[glaviolette]

My first problem was that the freezer was super cold and the refrigerator was quite warm. After defrosting the freezer manually it had returned to "normal" operation. I'm suspicious that the build on the evaporator up was from the drawer being left open for some time as there was also a buildup of frost around the edges and the top lip of the drawer. Anyways, from what I've read I guess I'll have to wait a week or so and see if the problem returns...

In the meantime I'd thought I would research the problem ahead of time just in case it occurs again. My understanding is it could be the element or the timer/control board? Does this model have a control board? I'm assuming so since it's Energy Star, however I can't find it in the parts diagram..

Maytag PBF2255HEW Parts List

Any other suggestions on how to test/isolate components would be helpful.

Thanks!

-g

[PS Staff - Sheila]

Yes you will have to wait to see if the problem returns.

Here is a link to your fridge model number pbf2255hew.

This will show you were in your fridge the parts are located.

[glaviolette]

Originally Posted by PS Staff - Sheila

Yes you will have to wait to see if the problem returns.

Well it didn't take long for the problem to return... :P

The cold air from the vent in the fridge kept getting weaker as the week went on, also whenever I happened to open the freezer I looked at the vents near the back and kept watching the ice continuing to form on the evaporator.

During this time I noticed times where the compressor seemed to be running but the fan below in the freezer area wasn't running and it obviously wasn't defrosting, not sure if that's relevant... Plus the ice I had seen forming around the freezer door in the past that I thought was because the door may have been left ajar has returned, and the freezer has returned to being SUPER cold.

I'm pretty handy, and I've got my Fluke! What should I test to help narrow down what the problem is? How can I force a defrost cycle?

HELP!

Thanks,

-g

[PS Staff - Sheila]

Remove the kick plate under the drawer. There should be a plastic bag stuck to the bottom of the fridge with some test paper.

Follow the instruction on how to put the fridge in to a forced defrost cycle.