Fridge/Freezer Element

Replacement defrost heater elements for fridges and freezers. Fisher & Paykel, Samsung, LG, Bosch, Electrolux, and Westinghouse defrost elements for a range of models. Most orders go out same day from our Palmerston North warehouse.

Defrost elements are model specific and must be an exact match. The wattage, length, and connector type all vary between models. Check your model number and the element part number before ordering. Send us a photo of the existing element and your fridge model number if you are not sure.

How to find the right fridge defrost element

A fridge defrost element is a heating wire that sits behind the back panel of the freezer compartment. It melts frost off the evaporator coil during the defrost cycle. Getting the wrong wattage or length means the defrost cycle either under-performs or overheats.

Before you order, check three things:

Your fridge model number. It is on a sticker inside the fridge on the left wall near the top. Write it down in full. Fisher & Paykel models start with E, RF, or RS. Samsung starts with RF, RB, or SRS. LG starts with GR or GF.

The element part number if visible. The existing element usually has a part number on its connector or housing. Fisher & Paykel elements often end in P, such as 821727P or 821730P. If you can read the number, match that directly to the product listing.

The product listing compatibility. Every listing states which fridge models it fits. Match your full model number to that list before adding to cart.

Send us a clear photo of the existing element, the connector, and your fridge model number. We'll confirm the right replacement before you spend anything.

Signs your fridge defrost element needs replacing

A failed defrost element usually leads to frost buildup on the evaporator coil. Watch for these:

  • Heavy frost or ice building up on the back wall of the freezer compartment

  • The fridge section is not cooling properly even though the freezer feels cold

  • The fridge runs continuously but temperature in the fridge compartment keeps rising

  • A crackling or ticking sound from behind the freezer back panel

  • A qualified technician has confirmed the defrost element is open circuit

If you see heavy frost on the back panel, the defrost element is the first thing to check.

Fitting a fridge defrost element

Defrost element replacement involves removing the freezer back panel to access the evaporator coil. The old element is unclipped or unscrewed from the coil assembly, disconnected from the wiring harness, and the new one connects in its place.

Safety Note

Defrost elements are mains-connected electrical components. Always unplug the fridge before opening the back panel. Element replacement must be carried out by a sparky.

Related fridge parts

Fridge defrost element FAQ

How do I know if my fridge has a defrost element fault?

Heavy frost on the back panel of the freezer compartment combined with the fridge section warming up is the main indicator. A sparky can test the element with a multimeter to confirm it is open circuit before you order a replacement.

What is a fridge defrost element and what does it do?

It is a heating wire that wraps around the evaporator coil at the back of the freezer compartment. During the automatic defrost cycle it heats up briefly to melt accumulated frost off the coil, keeping airflow clear.

Can I manually defrost the fridge instead of replacing the element?

You can defrost the fridge manually to temporarily restore cooling, but the frost will come back if the element is faulty. Manual defrost is a short-term fix only.

Do I need a sparky to replace a fridge defrost element?

Yes. The element connects to the mains supply and is behind a sealed panel inside the freezer compartment. It must be replaced by a sparky.

My fridge model is older. Can I still get a defrost element for it?

Often yes. We stock defrost elements for a wide range of Fisher & Paykel, Samsung, LG, Bosch, and Westinghouse models. Email us your model number and we'll check availability.