but the ice came back. Last time cleaned out the ice buildup I checked the freezer defrost heater and it had continuity. The ice is back. Any suggestions? The seal seems to be fine around the drawer. I read other threads about a service notice and my model was listed by my S/N was not.
Model: WRF989SDAF02
S/N: K40907303

 

[Jake]

Only 3 parts control the defrost cycle, the defrost heater, defrost thermostat and main control board.

So since your defrost heater ohms good and you already replaced the evaporator fan motor that comes with the defrost thermostat, then the only part left is the main control board.

Here's the evaporator fan motor that comes with the defrost thermostat for your model:
Motor-Evap WPW10514110


Is that the one you replaced?

Here's the main control board for your model:
Control Board WPW10589837

 

[Maroon94]

Yes, that is the evaporator fan motor I replaced. Is it common for the control board to malfunction but only affect the defroster or is this board just for the defroster? How hard is it to replace?

 

[Maroon94]

Just found a video and it speaks to common issue with control board could be not going through automatic defrost cycle. Looks fairly simple to replace.

 

[Jake]

Is it common for the control board to malfunction but only affect the defroster

Yes. That board controls many other parts too, besides the defroster.

Yes, its fairly easy to replace.

This video gives you the general idea on how to do it:

 

[Maroon94]

Thank you! Very helpful!

 

[Jake]

Glad to help, let us know how it goes.

 

[Maroon94]

Well changing the control board doesn't seem to have fixed the problem. I can see ice starting to form at the back of the freezer. So unless the parts I used were defective I am at a loss as to what is causing my problem.

 

[Jake]

Yes, You may need to contact Whirlpool at 1-866-698-2538 and have a tech come out, the tech can call the factory on a special FACTORY HOTLINE tech number from your house, and the factory can get involved in investigating this issue, that board should have fixed it.

 

[Maroon94]

So something else that was happening but just assumed was part of my ice build up in the freezer is the ice maker is slow in making ice. It also seems to be making smaller ice at times and or melting in the bin. Does the ice maker symptoms some how point to a different part or resolution?

 

[Maroon94]

Keep in mind that my Ice Maker and bin is located in the upper refrigerator section. Icemaker on ceiling and bin in the door.

 

[Maroon94]

Its to the point that the melting ice is leaving a puddle.