Samsung Refrigerator Error Codes: What They Mean and How to Fix Them

Samsung refrigerators display error codes on the front panel to help you identify problems. Here's what each code means and what to do about it. ## How to Read Samsung Error Codes Samsung refrigerator error codes appear on the digital temperature display. Some codes flash, while others remain steady. To reset an error code, try holding the Energy Saver and Fridge buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds. ## Common Samsung Refrigerator Error Codes ### 1E or SE — Communication Error **What It Means:** A communication error between the display panel and the main control board. **The Fix:** Unplug the refrigerator for 2 minutes, then plug it back in. If the code returns, the display board or main control board may need replacement. ### 5E — Fridge Defrost Sensor Error **What It Means:** The defrost sensor in the fridge compartment has failed or is reading incorrectly. **The Fix:** The fridge defrost sensor needs replacement. Search your model number at PartsDiscount.com for the correct sensor. ### 8E — Ice Maker Sensor Error **What It Means:** The ice maker sensor has failed. **The Fix:** Replace the ice maker sensor or the ice maker assembly. ### 14E — Ice Maker Sensor Error (Specific) **What It Means:** Similar to 8E but specific to certain Samsung models. The ice maker sensor is faulty. **The Fix:** Replace the ice maker sensor. ### 21E or 21C — Freezer Fan Error **What It Means:** The freezer evaporator fan motor has failed or is blocked by ice. **The Fix:** Check for ice buildup around the fan. If the fan is blocked, defrost the freezer manually. If the motor has failed, replace it. ### 22E or 22C — Fridge Fan Error **What It Means:** The refrigerator compartment fan motor has failed. **The Fix:** Replace the fridge fan motor. ### 33E — Ice Pipe Heater Error **What It Means:** The ice pipe heater (used in some models with external water/ice dispensers) has failed. **The Fix:** Replace the ice pipe heater. ### 39E or 39C — Ice Maker Function Error **What It Means:** An error with the ice maker's internal functions. **The Fix:** Try resetting the ice maker first. If the code persists, the ice maker assembly may need replacement. ### 40E or 40C — Ice Room Fan Error **What It Means:** The fan in the ice maker compartment has failed. **The Fix:** Replace the ice room fan motor. ### 41E or 41C — Fresh Food Fan Error **What It Means:** Another indication of fresh food compartment fan failure. **The Fix:** Replace the fresh food fan motor. ### 84C — Compressor Lock Error **What It Means:** The compressor is locked or unable to start. **The Fix:** Unplug the refrigerator for 10 minutes. If the error returns, the compressor or start relay may need attention. This may require professional service. ### PC ER — Communication Error Between Panels **What It Means:** The main control board and the display panel aren't communicating. **The Fix:** Check wiring connections between the boards. If connections are secure, one of the boards may need replacement. ### AP — Display Mode **What It Means:** The refrigerator is in showroom/display mode. It's not an error — the cooling system is disabled. **The Fix:** Hold the Energy Saver and Power Freeze buttons for 10 seconds to exit display mode. ## Samsung Error Code Reset For most Samsung error codes, try this reset sequence: 1. Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the breaker 2. Wait 5 minutes 3. Plug it back in or turn the breaker on 4. If the error code returns, the underlying problem still exists and needs repair ## Find Samsung Refrigerator Parts Search your Samsung refrigerator model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the exact replacement part. Samsung model numbers are usually found on a sticker inside the fridge on the left wall.