The 39E error code on a Samsung refrigerator indicates a failure in the ice maker system. Specifically, it means the fridge has detected a malfunction in the ice maker’s ability to fill, rotate, or harvest ice cubes.
How to Fix Samsung Error Code 39E Fast
To fix Samsung Refrigerator Error Code 39E, follow these 3 steps:
- Perform a Hard Reset: Unplug the refrigerator for 10 minutes to clear the control board’s memory.
- Defrost the Ice Maker: Use a warm, wet cloth to melt any ice buildup around the ice maker sensor or mechanical arm. Do not use a hair dryer.
- Check the Wire Harness: Ensure the wiring connector at the top of the ice maker is dry and firmly plugged in.
Note: If the code returns, the Ice Maker Thermistor (Sensor) or the entire Ice Maker Assembly likely needs replacement.
Read Also: Samsung Refrigerator Leaking Water- How to Fix it
Common Causes behind Samsung Refrigerator Error Code 39 E
Depending on your specific model, this code typically points to one of the following:
- Ice Jam: A stray cube or frost buildup has jammed the ejector arm or the ice mold, preventing the unit from cycling.
- Ice Pipe Heater Failure: In some models, this code refers to a failure in the heater that keeps the water fill tube from freezing.
In general, an error code 39e on the Samsung refrigerator is caused by:
- Faulty ice maker
- Ice maker temp sensor
- Broken wires or loose connectors of the ice maker temp sensor
If the wire connector has become too wet or unprotected from the moisture, it can lose connection. The specifics of the issue could be a bit deeper, and you should check everything in the ice maker to be sure.
Ice Maker Sensor
When you get an error code 39 e, there will be something wrong with the ice maker sensor. This code could signify that several other things are going wrong with the sensor or that a major component needs to be repaired, like the ice maker.
- Failed Ice Maker Assembly: The motor or internal sensors (thermistor) inside the ice maker unit have failed.
- Wiring Issue: A loose or damaged wire harness where the ice maker connects to the fridge.
Some things that could cause the error code 39 e are:
- Faulty Dispenser – Having a bad ice dispenser will bring up code 39 e. If the maker is frozen or bits of metal are jammed inside, the computer will send the code, and you will lose functionality in the machine until it is fixed. Repeatedly pressing the arm does not make it work. Only a thaw or replacement can fix it.
- Lack of Water – Code 39 e could also mean that there has been a problem with the water flow to the maker. Often the piping used to take water from the source to the fridge could freeze or become kinked. Lack of water is an easy job, and almost anyone with some type of repair know-how can get it done.
Getting a code 39 e doesn’t necessarily mean you are in for a repair job. It is a simple code that is applied to several different malfunctions and is often a quick fix. Be sure to check all components before going in for the total replacement.
Error Code 39 E: How to Fix it
Quick Fix Steps
1. Reset the Ice Maker (The “Test” Button) Remove the ice bucket and look for a small rectangular button on the side or bottom of the ice maker unit. Press and hold it for about 5 seconds until you hear a chime. This forces a test cycle to see if the motor can turn.+1
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2. Check for Mechanical Jams Visually inspect the ice mold. If you see “half-frozen” cubes or a block of ice stuck in the ejector fingers, the motor won’t be able to turn. Use a warm, wet cloth to melt the obstruction (avoid using a hair dryer on high heat, which can melt the plastic).
3. Perform a Hard Reset Sometimes the control board just needs a “brain” refresh. Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the circuit breaker for 5–10 minutes, then power it back up.
4. Inspect the Wiring If you recently moved the fridge or cleaned it, ensure the wire harness plug (usually located at the top of the ice maker or behind a small plastic cover) is pushed in firmly and no wires are frayed.
5. Replace the Ice Maker Assembly If the code returns immediately after a reset and there are no ice jams, the internal motor or sensor has likely failed. Replacing the entire ice maker unit is a common DIY repair and usually costs between $100 and $180.
Repairing Details
In essence, an ice dispenser is a mechanical arm that spins and uncovers a hole in the ice reservoir. Once the hole is exposed, the ice plops out of the chute and into the waiting glass. If you depress the lever and see error code 39 e, it means the arm isn’t functioning, and no ice will be distributed.
The steps to repair the error code 39 e are:
- Defrost – Defrosting the ice maker is going to be your best bet for any issues. No matter how much innovation goes into fridge interior materials and plumbing, you can bet that getting the maker thawed out should fix any problems. It gets so cold inside the icebox that metal could freeze to plastic or vice versa. Frozen metal is never good for errors.
- Inspect – Once everything is free of ice and frost, you should go through and inspect the pieces. If they have been inside a cold environment for an extended period, they could have fractures or cracks that make arms not turn or water not flow into the machine correctly.
- Search – Once the fault is found, you should get in contact with Samsung. They will often replace the part, sometimes free of charge, or give you the information you need to get the part. If they don’t have the part, be ready to search with your computer, or physically, for whatever you need to get the job done.
- Replace – Now that you have the part that you need, it is time for installation. Make sure that you don’t scratch or break any of the plastic inside the fridge. Broken plastic will mean the machine doesn’t cool correctly, and you are opening yourself up for more problems down the road.
When you are complete, the machine should run without the error code and work like brand new. You should periodically check the pieces on the inside of the ice maker to ensure that you don’t have any issues with your parts or with freezing.
Read: 4 Reasons Why Samsung Fridge Is Making Knocking Noise
Other Common Error Codes
| Error Code | What it Means | The Quick Fix |
| 1E, 5E, SE | Defrost Sensor Error | Usually caused by a power outage. Try a Hard Reset (unplug for 5 mins). |
| 4C, 4E | Water Supply Issue | Check if the shut-off valve is open or the supply line is kinked. |
| 5C, 5R | Drainage Issue | Check for a clogged defrost drain or a frozen drain tube. |
| 14C | Ice Maker Sensor Error | Check connections and replace broken parts. Click here. |
| 21E or 21 V | Freezer Fan Error | Ice is likely blocking the fan. You may need to manual defrost. |
| 22E, 22C | Fridge Fan Error | Common on French Door models. Check for ice buildup behind the back panel. Click here |
| 39E | Ice Maker Failure | Reset the ice maker and check for mechanical jams. Click here |
| 40E | Ice Maker Fan Failure | Thaw fan and test it. Click here for details. |
| 83E, 85E, 86E | Inverter/Compressor Error | Often a communication glitch. Turn power off at the circuit breaker for 5 mins. |
| PC ER | Communication Error | Check the wire harness connection at the top of the door hinge. Click here |
How to Reset a Samsung Fridge Display:
If your fridge is “ghosting” (showing a code that won’t go away after a fix), press and hold the Energy Saver and Lighting buttons (or Freezer and Fridge buttons) simultaneously for 8–10 seconds until the display flashes and resets.
Read Below for a Samsung Refrigerator Comprehensive Guide
