Samsung Refrigerator Error Codes
A code on your Samsung refrigerator’s display tells you which part or system needs attention. This guide lists the codes that Samsung itself documents, what they mean, and what to do next. Each meaning comes from Samsung’s US support pages, linked below.
First: don’t unplug it (unless told to)
Samsung advises that unless you are directed to, you should not unplug the refrigerator or press buttons to make an error code go away. Either can make it harder for a technician to find the fault. (Samsung: refrigerator error codes)
“OF OF”, “O FF” or scrolling bars: Cooling Off mode, not a fault
If the display shows OF OF, O FF, OFF OFF or temperature bars scrolling back and forth, the refrigerator is in Cooling Off mode (also called Demo or Shop mode). Cooling, ice making and the water dispenser are switched off. No repair is needed. On many models you exit by touching and holding the top two buttons on the left of the panel for about 8 seconds, until it chimes. Newer models also need the top button on the right. Your user manual has the steps for your model. (Samsung: OF OF / Cooling Off mode)
Common Samsung refrigerator codes
| Code | What Samsung says it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| 5E | Fridge defrost sensor error | Defrost-related. Usually needs a technician to test the sensor and defrost system. |
| 8E | Ice maker (freezer) sensor error | Ice maker sensor fault. Book service. |
| 14E | Ice maker sensor error | Ice maker sensor fault. Book service. |
| 33E | Ice pipe heater error | A heater fault in the ice path. Book service. |
| 39E / 39C | Ice maker function error | Ice maker fault. Book service. See also Samsung ice maker not working. |
| 40E / 40C | Ice room fan error | Often linked to icing around the fan. Book service. |
| 84C | Compressor lock | A sealed-system or compressor-drive problem. Needs a technician. Move perishables to a cooler if the fridge is warming. |
Source for all codes above: Samsung US, “Samsung refrigerator error codes”. Samsung notes the list is not complete, and codes and their meanings can vary by model. Your model’s user manual or service sheet is the final word.
Codes not listed here
Other codes, such as 22E, 41E or 21E, are widely discussed online, but Samsung’s public list doesn’t include them, so we haven’t listed meanings here. Have your model number and the exact code ready, and we’ll look it up for your unit.
When to call a technician
- The code comes back after the refrigerator has been running normally
- The fresh-food side is above 40°F or the freezer is softening
- You see ice build-up on the back wall of the freezer, or hear a fan scraping ice
We repair Samsung refrigerators across the San Francisco Bay Area. See Samsung appliance repair, refrigerator repair and refrigerator not cooling. The service call is $219, and it’s free if you go with the repair. You get the exact price before work starts (how pricing works). Our technicians are EPA 608 certified for sealed-system work, and qualifying repairs come with 90 days on parts and labor.
Bay Appliance Repair is an independent repair company, not affiliated with Samsung. Code meanings are quoted from Samsung’s public support pages, checked October 2026.
Prefer to schedule yourself? Book online, or call (415) 585-5900, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Bay Appliance Repair, 140 San Pedro Rd, Daly City, CA 94014 · (415) 585-5900 · BEAR #46247 · Mon–Fri 8am–5pm. We come to you; there is no walk-in counter.