Samsung DA31-00146H Evaporator / Ice Maker Cooling Fan Motor – What This Part Does & How to Replace It
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Understanding the Problem
What DA31-00146H is and why it matters: The DA31-00146H is the evaporator/ice maker cooling fan motor used in many Samsung refrigerators. It circulates cold air from the evaporator coil across the freezer and into the ice maker/ice bin area. When this motor fails, the freezer may frost up, the ice maker can stop producing or dispensing ice properly, and you may hear loud grinding or no fan noise at all. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair instructions: 1) Safety and preparation: - Unplug the refrigerator or switch off the dedicated breaker. Move food to a cooler if needed. Gather tools: Philips and flat screwdrivers, socket set (commonly 1/4" or 5/16"), nut driver, multimeter, flashlight, and replacement part DA31-00146H. 2) Confirm symptoms before disassembly: - Listen for fan noise when compressor is running. If no noise and compressor is on, fan may be dead. - Check for poor cooling in freezer, excessive frost/ice on evaporator cover, or ice maker problems. 3) Access the evaporator/ice maker fan: - Remove items from the freezer and remove shelves/bins blocking access. - Remove the freezer/back wall inner panel / evaporator cover (usually secured with screws and sometimes clips). Keep screws organized. - Inspect for visible ice build-up around the evaporator and fan area. If heavily iced, you'll need to defrost before testing (manual defrost or allow thawing). 4) Visual and manual checks: - Inspect the fan blade for cracks or obstruction. Try spinning it by hand (do this with power off). It should spin freely with slight resistance. If it is stiff, noisy, or blocked, the motor or blade is bad. - Check wiring harness and connector for burn marks or corrosion. 5) Electrical testing with a multimeter (power still off for continuity tests): - Disconnect the fan motor connector. Measure motor windings for continuity/resistance (typical small refrigerator motors read low ohms — dozens to a few hundred ohms depending on model). An open circuit indicates a failed motor. - With the fridge plugged in and compressor running, carefully measure voltage at the fan connector (do not touch moving parts). You should see ~120V AC for many models or a DC/low-voltage signal on some newer Samsung units—check service manual or wiring diagram for your model. No voltage with a good motor means a control/thermostat/defrost board issue. 6) Remove faulty motor: - Remove mounting screws securing the motor assembly to the evaporator housing. Note orientation and routing of wires. - Remove the fan blade/impeller from the motor shaft (some press-fit; pull straight off; others have a set screw). - Remove the motor from the housing and disconnect the wiring harness. 7) Install replacement DA31-00146H: - Install the new motor into housing, attach fan blade securely, reconnect wiring harness, and reattach mounting screws. - If you removed panels or shelves, reinstall them in reverse order. 8) Test operation: - Plug refrigerator back in or restore power. Allow a minute for controls to initialize, then listen for the fan and verify air movement. Check that the freezer cools normally and the ice maker/ice bin receives airflow. - Monitor for unusual noises, vibration, or re-icing problems over the next 24 hours. 9) If replacement doesn't fix the problem: - Verify voltage to the fan when compressor is running. If there's no voltage, troubleshoot control board, defrost control, thermostat, or door switches. Safety note: Always disconnect power before disassembling the refrigerator. When testing live voltage, use appropriate safety procedures and tools. If you are uncomfortable working with mains voltage or refrigerant-containing compartments, call a qualified appliance technician.
Common Symptoms
Noisy fan (grinding or rattling), no airflow from freezer to ice maker, freezer still warm while compressor runs, ice maker not producing or melting ice, visible ice buildup around evaporator/fan.
Common Causes
- Worn motor bearings or seized motor shaft
- Electrical failure in the motor windings or connectors
- Obstruction (ice, debris) preventing fan from spinning
- Control board or wiring failing to send power to the fan
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
To confirm the motor is bad: with power off, spin the fan blade by hand—if it binds or feels rough, the motor bearings are bad. Then confirm with a continuity test; an open winding or wildly high resistance indicates a failed motor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will replacing the DA31-00146H fix my ice maker not making ice?
If the ice maker problem is caused by lack of cold airflow from a failed evaporator/ice maker fan motor, replacing DA31-00146H will usually fix it. However, if the ice maker itself, water supply, or control module is faulty, replacing the fan won’t help. Verify the fan is not running and that the ice maker area is too warm before replacing the motor.
Can I replace DA31-00146H myself and how long will it take?
Yes — if you’re comfortable removing panels and using basic hand tools, this is a do-it-yourself repair that typically takes 30–90 minutes. Always unplug the fridge first, verify the correct replacement part for your model, and follow the step-by-step instructions above. If testing shows no voltage to the fan, further electrical diagnosis or a pro technician may be required.
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