Skip to content
Free Shipping $49+
Factory Direct No Middleman
30-Day Returns
24/7 1-800-HEIMA-00
Track Order Install Videos FAQ Contact
Heima
Account
Cart
Shop All Parts Repair Guides Install Videos Brands About FAQ Contact ⚡ Clearance
Home/Refrigerator & Freezer Parts/Defrost Thermostat/297216600
On Sale
297216600 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Frigidaire Kenmore Gibson Kelvinator, Replaces AP4374171 PS2350702 1483781 216731000 218673001
  • 297216600 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Frigidaire Kenmore Gibson Kelvinator, Replaces AP4374171 PS2350702 1483781 216731000 218673001
  • 297216600 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Frigidaire Kenmore Gibson Kelvinator, Replaces AP4374171 PS2350702 1483781 216731000 218673001
  • 297216600 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Frigidaire Kenmore Gibson Kelvinator, Replaces AP4374171 PS2350702 1483781 216731000 218673001
  • 297216600 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Frigidaire Kenmore Gibson Kelvinator, Replaces AP4374171 PS2350702 1483781 216731000 218673001
  • 297216600 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Frigidaire Kenmore Gibson Kelvinator, Replaces AP4374171 PS2350702 1483781 216731000 218673001
Factory Certified
Free Ship $49+
30-Day Returns
1-Year Warranty
Compatible Brands
Compatible Models
Showing 72 compatible models
Aftermarket Replacement · Factory Direct
OEM-compatible part built to original specifications. Not manufactured by or affiliated with the original equipment brand.

297216600 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Frigidaire Kenmore Gibson Kelvinator, Replaces AP4374171 PS2350702 1483781 216731000 218673001

SKU: 297216600
OEM RetailBranded
$29.87
Via distributor
Source: PartSelect.com · Mar 2026
OEM brand & packaging
Factory direct price
1-year warranty
Our PartBest Value
$19.99
Factory direct
OEM-Compatible
Meets OEM specifications
Factory direct price
1-year warranty
Save by going factory direct
OEM-compatible · no distributor markup
$9.88
33% less than OEM retail
Order within --:-- to ship today
Repair Time15-30 Minutes
DifficultyEasy
DIY FriendlyYes
Tools Needed
Phillips ScrewdriverMultimeterWork Gloves
Qty
Ships from China · 10–20 business days
No sales tax outside CA
or
297216600 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Frigidaire Kenmore Gibson Kelvinator, Replaces AP4374171 PS2350702 1483781 216731000 218673001
$26.99 Original price was: $26.99.$19.99Current price is: $19.99.
In Stock

This Part Fixes These Problems

Frost Buildup on Evaporator Coils

When the defrost thermostat fails open, the defrost heater never activates and ice accumulates heavily on the evaporator coils, restricting airflow and cooling.

Freezer or Fridge Too Warm

A faulty thermostat prevents the defrost cycle from completing, causing ice-blocked coils that reduce cooling efficiency and raise internal temperatures.

Appliance Runs Continuously

If the thermostat fails shorted, the defrost heater may run non-stop or the compressor may never shut off, causing the unit to run too long without reaching set temperature.

Refrigerator Too Cold / Food Freezing

An out-of-spec thermostat can disrupt the defrost cycle timing, causing erratic temperature swings that may freeze fresh food compartment contents.

Repair Guides

OEM vs Aftermarket Defrost Thermostat for Frigidaire: Honest Comparison (297216600)
May 30, 2026
How to Extend Your Frigidaire Defrost Thermostat Life — Maintenance Guide
May 26, 2026
Frigidaire Freezer Running Constantly & Not Defrosting — 5 Causes & How to Fix
May 25, 2026
Frigidaire Refrigerator Defrost Thermostat Parts — Models & Compatibility
May 25, 2026

Product Description

Why Choose Our 297216600 Defrost Thermostat?

🔧
Built to OEM SpecificationsPlastic body construction with 4-inch terminal on white lead and 6-inch terminal on red lead — identical wire length and connector configuration to the original Frigidaire part.
🌡️
Precise Temperature SensingMonitors evaporator coil temperature and allows power to flow to the defrost heater when coils drop below set threshold — maintaining accurate L42-21F bimetal response for consistent defrost cycles.
🏠
Wide Cross-Brand CompatibilityFits Frigidaire, Kenmore, Gibson, Kelvinator, Electrolux, Tappan, Westinghouse, Crosley, and Uni refrigerator and freezer models — one part covers a broad range of popular brands.
⚡
Easy Plug-and-Play InstallPolarity-independent pass-through design — wire color differences between old and new unit do not matter; either lead connects to either terminal for a hassle-free swap in 15–30 minutes.
💰
Save vs. OEM PriceOEM reference price from PartSelect.com is $29.87. Our aftermarket equivalent delivers the same fit and function at a lower cost — no service call required.
📎
Includes Mounting ClipComes with an integrated mounting clip for secure attachment directly to the evaporator coil — no additional hardware needed for installation.

💡 Pro Tip: How to Diagnose a Failed Defrost Thermostat

Your part is likely the culprit if you notice any of the following:

⚠️ Freezer or refrigerator is too warm despite the compressor running

⚠️ Heavy frost or ice buildup on the evaporator coils in the freezer section

⚠️ Appliance runs continuously and never shuts off

⚠️ Food in the refrigerator compartment is freezing unexpectedly

🔍 Diagnostic Tip: Remove the thermostat and test with a multimeter. At room temperature (68°F) the sensor should read approximately 6.2 kΩ. Submerged in ice water (~32°F) it should read approximately 16.3 kΩ. No continuity at room temperature means the thermostat has failed and must be replaced.

