[OFAN]

I am trying to get a new timer, but I am in Germany and it is taking a long time to get. In the mean-time, can I somehow bypass the timer or keep turning the screw on the timer to make it work so we can use the refrigerator until my timer gets here? Thanks.
OFAN

[kayakcrzy]

Let me ask you this, when you turn the screw on the timer, does the refrigerator work? Let me know, so I can further advise. You can reach me at my web site at ApplianceEducator.com Tom

[woodchuck]

You can turn the timer till it shuts unit off and starts defrost cycle. If the timer is not advancing let it defrost about 20 minutes and then turn it till unit starts back up. Some units defrost every eight hours some 10. Watch your ice buildup if you can to determine how often you need to do it.

[denman]

You should not bypass the defrost timer. The coils will ice up after 2 to 3 days depending on fridge usage and will no longer work

You would be better off forcing the unit into a defrost cycle using the timer screw
Usually a 20 to 30 minute defrost occurs every 8 hours but you should be able to get away with less than this

I would remove the coil cover screws so it is easy to check the coils
Let it run for a day
Check the coils, if iced up force it into defrost
NOTE: put the cover back when not checking the coils otherwise your air flows will be messed up
Let it run for 20 minutes
Recheck your coils
If clear you are OK for another 24 hours. turn timer into refrigeration mode.

May even be able to stretch this out to 2 or 3 days depending on how often the door is opened

[OFAN]

Yes, the compressor and fan work when I turn the screw on the timer. Thanks.