Refrigerators installed in unheated spaces like garages face unique challenges, especially in colder climates. While most household refrigerators are designed for ambient temperatures around 68–72°F, garage conditions can drop significantly, often below 45°F or even near freezing. These conditions can cause the refrigerator’s internal thermostat to malfunction, leading to improper cooling and potential damage to the appliance. To address this issue, Electrolux and Frigidaire have developed a specialized garage refrigerator heater kit (Part No. 5303918301). This article provides a comprehensive overview of the kit, its purpose, installation process, and usage considerations, based on information from official installation guides and manufacturer documentation.
Purpose and Functionality of the Garage Refrigerator Heater Kit
The garage refrigerator heater kit is an essential accessory for top-mount Frigidaire and Electrolux refrigerators installed in cold environments. It works by warming the thermostat area within the control housing, effectively tricking the thermostat into thinking the ambient temperature inside the refrigerator is warmer than it actually is. This prompts the compressor to run more frequently, ensuring that the refrigerator and freezer compartments maintain stable temperatures despite the cold garage conditions.
According to the manufacturer documentation, the kit is specifically designed for top-freezer models and is not compatible with models manufactured before 2001 or those with electronic control boards. Additionally, the refrigerator must have a defrost timer and cold control for the heater kit to function properly.
The heater operates at a very low heat level and is installed inside the control housing, near the thermostat. It does not heat the entire refrigerator compartment but rather focuses on the area where the thermostat is located. This targeted heating allows the thermostat to function as intended in a controlled indoor climate, even in the colder garage setting.
When to Use the Garage Refrigerator Heater Kit
The heater kit is recommended for use in the following scenarios:
- Cold winter climates where garage temperatures frequently drop below 45°F. In these conditions, a standard refrigerator may struggle to maintain proper cooling.
- Need for additional storage space in the garage. A second refrigerator can be useful for storing extra food or beverages, but it must be equipped with a heater kit to function reliably.
- Observation of temperature issues, such as food freezing in the refrigerator compartment or inconsistent cooling. These symptoms may indicate that the refrigerator is not receiving enough internal heat to function correctly in a cold environment.
It is important to note that the heater kit is not a complete solution to cold garage conditions. While it significantly improves the refrigerator’s ability to maintain internal temperatures, it does not make the appliance immune to extreme cold. Users should still monitor the performance of their refrigerator and adjust settings as needed.
Installation Process
The installation of the Electrolux Frigidaire garage refrigerator heater kit requires basic electrical and mechanical tools. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide based on the instructions provided in the manufacturer documentation:
Tools Required
- 1/4-inch nut driver
- Phillips screwdriver
- External light source (for visibility in low-light conditions)
Safety Precautions
Before beginning installation, ensure that the refrigerator is completely unplugged from the power source. This is critical to prevent the risk of electric shock. Always follow standard electrical safety procedures when handling any appliance or electrical components.
Installation Steps
Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet. This is the first and most important step to ensure safety during the installation process.
Access the control housing. Remove the four hex screws securing the control housing—two at the front and two at the rear. Carefully lower the front of the control housing to expose the wire connector.
Disconnect the wire connector and pull the control housing down and forward to release the defrost drain spout from the back wall. Move the control housing to a convenient working area.
Remove the defrost timer mounting screws. Remove two screws that secure the defrost timer to the housing and place them in a safe location.
Prepare the heater pad. Remove the heater pad from the kit and bend it into a U-shape, as shown in the included instructions. Carefully peel off the backing, being sure not to let the heater pad fold back on itself.
Install the heater pad. Align the holes on the heater pad with the defrost timer mounting pegs. Press the heater pad firmly against the control box to ensure proper contact.
Reinstall the defrost timer. Set the defrost timer back into position and secure it with the mounting screws.
Reconnect the wiring. Unplug the two leads from the cold control. Reconnect the orange and black leads by matching the colors and plugging them back into the cold control.
Reinstall the control housing. Place the connector back into position and reinstall the control housing. Ensure that all connections are secure.
Reconnect the power. Plug the refrigerator back into the wall outlet. Allow several hours for the refrigerator to stabilize and maintain the desired temperature.
Adjust the settings. The heater kit is designed to work best when the refrigerator and freezer compartments are set to the mid-way position. You may need to make minor adjustments to achieve optimal performance.
Once installed, the heater kit will operate continuously at a low heat level, ensuring that the thermostat functions as intended in a controlled indoor environment. The kit does not need to be removed in warmer conditions and can remain installed year-round.
Performance and Maintenance Considerations
While the heater kit significantly improves the performance of a refrigerator in a cold garage, it is important to understand its limitations and maintenance requirements:
- Increased energy consumption: The refrigerator will run more frequently in cold weather, which may lead to higher energy usage compared to a standard indoor installation.
- Increased wear on components: The compressor and other internal systems may experience increased wear due to more frequent cycling during the winter months. However, the heater kit prevents extreme freezing, which is a more significant threat to the appliance.
- Temperature adjustments: Users may need to adjust the refrigerator and freezer temperature settings periodically to ensure optimal performance. The heater is designed to work best when the compartments are set to mid-range temperatures.
- No removal required: The heater kit does not need to be removed during warmer months and can remain installed permanently. It is designed to function effectively in both cold and moderate temperature conditions.
Compatibility and Limitations
The Electrolux Frigidaire garage refrigerator heater kit is not a universal solution and is only compatible with specific refrigerator models. According to the manufacturer documentation:
- It is only designed for top-freezer models.
- It is not compatible with models manufactured before 2001.
- It will not work on units with electronic control boards.
- The refrigerator must have a defrost timer and cold control for the heater kit to function properly.
Users should verify the compatibility of their refrigerator with the heater kit before purchasing. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult the manufacturer’s documentation or a qualified technician for confirmation.
Conclusion
The Electrolux Frigidaire garage refrigerator heater kit (Part No. 5303918301) is a valuable accessory for users who need to operate a refrigerator in an unheated garage, particularly in colder climates. By tricking the internal thermostat into thinking the environment is warmer, the kit enables the refrigerator to maintain proper cooling even in near-freezing conditions. While it is not a complete solution to cold garage challenges, it significantly improves the appliance’s performance and reliability.
Installation requires basic tools and electrical knowledge, and the process is outlined in detail in the manufacturer documentation. Users should follow all safety precautions and verify the compatibility of their refrigerator model before proceeding. Once installed, the heater kit operates continuously at a low heat level and does not need to be removed during warmer months.
For those seeking additional refrigerator space in a garage setting, the heater kit provides a practical and effective solution—albeit with some limitations regarding energy consumption and component wear. Proper installation and maintenance are essential to ensure long-term performance and avoid potential issues.