This article deals with the problem of a Samsung freezer that is thawing out regularly. So if you have this problem on your hands, you have come to the right place.
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Samsung Freezer Thawing Out – What to Do
If a Samsung freezer is always thawing out, here is what to do:
1. Check the Temperature Setting
Take a look at the setting of the temperature for the freezer to see if it is at least at 0 degrees Fahrenheit. If it is not, make sure it is not above 5 degrees Fahrenheit or the freezer won’t stay frozen.
Adjust the setting to a point where the freezer has a chance to maintain a cold temperature. If every other part of the unit works well, the right temperature setting should fix the problem.
2. Check the Defrost System
Start with the defrost timer. Using a flathead screwdriver, turn the timer clockwise until there is a click. This shows the unit is in the defrost cycle.
Wait for about 30 minutes for the timer to automatically exit the defrost mode. If this does not happen, the timer is defective and should be replaced.
To make doubly sure, test it with a multimeter to check for continuity. If there is no continuity, replace the timer.
It is possible for the defrost timer to be stuck in the defrost mode, thereby causing the freezer to always thaw out. Replacing it fixes the problem if other components are in good working condition.
Next, check for continuity in the defrost heater using a multimeter. If there is no continuity in the heater, replace it. A malfunctioning defrost heater could keep the cooling coils warm and unable to produce cold air for the freezer. As a result, the freezer won’t be able to freeze.
Another component to check is the defrost control board. The solder points on the board could be burnt or there could be other damages to it. Since it is responsible for controlling the defrost mode of the unit, a malfunctioning or damaged one could keep the unit perpetually thawed.
To cover all bases, you can also test the defrost sensor and the defrost thermostat.
A bad defrost system is, perhaps, the likeliest reason why the freezer is thawing out. If any of the components of the defrost system is defective, it will affect the ability of the freezer to stay frozen or cold.
3. Check the Gasket
Pass your hand along the gasket to see if you can feel cold air coming from the freezer. This is one way to tell if the gasket is weak or loose. Replace it if you can feel cold air.
But a better way to test the gasket is to close the door of the freezer on a dollar bill or a piece of paper. If you cannot pull the bill or paper out without opening the door, the gasket is working fine. However, if you can pull it out, replace the gasket as soon as possible.
Additionally, clean the gasket regularly to remove dirt so that it can seal tightly. Accumulation of dirt makes it difficult for the gasket to work properly.
A compromised gasket is another strong reason why a Samsung freezer keeps thawing out.
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4. Check the Condenser Coils
Dirty coils won’t effectively remove heat from the freezer. As a result, the freezer will accumulate heat which won’t allow it to cool. Therefore, it is important to clean the coils once or twice a year. That is unless they are within the walls of the freezer.
5. Check the Power Cord
Inspect the power cord of the freezer to be sure it is not damaged. If it is, it needs to be fixed. But if it is not damaged, check the wall outlet to which it is connected. It is likely there isn’t enough voltage coming from it or it is no longer working.
Plug another appliance into the outlet to see if it works. This will tell you what the problem is. So if the outlet is bad, relocate the freezer to another part of the house with a properly-working wall outlet.
Do not plug the freezer into an extension cord. Doing this can damage the freezer or reduce its ability to cool.
6. Check Leveling
Be sure that the unit is properly leveled. Poor levelling leads to many issues in a Samsung freezer, including cooling and thawing. Therefore, consult the manual of the unit to see instructions on how to level the unit correctly.
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Thawing Out a Samsung Refrigerator – Quick Guide
To thaw out a Samsung refrigerator, choose which method you want to use.
1. Forced Defrost
You can put the refrigerator into the forced defrost mode in order to thaw it. To do this, press a combination of buttons. The combination depends on the model of the Samsung refrigerator you have.
However, pressing the Energy Saver and the Fridge buttons at the same time for about 8 seconds gets it into the mode. Using the combination of Freezer and Lighting button also works. This will take about 5 to 10 minutes to complete.
This video shows how to fore defrost a Samsung refrigerator…
2. Manual Defrost
Empty the refrigerator of all food items and store them in another refrigerator or in a cooler with ice packs. Unplug the refrigerator and place towels on the floor around the refrigerator to absorb water. Open the door of the refrigerator and leave it open for the duration of the defrost cycle.
It is important to note here that removing the racks, bins and shelves from the refrigerator makes for easier defrosting and cleaning. So, you can use this time to wash the racks, bins and shelves of the refrigerator.
After the ice in the refrigerator has thawed, clean it thoroughly with soap and water. Then, dry it completely and give it some extra time to air-dry. Next, replace the shelves, racks and bins and plug the refrigerator back.
It will take several hours for the unit to cool enough. So when it does, replace the food items you removed earlier.
To speed up the process, you can soak a cloth or towel in hot water and gently scrub the ice off the refrigerator. You can also place pans or bowls of hot water inside the refrigerator.
Note: Many Samsung refrigerator models are frost-free so they don’t need to be defrosted or thawed manually.
Quick Note
Know when to disconnect the refrigerator from power so that there is no accidental electrocution. But if you must use power while fixing it, tread carefully.
If you are not sure about fixing the problem or if none of the steps above works, contact Samsung to request service. Alternatively, chat with our technicians as they are always available to assist you.
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