This refrigerator defrost safety thermostat, commonly referred to as a bi-metal thermostat, is a critical protective component that monitors the temperature of the evaporator coils during the defrost cycle. It acts as a safety limit by interrupting power to the defrost heater if the evaporator reaches an unsafe temperature, helping prevent overheating and potential damage within the freezer compartment. By regulating the defrost process, it supports efficient frost removal while maintaining consistent cooling performance throughout the appliance. When this thermostat fails, symptoms may include excessive frost buildup on the evaporator, a warm refrigerator section with a cold freezer, or a unit that runs continuously without reaching the set temperature. Replacing a faulty defrost safety thermostat helps restore proper defrost operation, protect stored food, and maintain reliable refrigerator performance.
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Troubleshooting
This part fixes the following symptoms:
Fridge too warm
This part works with the following products:
Refrigerator.
This part works with the following products:
Frigidaire, Electrolux, Kenmore, Crosley.
Part# 5304521781 replaces these:
5304520990, 808062701, 80862701
Questions and Answers
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6 questions answered by our experts.
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Kenneth
January 17, 2023
My fridge is not keeping cool in the fridge section however the freezer is cold. The ice maker is in the fridge section (behind left door). In looking around it appears that the likely issue is a defrost thermostat such as this item: FRIGIDAIRE 55-5304521781. I have found the one that is located way in the back of the freezer section. My question is - is there a second one of these behind the ice maker? Some of the videos I have seen show this behind the ice maker but I was not sure if that is just for a different model.
For model number fghf2366pfba
Hello Kenneth, We are glad you asked! Yes, there are others. One called Ice Maker Defrost Thermostat PS12114528 and a thermistor PS10060553. We are pleased to have been able to help.
my frig is freezing my food and sodas . temp is 28 degrees inside. the temp is set at 47 degrees .
For model number FGHD2368TF1
Hi Lisa, thank you for reaching out. We would recommend checking the temperature sensor, part number PS1765215, to fix the issue. We hope this solves your problem!
fan works
freezer works
ice maker works
but... refrigerator area is 55 degrees
For model number DGHF2360PF4A
Hi Terrance, thank you for the question. We would suggest checking the temperature sensor, part number PS1765215. You may need to replace it to fix the issue. We hope this sorts out your problem!
Freezer keeps icing over and fridge wont stay cool. If I unplug and let thaw then plug back in, it’s good for about 3 days before slowly getting warm again as it freezes up behind the back freezer panel . Just changed the defrost heater literally a couple days ago.
For model number LGHB2869TF1
Hi Tessa, thank you for reaching out. As you have already replaced the defrost heater, the issue could be with the defrost thermostat, part number PS12729016. You may need to replace it to fix the issue. We hope this sorts out your problem!
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Troy
September 27, 2025
Freezer is 0°F. Refrigerator is 55°F. Both of the ice machines work. Not getting any cold air from the freezer into the refrigerator. Do you think this would be a defrost or problem or thermostat? If so, can you attach all parts I would need to replace?
For model number LGHD2369TF7
Hi Troy, thank you for getting in touch. We would suggest checking the temperature sensor, part number PS17647917, first. If it is fine, the issue could be with the evaporator fan motor, part number PS16544514. It circulates cold air from the freezer into the fridge. We hope this sorts out your problem!
where is the Temp. sensor located in my Kenmore that controls the refrig. compartment. Thanks
For model number 25370443416
Hi Bob, thank you for reaching out. The temperature sensor in your model is located inside the fresh food compartment on the rear wall under the cover box. We hope this helps.
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