Refrigerator Thermostat Assembly WP2198202 – What This Part Fixes and How to Replace It
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Understanding the Problem
What WP2198202 is and why it matters: WP2198202 is the temperature control (thermostat) assembly used on many Whirlpool/Maytag/Kenmore refrigerators. The thermostat senses cabinet temperature and opens/closes electrical contacts to control the compressor and sometimes the evaporator fan. When it fails you’ll often lose consistent cooling (too warm, too cold, or compressor runs constantly or not at all). Step-by-step diagnostic and repair instructions: 1) Verify the symptom: confirm whether the refrigerator is too warm, too cold, cycling continuously, not cooling at all, or not responding to the temperature knob. Note whether both fresh food and freezer compartments are affected. 2) Basic electrical check: unplug the fridge, remove the temperature control knob and panel, and visually inspect the thermostat for burned or melted terminals, corrosion, or a cracked housing. 3) Continuity test: with power removed, disconnect the thermostat wiring harness and use a multimeter on continuity/ohms. Rotate the temperature control knob from min to max—continuity should change (switch should open/close) as you turn the knob. If it never changes or shows infinite resistance when it should be closed, the thermostat is bad. 4) Functional test under power (advanced): if you are comfortable and experienced, with fridge powered and safety precautions taken, you can probe the thermostat harness to confirm it is sending power to the compressor circuit when set to call for cooling. If it does not, thermostat likely faulty. 5) Rule out other causes: if the thermostat tests good, check start device/relay and overload on the compressor, compressor condition, evaporator fan operation, evaporator frost pattern (possible defrost failure), and thermistors/PCB if your model uses electronic sensing. A stuck closed thermostat will show a continuously running compressor—confirm compressor and relay health before replacing the thermostat. 6) Replace the thermostat (how-to): a) Unplug the refrigerator. Remove food and shelves as needed to access the control housing (usually at the top rear of the fresh food compartment). b) Remove the temperature control knob and the screws holding the control housing. Carefully pull the housing forward to expose the thermostat assembly and wiring. c) Photograph the wiring and/or label each wire to ensure correct reconnection. Disconnect the wiring harness and any mounting screws or clips holding the thermostat in place. d) If your thermostat has a capillary bulb/sensing tube, avoid kinking or crimping it. Remove the old thermostat and install the new WP2198202 in the same orientation and routing. e) Reattach screws, reconnect the wiring harness exactly as removed, reassemble the control housing, and replace the knob. f) Plug the refrigerator back in, set the thermostat to the recommended setting, and allow 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize. Monitor compressor cycling and compartment temps. Safety note: always unplug the appliance before doing electrical tests or replacements. If you are not comfortable working with appliance wiring or testing live circuits, hire a qualified technician.
Common Symptoms
Fridge too warm or too cold, temperature knob has no effect, compressor runs continuously or never starts, or intermittent cooling.
Common Causes
- Internal electrical contacts have failed (stuck open or closed)
- Corroded/burned terminals or wiring at the control assembly
- Mechanical damage or failure of the sensing element (or capillary bulb) causing incorrect temperature sensing
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Helpful Repair Tip
Use a multimeter continuity check while turning the thermostat knob — the contacts should open/close as you move the knob. If there’s no change, replace the WP2198202.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I test WP2198202 to know it really needs replacement?
With the refrigerator unplugged, remove the control housing and disconnect the thermostat harness. Use a multimeter on continuity/ohms and slowly turn the thermostat knob—continuity should change (open/close) as you move from warm to cold settings. If the switch never closes or never opens in any position, the thermostat is defective. Also inspect terminals for burn marks or corrosion. If unsure about live tests, call a technician.
Can I replace the WP2198202 thermostat myself or do I need a technician?
Most handy homeowners can replace WP2198202: it requires basic tools (screwdriver, multimeter), following safety steps (unplug appliance), and careful labeling of wires. Avoid damaging any sensing capillary if present. If the diagnosis involves compressor tests, start relay checks, or live voltage probing and you are not experienced, hire a pro.
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