SH502 - Universal Supco Refrigerator Drain Heater

SH502 – Supco Universal Refrigerator Drain Heater (15W, 120V)

The SH502 – Universal Supco Refrigerator Drain Heater is a high-performance refrigeration drain line heating element designed to prevent ice buildup in refrigerator and freezer drain systems. This is a non-OEM, high-quality universal replacement part by Supco, engineered for commercial and domestic refrigeration applications. Available through Appliance Kingdom with Canada-wide shipping from Edmonton, AB, it is commonly used by appliance technicians and homeowners to resolve drain freezing and water leakage issues in refrigerators.

Function & Importance of the Drain Heater in Refrigeration Systems

The SH502 drain heater is installed near the refrigerator’s drain line to gently supply continuous low-watt heat, ensuring that defrost water flows freely into the drain pan instead of freezing inside the tube.

In refrigeration systems, especially frost-free refrigerators, periodic defrost cycles produce water that must drain properly. When the drain line freezes, it causes water backup, ice buildup inside the freezer, and potential leaks into the refrigerator compartment or floor. The SH502 prevents this by maintaining a consistent temperature along the drain path.

Correct performance and wattage (120V, 15W) are critical because insufficient heating leads to freezing, while excessive heat could damage plastic components or insulation.

Common Symptoms of a Faulty or Missing Drain Heater

A failing or absent drain heater can cause several refrigerator issues, including:

• Water leaking inside the fridge or freezer compartment
• Ice buildup at the bottom of the freezer section
• Blocked or frozen defrost drain line
• Water pooling under crispers or drawers
• Excess frost formation around evaporator or drain area
• Refrigerator running normally but leaving water after defrost cycles
• Repeated ice block formation in the drain channel

These symptoms often indicate a frozen drain system, and replacing the drain heater is a common and effective repair solution when confirmed as the root cause.

Compatibility Guidance (Important)

This is a universal refrigerator drain heater designed for refrigeration applications, not limited to a single brand.

Before ordering:

• Confirm your refrigerator uses a drain heater in the defrost drain system
• Verify required length, wattage, and voltage (120V / 15W)
• Ensure proper placement space is available for installation
• Check appliance model number for compatibility with universal drain heater installation

Key Features & Benefits

• Universal Supco SH502 drain heater for refrigeration systems
• 120V / 15W low-watt continuous operation
• Designed to prevent ice blockages in drain lines
• Durable silicone construction with metal braid protection
• 13-inch heating length with flexible leads for installation
• Water-resistant design suitable for drain environments
• Reliable performance in commercial and residential refrigerators
• Helps reduce service calls related to water leaks and ice buildup

Installation Overview

Installation is typically moderate difficulty and performed inside the freezer compartment near the evaporator drain area.

Basic installation steps include:

• Disconnecting refrigerator power
• Accessing the evaporator drain area
• Positioning the heater along or inside the drain tube path
• Securing it properly without cutting, splicing, or modifying the unit
• Reassembling panels and restoring power

Professional installation is recommended if the drain system is difficult to access or if defrost system diagnostics are required.

Canada-Wide Availability & Supplier Trust

Appliance Kingdom supplies appliance repair parts across Canada, supporting homeowners, landlords, and certified technicians. The SH502 Supco Drain Heater ships quickly nationwide from Canada, ensuring reliable availability for urgent refrigeration repairs.

All parts are sourced for performance reliability and compatibility with Canadian appliance repair standards.

Buyer Confidence & Assurance

• Trusted Supco engineered replacement solution
• Proven performance in resolving frozen drain line issues
• Designed for continuous-duty refrigeration environments
• Supported by Appliance Kingdom customer assistance for part verification
• Fast Canada-wide shipping for repair convenience