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Samsung Refrigerator Error Code 39E

Reviewed by the ApplianceErrors Editorial Team · Verified against manufacturer service documentation · Last verified: June 10, 2026
Medium Severity 🔧🔧 Moderate DIY Also shown as: 39C

Ice maker function error — ice maker not cycling

The most common cause of the 39E error on a Samsung refrigerator is ice maker frozen solid — ice stuck in tray or ejection arm (~45% of cases); start with: force a manual defrost.

💰 DIY cost: $30–$150 👨‍🔧 Pro cost: $150–$350 Save $120+ by doing it yourself
Samsung Refrigerator error code 39E on the display panel
How the 39E code appears on a Samsung refrigerator display

What Does Error Code 39E Mean on a Samsung Refrigerator?

Ice maker function error — ice maker not cycling.

The ice maker is detecting a fault in its operating cycle. The ice maker motor or sensor has not responded within the expected time. Ice production has stopped.

What Causes Error Code 39E?

Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:

  1. 1
    Ice maker frozen solid — ice stuck in tray or ejection arm 45% of cases
  2. 2
    Failed ice maker motor module 30% of cases
  3. 3
    Ice maker temperature sensor fault 15% of cases
  4. 4
    Water inlet solenoid to ice maker not opening 10% of cases

How to Fix Samsung Refrigerator Error Code 39E

🔧🔧 Moderate DIY Est. time: 30–60 min
Safety first: Unplug the appliance before opening any panels or touching internal components.
  1. 1

    Force a manual defrost

    Hold the test/reset button on the ice maker for 3 seconds. If the ice maker is frozen, the motor strain will reveal it.

  2. 2

    Defrost the ice maker

    Turn off the refrigerator and place towels in the freezer. Let the ice maker thaw completely (2–4 hours). Check that the ejection arm moves freely.

  3. 3

    Test the ice maker water supply

    Listen for the water fill valve clicking when a new cycle starts. If you hear clicking but no water fills, the inlet solenoid to the ice maker is faulty.

    🔩 Water inlet valve solenoid ($30–$70)
  4. 4

    Replace ice maker assembly

    If defrost and water supply are fine but the motor still won't cycle, replace the ice maker module.

    🔩 Samsung ice maker module ($80–$150)

How to Reset Error Code 39E

Press the reset button on the ice maker. Alternatively, turn the ice maker off and back on using the ice maker switch.

Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.

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When to Call a Professional

If the ice maker is replaced and errors continue, the freezer is not cold enough (below 0°F/-18°C required) or the control board is not sending power to the ice maker.

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $150–$350

Related Error Codes

Find Replacement Parts

Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your Samsung Refrigerator:

External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.

More Samsung Refrigerator Error Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep using my Samsung Refrigerator when error 39E appears? +
You often can for a cycle or two, but the ice-maker issue behind 39E will keep interrupting normal operation until it is fixed. Plan the repair rather than ignoring the code.
What most commonly causes 39E on a Samsung Refrigerator? +
Across reported Samsung refrigerator repairs, the most frequent is ice maker frozen solid — ice stuck in tray or ejection arm (45% of cases), failed ice maker motor module (30%), then ice maker temperature sensor fault (15%). Check them in that order before replacing any parts.
39E keeps coming back after a reset — what should I check next? +
A reset only clears the stored 39E fault; if it returns, the ice-maker problem is still present. Move on to the physical checks — force a manual defrost, then defrost the ice maker — since the code will reappear until the root cause is resolved. This is a moderate job — a multimeter and some disassembly are usually involved.
How much does it cost to fix Samsung Refrigerator error 39E? +
A DIY repair typically runs $30–$150 in parts, versus $150–$350 for a professional service call, so handling it yourself saves around $120. Expect the work to take roughly 30–60 minutes.

Sources & References

Content verified against manufacturer service documentation. Last verified: June 10, 2026.