Refrigerator - Automatic Defrost System

All full-sized Refrigerators today use an automatic defrost system. If you see "Frost-Free" in the description for a model, that's automatic defrost. Automatic defrost saves you time and energy by eliminating the need to manually defrost the freezer or fresh food compartments. It defrosts by melting frost that accumulates on the evaporator during the normal cooling process.

About Automatic Defrost

During the automatic defrost cycle, a defrost heater comes on. Heat rises up from the defrost heater to melt any frost or ice on the evaporator coils for a set amount of time. The length of time varies by model; however, it is usually between 25 - 45 minutes. The compressor does not run, and there are no fans running during the defrost cycle. This process does not cause food to thaw; it is only designed to eliminate any frost build-up on the evaporator.As it is defrosting, the frost or ice melts to water and drains down into the drain pan located underneath the condenser. The heat created by the condenser evaporates the water, so there is nothing you need to empty or maintain.Refrigerators use either a Timed Defrost or an Adaptive Defrost, depending on the model, to determine when to start the defrost cycle.

Timed Defrost

The automatic defrost cycle is programmed to start every 8-15 hours, depending on the model. It lasts for approximately 25 minutes, but can be up to 45 minutes.

Adaptive Defrost

The Refrigerator uses an algorithm to factor in compressor run time and door openings to determine when to defrost. This is more energy efficient, since it is not defrosting more than is necessary. For more information, please check out our Refrigerator - Frost Guard / Adaptive Defrost article.

Support

If you're experiencing heavy frost build-up or ice accumulation or the Refrigerator is defrosting too often, a technician will need to check the Refrigerator. If a diagnosis and repair is needed, you can schedule an appointment with GE Appliances Factory Service.