{"product_id":"2188820-refrigerator-thermistor-sensor-replaces-wp2188820","title":"2188820 Refrigerator Thermistor (Sensor) Replaces WP2188820","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cmeta name=\"viewport\" content=\"width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0\"\u003e\u003clink href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=Inter:wght@400;600;700;900\u0026amp;display=swap\" rel=\"stylesheet\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e\n  .pom { font-family: 'Inter', sans-serif; color: #1e293b; line-height: 1.75; }\n  .pom *, .pom *::before, .pom *::after { box-sizing: border-box; }\n  .pom h2 { font-family: 'Inter', sans-serif; font-size: 21px; font-weight: 900; color: #0f172a; margin: 0 0 12px; letter-spacing: -0.01em; }\n  .pom h3 { font-family: 'Inter', sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-weight: 900; color: #0f172a; margin: 0 0 12px; letter-spacing: -0.01em; }\n  .pom-card { background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius: 12px; padding: 20px 22px; margin-bottom: 16px; }\n  .pom-card-blue { background: #eff6ff; border-color: #bfdbfe; }\n  .pom-card-green { background: #f0fdf4; border-color: #bbf7d0; }\n  .pom-qa { background: #eff6ff; border-left: 4px solid #1e40af; border-radius: 0 8px 8px 0; padding: 16px 20px; margin-bottom: 16px; }\n  .pom-qa-label { font-family: 'Inter', sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 900; letter-spacing: 0.1em; text-transform: uppercase; color: #1e40af; margin: 0 0 6px; }\n  .pom ul { margin: 0; padding: 0; list-style: none; }\n  .pom ul li { position: relative; padding-left: 20px; margin-bottom: 8px; font-size: 16px; }\n  .pom ul li::before { content: \"\"; position: absolute; left: 0; top: 9px; width: 7px; height: 7px; border-radius: 50%; background: #1e40af; }\n  .pom-list-green li::before { background: #15803d; }\n  .pom-specs-table { width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 15px; }\n  .pom-specs-table tr { border-bottom: 1px solid #f1f5f9; }\n  .pom-specs-table tr:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .pom-specs-table td { padding: 9px 4px; }\n  .pom-specs-table td:first-child { color: #1e293b; width: 45%; font-style: italic; }\n  .pom-specs-table td:last-child { font-weight: 700; color: #0f172a; }\n  .pom-warning { background: #fffbeb; border-left: 4px solid #f59e0b; border-radius: 0 8px 8px 0; padding: 14px 18px; font-size: 15px; color: #92400e; line-height: 1.65; }\n  .pom-warning strong { display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; font-size: 11px; text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 0.08em; }\n  .pom-faq-item { margin-bottom: 16px; padding-bottom: 16px; border-bottom: 1px solid #f1f5f9; }\n  .pom-faq-item:last-child { border-bottom: none; margin-bottom: 0; padding-bottom: 0; }\n  .pom-faq-q { font-weight: 700; color: #0f172a; margin-bottom: 5px; font-size: 16px; }\n  .pom-faq-a { font-size: 15px; color: #334155; margin: 0; line-height: 1.65; }\n  .pom-badges { display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; gap: 10px; margin-top: 14px; }\n  .pom-badge { background: #f0fdf4; border: 1px solid #bbf7d0; color: #15803d; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700; padding: 6px 14px; border-radius: 999px; }\n  .pom p { margin: 0 0 12px; font-size: 16px; }\n  .pom p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom\"\u003e\n\u003c!-- Product Description --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-card\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eXPARTCO 2188820 Refrigerator Thermistor (Sensor) Replaces WP2188820\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- Quick Answer --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-qa\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-qa-label\"\u003eQuick Answer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eXPARTCO 2188820 Refrigerator Thermistor\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- Common Problems This Part Fixes --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-card\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCommon Problems This Part Fixes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRefrigerator not maintaining set temperature — too warm or too cold\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFreezer section too warm or food not freezing properly\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompressor running continuously without cycling off\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTemperature fluctuating erratically despite stable ambient conditions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRefrigerator temperature-related error codes displayed on the control panel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExcessive frost buildup caused by incorrect temperature regulation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFood or beverages freezing in the fresh food section\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- Replaces Part Numbers --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-card\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eReplaces Part Numbers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis refrigerator thermistor directly replaces the following OEM and cross-reference part numbers:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-family: monospace; font-size: 15px; color: #0f172a; font-weight: bold; line-height: 2.2;\"\u003eWP2188820, 2188820, 2213442, EAP11739132, AWP46934, PD00033406, AP6006068, PS11739132.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 4px; font-size: 15px; color: #475569;\"\u003eIf your part number is not listed above, contact our support team before ordering and we will verify compatibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- Compatibility --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-card pom-card-blue\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis thermistor is compatible with select refrigerators from the following brands and series:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"pom-list-green\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhirlpool refrigerators — 5VW, GC3, EC3, GC5 series\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKenmore \/ Sears refrigerators — 106 series (Whirlpool-built models)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKitchenAid refrigerators — KSCS, KSSS, JS series\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaytag refrigerators (select models)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJenn-Air refrigerators (select models)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDacor refrigerators (select models)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThermador refrigerators (select models)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-top: 12px; font-size: 15px; color: #991b1b; background: #fef2f2; border-left: 4px solid #dc2626; padding: 10px 14px; border-radius: 0 6px 6px 0;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImportant — WISE System Compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e The 2188820 thermistor is compatible with \u003cstrong\u003enon-WISE system refrigerators only\u003c\/strong\u003e. 