Abstract: A freezer and method of operating a freezer are provided with an adaptive defrost cycle. The freezer includes a controller that operates the freezer to: provide cooling to a cabinet via an evaporator during periodic operational cycles, monitor a time elapsed since a most recent defrost cycle, determine whether the time elapsed is greater than a current defrost interval, and perform a defrost cycle if so. The controller varies the current defrost interval between a first, larger time value and a second, smaller time value based on a plurality of trigger signals in response to various operating characteristics of the freezer monitored by sensors. After each defrost cycle is completed, the current defrost interval is reset to the first, larger time value.

Abstract: An icemaker assembly for a refrigerator includes a support bracket having at least one support arm and a rear panel section, a bin slidably attached to the at least one support arm, an icemaker unit having an ice mold is also supported by the at least one support arm within the freezer compartment. The icemaker assembly also includes a fan mounted to the rear panel portion of the support bracket. The fan is selectively operable to direct an airflow onto the icemaker unit in order to speed ice production. Operation of the fan is tied to activation of a water inlet valve. A controller is coupled to the fan and the water inlet valve such that once the water inlet valve opens, fresh water enters the ice mold and the control activates the fan to hasten the production of ice.

Abstract: A refrigerator includes a cabinet within which is arranged an upper fresh food compartment and a lower freezer compartment. A freezer basket is slidingly supported in the freezer compartment, preferably for concurrent movement with a freezer door. The freezer basket is coupled to a lifting mechanism that selectively shifts the freezer basket from a first or lowered position to a second or raised position in order to facilitate removal of items from the freezer basket. The lifting mechanism can be formed by a mechanical, electrical or pneumatic system.

Abstract: A brace is provided to hold a refrigerator machine compartment cover open during servicing of various refrigeration compartments. The brace includes a longitudinal center section having first and second ends, a hinge support section attached to the first end and a mounting section attached to the second end. The brace is placed against a hinge assembly to support the cover in the open position. When not in use, the brace may be stored in a machine compartment portion of the refrigerator.

Abstract: A refrigerator includes a cabinet within which is arranged an upper fresh food compartment and a lower freezer compartment. A freezer basket is slidingly supported in the freezer compartment, preferably for concurrent movement with a freezer door. The freezer basket is coupled to a lifting mechanism that selectively shifts the freezer basket from a first or lowered position to a second or raised position in order to facilitate removal of items from the freezer basket. The lifting mechanism can be formed by a mechanical, electrical or pneumatic system.

Abstract: To allow for easier opening of a refrigerator door, a pressure relief system is provided to relieve a pressure differential or vacuum that develops due to operation and use of the refrigerator. The pressure relief system includes a check valve having an orifice with a flexible membrane. An insulation portion of the pressure relief valve, which is foamed into the cabinet, spans from the fresh food compartment to a top of the cabinet and directs air towards the rear cabinet liner for moisture condensing measures. The pressure relief assembly also includes an adapter which mounts to the cabinet top and provides a mounting surface for an air return assembly.