How to Reset a Samsung Refrigerator
Power-cycle at the breaker to reset the control board. The display test mode exits on its own.
Reset Steps
- 1
Unplug the refrigerator or switch off its breaker for 60 seconds.
- 2
Restore power — the compressor may wait up to 5 minutes before restarting (normal protection delay).
- 3
If a code returns after the cooling system stabilizes (give it 2–4 hours), the underlying fault is real.
💡 Good to know: After any power loss, ice makers need up to 24 hours to resume normal production — give the system a full day before judging the fix.
If the Code Comes Back
A code that returns after a reset means the underlying fault is still present. Look up your exact code for its causes and step-by-step fix:
22E Refrigerator fan error — fresh-food compartment fan not running 21E Freezer fan error — freezer evaporator fan not running 24E Evaporator sensor error — freezer temperature sensor fault 25E Freezer defrost sensor error 88-88 Display test mode active — not a fault code 39E Ice maker function error — ice maker not cycling 5E Defrost sensor error 8E Ice maker sensor failure
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I run forced defrost on a Samsung refrigerator? +
Hold the self-diagnosis button pair (commonly Power Freeze + Power Cool) for 8–12 seconds, then press the pair repeatedly to cycle to 'Fd'. The unit beeps while defrosting and exits automatically.