The Defrost Heater Assembly is an OEM replacement part for GE refrigerators. As part of the refrigerator's defrost system, this assembly houses crucial defrosting components including the heater element and associated wiring or controls. Its purpose is to help melt away accumulated ice buildup in the freezer compartment.  Causes of a bad defrost heater can include failure of internal components like the heater element no longer producing heat or damage to wiring harnesses that prevent proper operation. Symptoms of a faulty assembly include: Prolonged or incomplete defrost cycles that allow excessive frost to accrue  Temperature fluctuations in the freezer as the system struggles to defrost Odd smells coming from the assembly area during operation Visible damage or corrosion on assembly components This OEM GE replacement part is also compatible with some Hotpoint, RCA, and Kenmore models.WR51X10094 (AP4315711) replaces 1477837, AH2323339, EA2323339, PS2323339.