XPARTCO 2188820 Refrigerator Thermistor (Sensor) Replaces WP2188820
The XPARTCO 2188820 is an aftermarket replacement refrigerator temperature sensor (thermistor) compatible with select Whirlpool, Kenmore, KitchenAid, Maytag, Jenn-Air, Dacor, and Thermador refrigerators. The thermistor is an NTC (negative temperature coefficient) sensor that continuously monitors the air temperature inside the refrigerator or freezer compartment and sends resistance-based readings to the electronic control board. The control board uses these readings to regulate compressor run time and fan operation, maintaining the set temperature accurately and efficiently.
This thermistor features an NTC resistance of 50K ohms at 25°C (27K ohms at 0°C/32°F) and a standard wire length of approximately 5.3 inches (13.46 cm), compatible with low-voltage refrigerator control boards (5V/12V). It directly replaces WP2188820, 2213442, AP6006068, PS11739132, and 1057764. Note: this thermistor is compatible with non-WISE system refrigerators only — it is not compatible with newer Whirlpool refrigerators using the WISE (Whirlpool Intelligent Smart Energy) control system. Installs in under 15 minutes.
Quick Answer
The XPARTCO 2188820 Refrigerator Thermistor fixes Whirlpool-family refrigerators that are too warm, too cold, have erratic temperatures, run the compressor too long, or display temperature-related error codes. NTC sensor, 50K ohm at 25°C, ~5.3" wire. Non-WISE system models only. Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore, KitchenAid, Maytag, Jenn-Air, Dacor, and Thermador. Replaces WP2188820, 2213442, AP6006068, PS11739132.
Common Problems This Part Fixes
Refrigerator not maintaining set temperature — too warm or too cold
Freezer section too warm or food not freezing properly
Compressor running continuously without cycling off
Temperature fluctuating erratically despite stable ambient conditions
Refrigerator temperature-related error codes displayed on the control panel
Excessive frost buildup caused by incorrect temperature regulation
Food or beverages freezing in the fresh food section
Replaces Part Numbers
This refrigerator thermistor directly replaces the following OEM and cross-reference part numbers:
WP2188820, 2188820, 2213442, EAP11739132, AWP46934, PD00033406, AP6006068, PS11739132.
If your part number is not listed above, contact our support team before ordering and we will verify compatibility.
Compatibility
This thermistor is compatible with select refrigerators from the following brands and series:
Whirlpool refrigerators — 5VW, GC3, EC3, GC5 series
Kenmore / Sears refrigerators — 106 series (Whirlpool-built models)
KitchenAid refrigerators — KSCS, KSSS, JS series
Maytag refrigerators (select models)
Jenn-Air refrigerators (select models)
Dacor refrigerators (select models)
Thermador refrigerators (select models)
Important — WISE System Compatibility: The 2188820 thermistor is compatible with non-WISE system refrigerators only. It is not compatible with newer Whirlpool refrigerators equipped with the WISE (Whirlpool Intelligent Smart Energy) control system. If your refrigerator uses the WISE system, this thermistor will not work correctly. Verify your model number before ordering, or contact our support team to confirm compatibility.
Key Features
NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor — resistance decreases as temperature increases, allowing precise temperature monitoring
50K ohm resistance at 25°C (27K ohm at 0°C/32°F) — matches original WP2188820 specifications
Wire length approximately 5.3 inches (13.46 cm) — standard length matching OEM dimensions
Low-voltage design compatible with 5V/12V refrigerator control boards
Continuously sends temperature readings to the control board to regulate compressor and fan operation
Non-WISE system compatible only — verify your model before ordering
Direct replacement for WP2188820, 2213442, AP6006068, and PS11739132
Compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore, KitchenAid, Maytag, Jenn-Air, Dacor, and Thermador refrigerators
Aftermarket replacement built to OEM-equivalent quality standards
Quick DIY repair — installs in under 15 minutes
Product Specifications
Part Number
2188820
OEM Part Number
WP2188820
Part Type
Refrigerator Temperature Sensor (NTC Thermistor)
Condition
Aftermarket Replacement
Sensor Type
NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient)
Resistance at 25°C
50,000 ohms (50K ohm)
Resistance at 0°C (32°F)
27,000 ohms (27K ohm)
Wire Length
Approximately 5.3 inches (13.46 cm)
Voltage
5V / 12V (low voltage)
WISE System Compatibility
Non-WISE models only
Compatible Brands
Whirlpool, Kenmore, KitchenAid, Maytag, Jenn-Air, Dacor, Thermador
Installation Notes
⚠️ Unplug Refrigerator Before Starting Disconnect power before beginning. The thermistor location varies by model — it is typically clipped to a bracket on the interior side wall of the fresh food or freezer compartment, or mounted near the evaporator coil. Consult your model's parts diagram or service manual to confirm the exact location before disassembly. Open the sensor cover or unclip the sensor bracket, disconnect the wiring connector, and pull the old thermistor out. Insert the new 2188820 thermistor, reconnect the wiring connector, and snap the cover or bracket back into place. Ensure the sensor head is positioned close to the compartment wall and the wiring is not pinched. Restore power and monitor the refrigerator temperature over the next few hours to confirm stable, accurate cooling. Tools needed: Phillips screwdriver (for panel access on some models); no tools needed for sensor replacement itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 2188820 and WP2188820?
These are the same thermistor. WP2188820 is the updated Whirlpool OEM part number that superseded the original 2188820. The 2213442 is also a cross-reference for the same part. This aftermarket replacement is compatible with all three numbers.
What does an NTC thermistor do and how do I know if mine has failed?
An NTC thermistor is a resistor whose resistance decreases as temperature increases. The control board sends a small voltage through the thermistor and measures the resulting resistance — a lower resistance means warmer temperature, and a higher resistance means cooler temperature. The board uses this reading to decide when to run the compressor and fans. A failed thermistor either reads open circuit (no continuity), short circuit (zero resistance), or provides incorrect readings that cause the refrigerator to run too warm, too cold, or cycle erratically. Test with a multimeter at room temperature — a working 2188820 should read approximately 50K ohms at 25°C (77°F). Significant deviation indicates failure.
How do I know if my refrigerator uses the WISE system?
The WISE (Whirlpool Intelligent Smart Energy) system was introduced on newer Whirlpool refrigerator models and uses a different thermistor specification that is not interchangeable with the 2188820. Models that use the WISE system are typically marked in the product documentation or on the control board. The easiest way to confirm compatibility is to verify your model number with our support team before ordering, or check whether WP2188820 appears in your model's official parts diagram. If your parts diagram lists WP2188820, this replacement is compatible.
Where is the thermistor located in my refrigerator?
The thermistor location varies by model and brand. On Whirlpool and KitchenAid models, it is commonly found on the interior side wall of the fresh food compartment clipped to a plastic housing. On some models it is located near the evaporator coil behind the freezer back panel. On Kenmore 106 series models, it may be on the fresh food section wall or inside the back panel. Consult your specific model's parts diagram or search for a model-specific installation video to locate the sensor before disassembling the refrigerator.
Is this an OEM or aftermarket part?
This is an aftermarket replacement part built to OEM-equivalent quality standards. It is not a genuine Whirlpool OEM part, but is manufactured with an NTC thermistor rated to the same 50K ohm specification as the original WP2188820 to match the performance and accuracy of the factory sensor.
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