218657301 - Genuine OEM Frigidaire Refrigerator Defrost Heater

218657301 – Genuine OEM Frigidaire Refrigerator Defrost Heater
The 218657301 Genuine OEM Frigidaire Refrigerator Defrost Heater is an original manufacturer replacement part designed for compatible Frigidaire refrigerators and related brands. This genuine OEM defrost heater plays a critical role in the refrigerator's automatic defrost system by melting frost and ice that accumulate on the evaporator coils during normal operation. Appliance Kingdom supplies this authentic replacement part with fast Canada-wide shipping for homeowners, landlords, and professional appliance repair technicians.
A failing defrost heater is one of the most common causes of excessive frost buildup, restricted airflow, and cooling performance issues in refrigerators. Replacing a defective heater with a genuine OEM component helps restore proper defrost operation and maintain consistent temperatures throughout the appliance.
What Does the Refrigerator Defrost Heater Do?
The defrost heater is mounted near the evaporator coils and activates during the automatic defrost cycle. Its purpose is to melt frost and ice that naturally accumulate on the coils as the refrigerator operates.
Without proper defrosting, frost buildup can restrict airflow, reduce cooling efficiency, and eventually cause temperature problems in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. Genuine OEM specifications are important because the heater must provide the correct wattage, voltage, and heat output required by the manufacturer's defrost system design. The 218657301 heater is rated at approximately 550 watts and 115 volts.
Common Symptoms Indicating Replacement
A faulty refrigerator defrost heater may cause:
- Excessive frost or ice buildup on evaporator coils
- Refrigerator section becoming too warm
- Freezer temperatures becoming inconsistent
- Reduced airflow from freezer vents
- Refrigerator running longer than normal
- Cooling performance gradually declining
- Ice accumulation on the freezer's rear interior panel
- Frequent manual defrosting requirements
If testing confirms that the defrost heater has failed, replacing it often resolves frost-related cooling issues and restores proper automatic defrost operation. However, similar symptoms may also be caused by a faulty defrost thermostat, timer, sensor, or control board, so proper diagnosis is recommended.
Compatibility Guidance
This part is designed for use in compatible Frigidaire refrigerators and certain related brand models.
Before ordering:
- Verify your appliance model number.
- Confirm that part number 218657301 is listed for your specific refrigerator.
- Contact Appliance Kingdom if you need assistance confirming compatibility.
Model verification helps ensure proper fit and prevents unnecessary returns.
Replaces Part Numbers
The following replacement and superseded part numbers have been verified through authoritative appliance parts sources:
- 215751900
- 218169801
- AP2114859
- 451561
- AH428386
- EA428386
- EAP428386
- PS428386
Key Features & Benefits
- Genuine OEM Frigidaire replacement part
- Designed to original factory specifications
- Approximately 550-watt, 115-volt heating element
- Helps maintain proper automatic defrost operation
- Restores airflow and cooling efficiency
- Durable construction for long-term reliability
- Precision fit for compatible refrigerator models
- Suitable for homeowners, landlords, maintenance teams, and appliance service professionals
- Meets manufacturer performance standards
Installation Overview
Replacing a refrigerator defrost heater typically requires access to the evaporator compartment behind the freezer panel.
Installation difficulty is generally considered moderate. Experienced DIY users who are comfortable working with appliance electrical components may be able to perform the repair successfully. Always disconnect power before beginning service.
Because the repair involves disassembly of freezer components and electrical connections, professional installation may be preferred for some users.
Canada-Wide Availability & Trusted Canadian Supplier
Appliance Kingdom provides genuine OEM and high-quality replacement appliance parts to customers across Canada. Orders ship from Canada, helping reduce delivery times while supporting homeowners and appliance repair professionals nationwide.
Whether you're restoring cooling performance in a household refrigerator or servicing rental properties, Appliance Kingdom offers dependable replacement parts backed by knowledgeable customer support.
Buyer Confidence & Quality Assurance
When you purchase the 218657301 Genuine OEM Frigidaire Refrigerator Defrost Heater, you receive:
- Genuine OEM manufacturer quality
- Factory-specified fit and performance
- Reliable defrost system operation
- Long-lasting durability
- Canadian supplier support
- Assistance with compatibility verification before purchase
Choosing a genuine OEM heater helps ensure proper defrost performance and minimizes the risk associated with lower-quality aftermarket alternatives. Industry repair professionals commonly recommend OEM heating components for critical refrigeration system repairs.