Samsung Refrigerator: not working

Possible Causes

Power supply/power cord problem

How to Identify: No lights, display, or cooling; verify the outlet with another device and check breaker status.

Part: Power cord, outlet, circuit breaker

Control board or internal electrical failure

How to Identify: No response after power supply checks; fridge still unresponsive after plugging into known-good outlet.

Part: Main control board/electrical board

Display/control panel blank due to settings or lock modes

How to Identify: Panel blank but fridge operates (cooling functions still work, possibly Sabbath or Child Lock engaged.

Part: Control panel/display

DIY Solutions

Check power and reset breaker

Easy 10 minutes

Tools Needed: None, A known-working small appliance to test outlet

1. Unplug refrigerator and test the outlet with another device to confirm power.
2. Check and reset the circuit breaker if tripped.
3. Plug refrigerator into the outlet or a different known-good outlet.
4. Observe whether lights, panel, or compressor start up.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure hands are dry when testing electrical outlets.

Toggle Child Lock/Sabbath Mode and power cycle panel

Easy 5 minutes

Tools Needed: None

1. If the display is blank but cooling continues, try unlocking by pressing the lock/unlock button for >3 seconds.
2. Refer to the manual to disable Sabbath mode if applicable.
3. Unplug the refrigerator (or switch off breaker) for ~60 seconds then restore power.
4. Observe if the display lights up normally.

⚠️ Safety First: Turn off power before unplugging.

Professional Repairs

Replace control board or repair internal electrical faults

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400+

Power supply and wiring inspection/replacement

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

When to Call a Professional

Refrigerator remains entirely unresponsive after testing outlet and breaker.

Visible damage to power cord or internal electrical components.

The control panel/display remains blank and cannot be resolved by normal resets.

Preventive Maintenance

• Check and clean around power cord and outlet: Loose connections and power interruptions
  Frequency: monthly
• Inspect condenser coils and ensure ventilation clearance: Overheating and power strain issues that can cause shutdown
  Frequency: every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Samsung Refrigerator not working?

Common causes include power supply issues, control board failure, or settings like child lock.

How do I fix Samsung Refrigerator not working myself?

Check power supply, reset the breaker, and toggle child lock or Sabbath mode.

How much does it cost to fix not working?

Professional repairs typically cost between $100 to $400+ depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for not working?

Call a technician if DIY fixes don't work or if internal electrical issues are suspected.

References & Sources

• Samsung refrigerator has no power troubleshooting Official
• Samsung refrigerator control panel or screen blank Official
• Samsung display not responding guidance Official

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Defrost issue (1 mentions)
• Control board failure (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Check defrost heater, thermostat, and timer

   Success rate: 33.0%

2. Replace control board

   Success rate: 0.0%

Community Discussions

evaporator fan making grinding noise and then stopped working

Possible defrost issue; check defrost heater, thermostat, and timer.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair