Quick Overview: This guide compares common replacement fridge defrost heaters, kits, sensors, and thermostats for GE, Samsung, Kenmore, and other major brands. Below is a summary table of the selected options to help you compare compatibility and form factor at a glance.
| Product | Type | Compatible Brands | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| AMI PARTS WR51X10055 Kit | Heater Kit (heater + sensor + thermostat) | GE, Hotpoint, Kenmore | Complete replacement kit |
| BlueStars WR51X10055 | Defrost Heater (metal shield) | GE, Hotpoint, Kenmore | Metal shield, 725W rating |
| FixlyFido SH201 Drain & Door Heater | Drain/door heater wire | Samsung and Most Brands | Aluminum braided element, 25″ length |
| SUMNEW WR51X10055 Kit | Heater Kit (heater + sensor + thermostat) | GE, Hotpoint, Kenmore | Complete set, OEM replacement numbers |
| ATMA SUPPLY DA47-00244U | Sheath-Type Defrost Heater | Samsung models | AC120V metal sheath design for Samsung |
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AMI PARTS WR51X10055 Refrigerator Defrost Heater Kit
This complete defrost kit includes the WR51X10055 heater, WR55X10025 temperature sensor, and WR50X10068 high-limit thermostat. The kit is listed as compatible with many GE, Hotpoint, and Kenmore models and replaces several OEM part numbers.
- Included Components: Heater, temperature sensor, defrost thermostat.
- Function: Heater melts ice; sensor reports coil temp to control board; thermostat cuts power once defrost temp is reached.
- Compatibility: Replaces WR51X10030, AP3183311, PS303781, and others per the listing.
- Use Case: Suited for a full defrost element replacement when both sensor and thermostat may also be worn.
BlueStars WR51X10055 Defrost Heater Replacement
The BlueStars WR51X10055 is a replacement defrost heater advertised with an enhanced metal shield and a high heat capability rating. It targets common frost buildup and defrost failure symptoms across multiple fridge brands.
- Construction: Metal shield for added durability and heat resistance.
- Performance: Marketed with a 725W capability to handle heavy frost melt cycles.
- Compatibility: Designed to replace AP3183311, 914088, AH303781, EA303781, PS303781, and WR51X10030 among others.
- Symptoms Addressed: Frost buildup, freezer not defrosting, uneven temperatures.
SH201 Drain And Door Heater For Samsung (FixlyFido)
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This drain and door heater wire focuses on preventing ice at the drain tube and top-of-evaporator areas. It is a narrower 25″ heater wire with a braided aluminum heating element suitable for Samsung and many other refrigerators.
- Dimensions & Power: 25″ long, 7/16″ diameter, 115V, 15W.
- Materials: Aluminum braided heating element for anti-freezing and temperature resistance.
- Included Accessories: Typically shipped with zip ties or mounting hardware (listing mentions 50 zip ties).
- Use Case: Best when icing is localized to drain/door areas rather than full evaporator coil freeze.
SUMNEW WR51X10055 Defrost Heater Replacement Kit
The SUMNEW kit mirrors OEM replacement numbers and contains the WR51X10055 heater, WR55X10025 sensor, and WR50X10068 thermostat. It emphasizes compatibility with a long list of replacement codes for GE series refrigerators.
- Package Contents: Heater, temperature sensor, defrost thermostat—complete set.
- Compatibility: Replaces WR51X10030, AP3183311, PS303781, 914088, and similar part numbers.
- Functionality: Intended to both melt ice and provide accurate temperature feedback and safety cutoff.
- Typical Application: Full repair of a non-defrosting evaporator assembly where multiple components may have failed.
ATMA SUPPLY DA47-00244U Defrost Heater For Samsung
The ATMA SUPPLY DA47-00244U is a sheath-style defrost heater specified for many Samsung refrigerator models. It operates on AC120V and is listed with explicit model fitment guidance for Samsung French-door and other series.
- Design: Metal sheath heater element aimed at OEM-style replacements.
- Compatibility: Fit list includes RF23HCEDBBC, RF23R6201DT, RF23R6301SR, RF260BEAEBC and more; not universal.
- Recommendation: Verify refrigerator model number before ordering to ensure fit.
- Use Case: Appropriate for direct OEM-like replacements on compatible Samsung models.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Fridge Defrost Heater
Selecting the correct defrost heater requires matching several technical and practical factors. The following considerations help ensure compatibility, safety, and long-term reliability.
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Compatibility And Part Numbers
Confirm Model And Part Numbers: Always check your refrigerator model number and existing part number(s). Many aftermarket options list the OEM replacement numbers they cover (e.g., WR51X10055, AP3183311, DA47-00244U). Exact matches reduce fitment and mounting issues.
Complete Kits Vs Single Heaters
Kits Include Sensor And Thermostat: Kits (heater + sensor + thermostat) are useful when multiple components may have degraded or when troubleshooting uncertain causes of defrost failure. Single-element replacements are suitable for isolated heater failures.
Heater Type And Construction
Sheath vs. Exposed Wire vs. Drain Wire: Sheath-type elements (metal tube) are common for OEM matches. Exposed wire heaters with shields or braided heaters are alternatives. Drain/door heaters are lower-power thin wires for localized anti-freeze protection. Choose the form matching your evaporator assembly.
Electrical Ratings And Safety
Voltage And Wattage: Verify AC voltage (commonly 115–120V) and wattage to match the system’s defrost cycle characteristics. Also ensure the thermostat/high-limit rating aligns with the heater to prevent unsafe operation.
Durability And Materials
Materials And Shielding: Metal-sheathed elements and metal-shielded wires can offer improved durability and resistance to physical damage. Braided aluminum elements are common for drain heaters where flexibility is needed.
Installation And Mounting
Mounting Points And Length: Confirm length, diameter, and terminal type. Some heaters require clips, tubes, or specific routing to sit properly against the evaporator coil. Replacement often requires partial disassembly of the freezer compartment.
Symptoms And Diagnostic Considerations
When To Replace Heater vs Other Parts: If the heater shows continuity failure on a multimeter, replacement is indicated. If heater shows continuity but frost persists, check the defrost timer, control board, sensor, or thermostat. Kits can address multiple failure points simultaneously.
Brand And Aftermarket Considerations
OEM Match vs Aftermarket: OEM-style parts simplify fitment. Aftermarket parts can offer improved shielding or cost benefits but verify return policies and warranty. For brand-specific models (Samsung, GE), confirm the seller’s compatibility verification options.
Multiple Comparison Perspectives
- Compatibility Perspective: Kits (AMI PARTS, SUMNEW) cover many OEM numbers; ATMA SUPPLY specializes in Samsung model fitment.
- Durability Perspective: Metal-sheathed and metal-shielded designs (BlueStars, ATMA SUPPLY) emphasize longevity under repeated defrost cycles.
- Targeted Repair Perspective: Drain/door heaters (FixlyFido) solve localized icing issues without replacing the entire evaporator heater.
- Value Perspective: Kits that include sensor and thermostat reduce the chance of subsequent failures if multiple components are aged.
Installation Tip: Disconnect power before servicing, verify continuity with a multimeter, and follow model-specific disassembly instructions or consult a technician for complex installations.
Tips for Getting the Best HVAC Prices
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