Samsung Refrigerator Error Codes

Below are the most common Samsung refrigerator error codes . Each code includes what it means, step-by-step DIY fixes, when to call a professional, and repair cost estimates.

Safety Warning

4 high-urgency code(s) should be addressed promptly. If you smell gas, hear unusual sounds, or see sparks, turn off the system and call a professional immediately.

Quick Navigation — 10 Error Codes

Code 5E Code 22E Code 21E Code PC ER Code OF OF Code 88 88 Code 1E Code AP Code 41E Code 40E

Samsung Code 5E: Defrost sensor error — defrost system malfunction

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $175 – $450

Common Causes

  • Failed defrost sensor or fuse
  • Defrost heater failure
  • Ice buildup blocking the defrost system
  • Wiring issue in the defrost circuit

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Check the freezer for excessive frost on the back wall — this confirms a defrost issue.
  2. Unplug the refrigerator for 24-48 hours with doors open to manually defrost.
  3. After defrosting, plug back in. If frost returns within a few days, the defrost system is failed.
  4. Ensure nothing is blocking the air vents between the freezer and fridge.

Call a professional when: Frost returns quickly after a manual defrost — the defrost heater, sensor, or control board needs professional replacement.

Samsung Code 22E: Refrigerator fan error — fan motor malfunction

High Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $375

Common Causes

  • Failed refrigerator compartment fan motor
  • Ice buildup around the fan preventing rotation
  • Wiring issue at the fan motor
  • Blocked fan blade

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Open the refrigerator and listen for the fan — you should hear it running. Press the door switch to simulate a closed door.
  2. Check for ice buildup around the fan vent area.
  3. Unplug the refrigerator for 24 hours to defrost if ice is present, then test.
  4. Ensure nothing is blocking the fan vent opening inside the fridge.

Call a professional when: No ice is present but the fan does not run — the fan motor needs professional replacement.

Samsung Code 21E: Freezer fan error — freezer fan motor malfunction

High Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $375

Common Causes

  • Failed freezer fan motor
  • Ice buildup around the evaporator fan
  • Defrost failure causing ice to encase the fan
  • Wiring issue at the fan

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Open the freezer door and listen for the fan. Press the door switch to test.
  2. If you hear grinding or clicking, ice may be contacting the fan blade.
  3. Unplug the unit for 24 hours to defrost, then plug back in and listen for the fan.
  4. Ensure nothing is pressed against the rear vent in the freezer.

Call a professional when: Fan does not run after defrosting — the freezer fan motor or control board needs replacement.

Samsung Code PC ER: Communication error between refrigerator components

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $450

Common Causes

  • Loose wire harness connection under the top left door hinge
  • Damaged wire harness from opening/closing the door
  • Failed main control board
  • Power surge damage

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Unplug the refrigerator. Locate the wire harness connection under the top left door hinge.
  2. Disconnect and reconnect the wire harness firmly to ensure a solid connection.
  3. Plug the refrigerator back in and check if the code clears.
  4. If it reappears, try unplugging for 10 minutes for a full reset.

Call a professional when: The wire harness connection is secure but the code persists — the harness may be damaged internally or the control board needs replacement.

Samsung Code OF OF: Demo mode active — cooling system turned off

High Urgency

Common Causes

  • Refrigerator accidentally put into showroom demo mode
  • Demo mode activated during setup or a button combination was pressed accidentally

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. On most models: press and hold the Energy Saver and Freezer buttons simultaneously for 3-5 seconds.
  2. On other models: press and hold the Freezer and Fridge buttons simultaneously for 3-5 seconds.
  3. Check your manual for the specific demo mode exit procedure for your model.
  4. Once exited, the display should show normal temperature readings and cooling will resume.

Call a professional when: You cannot exit demo mode with any button combination — the control board may be malfunctioning.

Samsung Code 88 88: Communication fault — power disruption during startup

High Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $200 – $500

Common Causes

  • Power was disrupted during the refrigerator boot-up sequence
  • Voltage variation at the electrical outlet
  • Loose power cord connection
  • Main control board communication failure

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Unplug the refrigerator, wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in firmly.
  2. Ensure the outlet provides stable power — avoid sharing the circuit with high-draw appliances.
  3. Do not open the doors for 2-3 hours after resetting to allow the system to stabilize.
  4. If the code changes to 83, 85, or 86, note the specific number for the technician.

Call a professional when: The code persists after a clean power reset — the main control board or power supply circuit needs professional diagnosis.

Samsung Code 1E: Ice maker sensor error — ice maker temperature sensor fault

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $400

Common Causes

  • Failed ice maker temperature sensor
  • Wiring issue at the ice maker
  • Ice maker module malfunction
  • Frozen sensor

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off the ice maker using its on/off switch.
  2. Unplug the refrigerator for 10 minutes, then plug back in and turn the ice maker on.
  3. Check for ice buildup around the ice maker and defrost if needed.
  4. Ensure the freezer is set to 0 degrees F.

Call a professional when: The code persists after a reset — the ice maker sensor or the entire ice maker assembly needs professional replacement.

Samsung Code AP: Access point mode — Wi-Fi setup mode active

Low Urgency

Common Causes

  • The refrigerator entered Wi-Fi access point mode for SmartThings setup
  • Button combination accidentally activated setup mode

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Press and hold the button designated during SmartThings setup (usually the Fridge or Ice Type button) for 3-5 seconds to exit.
  2. Complete the SmartThings Wi-Fi setup — the code will clear automatically when connected.
  3. If you do not want Wi-Fi, simply wait — most models exit AP mode automatically after a few minutes.

Call a professional when: This is not a repair issue. No service call is needed.

Samsung Code 41E: Refrigerator temperature sensor error

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $300

Common Causes

  • Failed refrigerator thermistor
  • Loose wiring at the sensor
  • Main control board not reading the sensor

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Unplug the refrigerator for 10 minutes to reset.
  2. Check if the fridge is cooling normally — if so, the error may be transient.
  3. Ensure vents between freezer and fridge compartments are not blocked by food.

Call a professional when: The code persists or the fridge is not cooling correctly — the thermistor needs testing and replacement.

Samsung Code 40E: Freezer temperature sensor error

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $300

Common Causes

  • Failed freezer thermistor
  • Wiring issue at the sensor connection
  • Control board fault

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Unplug the refrigerator for 10 minutes to reset.
  2. Check the freezer temperature — if it is still cold, the error may be transient.
  3. Ensure nothing is blocking the freezer air vents.

Call a professional when: The code persists or the freezer is not staying cold — the freezer thermistor needs professional replacement.

Need Samsung Repair in Central Texas?

Texas Temp Masters provides expert appliance repair for Samsung and all major brands in Killeen, Waco, Temple, and surrounding areas. Call (817) 704-0706 for fast, reliable service, or contact us online.

Error code information cross-referenced from manufacturer documentation, HVAC/appliance professional resources, and verified repair databases. Codes can vary by specific model and control board revision. Always verify against your unit's diagnostic label or owner's manual. Repair costs are estimates based on national averages. Last updated February 2026.

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