Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code Er dH — Defrost Heater Circuit Fault
What this means
The Er dH error code on Kenmore refrigerators indicates the defrost heater circuit has failed. During automatic defrost cycles, the heater warms the evaporator coils to melt frost buildup. If the heater fails, ice will accumulate on the coils, blocking airflow and causing the refrigerator to lose cooling ability over time. You may notice the freezer getting less cold or frost buildup on the rear wall.
Alternate codes: Er DH
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsCheck for frost buildup
Open the freezer and look at the rear wall. If you see a thick layer of frost or ice, the defrost system has likely not been working for a while. This confirms the defrost heater issue.
If the evaporator is completely iced over, you may need to manually defrost the freezer by unplugging it for 24 hours before making repairs.
Access the evaporator and defrost heater
Remove the freezer shelves, drawers, and the rear panel inside the freezer (held by screws). Behind this panel are the evaporator coils and the defrost heater. If everything is covered in ice, use a hair dryer to carefully melt the ice.
Place towels at the bottom of the freezer to catch meltwater. Never use a sharp object to chip ice — you can puncture the evaporator.
Test the defrost heater
Unplug the refrigerator. Locate the defrost heater — it's a glass tube or wire element running along the evaporator coils. Disconnect the wires and test for continuity with a multimeter. A good heater will show a measurable resistance (typically 20–40 ohms). An open reading means the heater is burned out.
Handle glass tube heaters carefully — they are fragile and can shatter if dropped.
Replace the defrost heater
Remove the mounting clips holding the heater to the evaporator coils. Install the new heater in the same position, secure the clips, and reconnect the wires. Reassemble the rear panel, shelves, and drawers.
Also test the defrost thermostat (bi-metal) and defrost timer/board while you have the panel off — these components work together and a failure in any one can mimic the others.
When to call a professional
If the heater tests good, the defrost thermostat, defrost timer, or the adaptive defrost control board may be at fault. A technician can test the entire defrost circuit systematically.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
Learn more about our sourcesParts you may need
Defrost Heater Assembly
Part #WR51X10055 · $20–$45
Required if heater fails continuity testing
Defrost Thermostat (Bi-Metal)
Part #WR50X10068 · $8–$18
Recommended to test and replace if borderline
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