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- Key Features --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-card\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor — resistance decreases as temperature increases, allowing precise temperature monitoring\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e50K ohm resistance at 25°C (27K ohm at 0°C\/32°F) — matches original WP2188820 specifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWire length approximately 5.3 inches (13.46 cm) — standard length matching OEM dimensions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLow-voltage design compatible with 5V\/12V refrigerator control boards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eContinuously sends temperature readings to the control board to regulate compressor and fan operation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNon-WISE system compatible only — verify your model before ordering\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDirect replacement for WP2188820, 2213442, AP6006068, and PS11739132\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore, KitchenAid, Maytag, Jenn-Air, Dacor, and Thermador refrigerators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAftermarket replacement built to OEM-equivalent quality standards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuick DIY repair — installs in under 15 minutes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- Specifications --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-card\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProduct Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"pom-specs-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePart Number\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2188820\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOEM Part Number\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWP2188820\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePart Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eRefrigerator Temperature Sensor (NTC Thermistor)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCondition\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAftermarket Replacement\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensor Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResistance at 25°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e50,000 ohms (50K ohm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eResistance at 0°C (32°F)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e27,000 ohms (27K ohm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWire Length\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eApproximately 5.3 inches (13.46 cm)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eVoltage\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5V \/ 12V (low voltage)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWISE System Compatibility\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNon-WISE models only\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCompatible Brands\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWhirlpool, Kenmore, KitchenAid, Maytag, Jenn-Air, Dacor, Thermador\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- Installation Notes --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-card\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eInstallation Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-warning\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e⚠️ Unplug Refrigerator Before Starting\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- FAQ --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-card\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-faq-q\"\u003eWhat is the difference between 2188820 and WP2188820?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-faq-a\"\u003eThese 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-faq-q\"\u003eWhat does an NTC thermistor do and how do I know if mine has failed?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-faq-a\"\u003eAn 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-faq-q\"\u003eHow do I know if my refrigerator uses the WISE system?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-faq-a\"\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-faq-q\"\u003eWhere is the thermistor located in my refrigerator?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-faq-a\"\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-faq-q\"\u003eIs this an OEM or aftermarket part?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"pom-faq-a\"\u003eThis 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- Shop With Confidence --\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-card pom-card-green\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eShop With Confidence\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA U.S.-based appliance parts retailer specializing in genuine OEM and high-quality replacement parts. We stock components for all major appliance brands and offer fast shipping from our U.S. warehouse. Our team is available to help verify compatibility before you purchase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pom-badges\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"pom-badge\"\u003e✓ Fast US Shipping\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"pom-badge\"\u003e✓ Quality Aftermarket Parts\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"pom-badge\"\u003e✓ Compatibility Support\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan class=\"pom-badge\"\u003e✓ Secure Checkout\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"XPARTCO","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31334516228149,"sku":"2188820","price":13.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0285\/1107\/6405\/files\/2188820_2.jpg?v=1778599551","url":"https:\/\/expresspartsdirect.com\/products\/2188820-refrigerator-thermistor-sensor-replaces-wp2188820","provider":"Express Parts Direct","version":"1.0","type":"link"}