Fridge Defrost Heater: Estimated Price & Replacement Labour Cost
What It Does
The defrost heater is an electric heating element wrapped around or positioned near the evaporator coils. It activates during the defrost cycle to melt any frost that has accumulated on the coils, keeping airflow efficient.
Signs It Has Failed
- Heavy frost or ice buildup on evaporator coils
- Fridge not cooling properly despite compressor running
- Defrost cycle runs but frost does not clear
Estimated Part Price
- Budget/generic: €10–€25
- OEM: €25–€70
Estimated Labour Cost
- 45–90 minutes of work (requires removing interior panels)
- Labour charge: €50–€110
- Total repair estimate: €60–€180
DIY Difficulty
Moderate. Reaching the heater requires disassembling interior freezer panels. Straightforward once accessed, but time-consuming. Always unplug the appliance before beginning.