39E
Samsung Refrigerator
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The 39E error means there is a fault with the ice maker's defrost heater. The heater is supposed to release ice cubes from the tray during harvest. When it fails, ice can get stuck or the ice maker stops producing.
Affected Models
- RF28HMEDBSR
- RF28K9580SR
- RF23HTEDBSR
- RF25HMEDBSR
- Samsung French door models with in-door or in-freezer ice makers
Common Causes
- Ice maker defrost heater (harvest heater) has burned out
- Wiring harness to the ice maker heater is loose or damaged
- Ice maker thermistor is faulty and not signaling the heater correctly
- Ice maker control module has failed
- Excessive frost buildup in the ice maker compartment
How to Fix It
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Turn off the ice maker using the switch or button in the freezer compartment.
Give the ice maker at least 24 hours to thaw out any built-up frost.
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Manually remove any ice stuck in the ice maker tray.
Use warm water to gently melt stuck ice — never use a sharp object.
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Turn the ice maker back on and wait 24 hours to see if it resumes production.
If a frost jam was the root cause, this may resolve the 39E error.
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Power cycle the refrigerator — unplug for 5 minutes.
This resets the ice maker control board.
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If the error returns, the heater element needs professional testing and replacement.
Do not attempt to run the ice maker with a known heater failure — ice jams will worsen.
When to Call a Professional
A failed ice maker heater is not something you can fix by resetting the appliance. A technician needs to test and replace the heater assembly. Expect repair costs of $120–$250 depending on your model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the 39E error affect the rest of my refrigerator?
No — the main cooling in the fridge and freezer should continue normally. Only the ice maker is affected. Move bagged ice from your freezer to a cooler temporarily if needed.
How does the ice maker heater work?
After ice forms in the tray, a small electric heater briefly warms the bottom of the tray. This releases the ice cubes so they fall into the storage bin. When the heater fails, cubes freeze permanently to the tray.
Is a 39E repair worth it or should I just disable the ice maker?
If the refrigerator is less than 7–8 years old, repairing it is usually cost-effective. Older machines may cost more to repair than they are worth. You can also disable the ice maker and use bagged ice indefinitely with no harm to the fridge itself.