855385P Genuine Defrost Heater Kit 240V for Fisher & Paykel N150 N210 Frost Free Fridges, F&P Frost Free Defrost Element

This genuine Fisher & Paykel defrost heater kit, 855385P, is a 240V heater for frost free (FF) models, with F&P's description naming the N150 and N210. It melts frost off the evaporator during each defrost cycle. Your full model code will carry extra letters after N150 or N210, so check it on the fridge's label and look for 855385P in the parts breakdown before ordering.

Frost free fridge icing up? Check the defrost heater

A frost free fridge keeps its evaporator clear by switching on a defrost heater at set intervals. If the heater fails, ice builds up on the evaporator coil until air can no longer pass through. The freezer may still be cold at first, but the fridge section slowly warms, the fan may get noisy as it hits ice, and you might see a thick layer of frost behind the rear panel. A heater can be tested for continuity with a multimeter, but the defrost timer, thermostat or control should be checked as well.

Part details

• Genuine Fisher & Paykel part 855385P
• Defrost heater kit for frost free fridges
• 240V
• Named in F&P's description for N150 and N210

Fitting the defrost heater

Unplug the fridge first. On frost free models the heater usually sits with the evaporator behind the freezer's rear panel, so empty the freezer and let any ice melt before removing the panel. Photograph the wiring and how the heater is clipped to the coil. Fit the new kit in the same position without damaging the evaporator tubing. A refrigeration technician can do this if you're not confident.

Questions about this part

My fridge is iced up behind the back panel. Is it the heater?

It's a common cause, but not the only one. A failed defrost thermostat, timer or control can stop the heater coming on. Test the heater with a multimeter, or have a technician diagnose the fault, before ordering.