📦 What's in the Box

✅ 1× Defrost Thermostat 297216600 (plastic housing, 4-in white lead / 6-in red lead, mounting clip included)

Questions & Answers

Will this thermostat work even if my old unit has orange and red wires instead of white and red?
Answered by Support Team  ·  Mar 15, 2024
Yes, absolutely. The 297216600 defrost thermostat is a pass-through part — it functions like a simple switch and has no polarity. It does not matter which wire connects to which terminal. Simply connect one lead to each terminal and the part will work correctly regardless of wire color.
How do I know if the defrost thermostat is actually bad before ordering?
Answered by Support Team  ·  Nov 20, 2023
The easiest test is to use a multimeter set to resistance (Ohms). Remove the thermostat from the evaporator coil. At room temperature (68°F), you should read approximately 6.2 kΩ. If you submerge the sensing bulb in ice water (~32°F), the reading should rise to approximately 16.3 kΩ. If you read OL (open/no continuity) at room temperature, the thermostat has failed and needs replacement.
Does part 297216600 fit both refrigerator and upright freezer models?
Answered by Support Team  ·  Jan 8, 2025
Yes. The 297216600 defrost thermostat is designed for both refrigerators and upright freezers across compatible brands including Frigidaire, Kenmore, Gibson, Kelvinator, Electrolux, Tappan, Westinghouse, and Crosley. Always verify your full model number before ordering to confirm fitment.
What is the installation difficulty and how long does it take?
Answered by Support Team  ·  Jul 22, 2024
This is a beginner-friendly DIY repair rated Easy. Most homeowners complete the job in 15–30 minutes using only a Phillips screwdriver. You remove the freezer back panel, unclip the old thermostat, plug in the new one, and reassemble. No soldering or splicing is required — the connectors are bullet-style plug-in terminals.
My freezer is iced over completely — will replacing just the defrost thermostat fix it?
Answered by Support Team  ·  Feb 10, 2026
A severely iced-over evaporator usually points to a failed defrost thermostat, but the defrost heater (218657301) and defrost timer/control board should also be tested. Use a multimeter to check continuity on both the thermostat and heater — whichever reads open (no continuity) is the failed component. In many cases replacing the thermostat alone fully resolves the issue, but it's worth testing all three defrost system components while you have the panel off.

We typically respond within 1 business day. Include your appliance model number for the fastest answer.




    Customer Reviews

    Reviews

    There are no reviews yet.

    Be the first to review "297216600" Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Related Parts

    67003426 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Whirlpool Maytag KitchenAid Amana Kenmore, Replaces WP67003426 8208287 12639302 AP6010356
    67003426
    67003426 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Whirlpool Maytag KitchenAid Amana Kenmore, Replaces WP67003426 8208287 12639302 AP6010356
    $49.99 Original price was: $49.99.$32.99Current price is: $32.99.
    WB13X27058 Range Surface Burner Spark Igniter Compatible with GE Hotpoint Kenmore Gas Range Cooktop, Replaces AP6004805 PS11736298 WB13T10044 WB13K10006 WB13T10010
    WB13X27058
    WB13X27058 Range Surface Burner Spark Igniter Compatible with GE Hotpoint Kenmore Gas Range Cooktop, Replaces AP6004805 PS11736298 WB13T10044 WB13K10006 WB13T10010
    W10913953 Shift Actuator 6-Pin Compatible with Whirlpool Maytag Kenmore Amana, Replaces AP6037270 W10815026 PS11769864 W10597177
    W10913953
    W10913953 Shift Actuator 6-Pin Compatible with Whirlpool Maytag Kenmore Amana, Replaces AP6037270 W10815026 PS11769864 W10597177
    $70.99 Original price was: $70.99.$47.99Current price is: $47.99.
    W10861225 Dryer Door Handle Compatible with Whirlpool Maytag Kenmore Amana Crosley WED MGD NED NGD MEDC MGDC MEDX Dryer, Replaces AP5999398 PS11731583 W10714516 4380739 EAP11731583 AH11731583 W10861225VP
    W10861225
    W10861225 Dryer Door Handle Compatible with Whirlpool Maytag Kenmore Amana Crosley WED MGD NED NGD MEDC MGDC MEDX Dryer, Replaces AP5999398 PS11731583 W10714516 4380739 EAP11731583 AH11731583 W10861225VP

    Disclaimer: Compatibility information, part numbers, and model fitment data on this page are sourced from manufacturer databases and third-party references. While we strive for accuracy, please verify your appliance model number before ordering. Heima is not responsible for errors or omissions in compatibility listings.

    Home / Refrigerator & Freezer Parts / Defrost Thermostat / 297216600 Defrost Thermostat Compatible with Frigidaire Kenmore Gibson Kelvinator, Replaces AP4374171 PS2350702 1483781 216731000 218673001
    H
    heima

    Heima manufactures appliance parts in our own facilities and ships direct — no distributor, no markup. 200+ brands, 1.8M+ parts, 500K+ satisfied customers.

    Shop Parts
    Refrigerator Washer & Dryer Oven & Range Dishwasher AC & HVAC All Categories
    Support
    Find Your Model Number Installation Videos Live Chat Track My Order Start a Return FAQ
    Company
    About Heima Our Factory Quality Standards Return Policy Privacy Policy Contact Us
    © 2025 Heima Parts  ·  Factory Direct Appliance Parts  ·  All Rights Reserved
    VISA MC AMEX PayPal Discover