Code: 39E🧊 Samsung Refrigerator

Samsung Refrigerator Error Code 39E (39C): Ice Maker Function Error

Reviewed 2026-10-23 · Based on 5 manufacturer & service sources

What the code means

Samsung US lists 39E and 39C as Ice Maker Function Error, separate from the ice maker sensor codes (8E, 14E). Samsung's service manual for the RF28HDEDB French-door fridge explains what a function error is: the board logs a fault each time the ice maker fails during its cycle, and once that fault has happened more than 3 times it displays the function error. The manual lists a function error for the freezer ice maker and one for the ice maker in the fresh-food (fridge) compartment, and for the fridge-compartment ice maker its diagnostic step is simply to replace the ice maker and check that it runs. In practice that means 39E points to an ice maker that couldn't finish its harvest, either because something physically stopped it (ice frozen around the tray, cubes jammed against a full or crooked bucket) or because the ice maker assembly's motor or electronics failed, with a loose connector or the main board as less common causes.

Likely causes

Safe DIY checks

⚠ Before you start

Unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) and shut off the water supply valves before removing panels or disconnecting hoses. Keep towels handy for residual water.

  1. Write down the code and your full model number. Samsung asks you not to unplug the fridge or keep pressing panel buttons to make an error code go away unless its steps tell you to, because that makes it harder for a technician to diagnose. Family Hub owners can see current and past codes under Apps, Fridge Manager, Fridge Settings, Self Check.
  2. Check that the ice maker is actually on: on most models the Ice Off icon should not be lit, and Family Hub models control this in the Fridge Manager app.
  3. Remove the ice bucket (lift it gently and pull it out with both hands). Empty it, and take out anything that isn't ice, such as a scoop or food. Samsung says items in the bucket can make the ice maker think the bucket is full.
  4. Look for ice frozen over the tray or wedged between the ice maker and the bucket. A frozen ice bucket may need service; don't force it out or pry at the ice maker with tools.
  5. Reset the ice maker once: with the bucket out, press and hold the Test button on the ice maker until it chimes, which can take up to 10 seconds. Don't press Test repeatedly once the tray is full of water or ice, because Samsung warns it can overflow or jam.
  6. Watch the test. On an ice maker in the fridge compartment it takes about 6 minutes, and at the end the water valve should hum and fill the tray. One chime means the ice maker passed. If it chimes several times, Samsung says to request service.
  7. If the ice maker doesn't chime or move at all, Samsung's reset guide says to turn the fridge off at the plug or breaker for 2 minutes and try the Test button again.
  8. Put the bucket back until it clicks into place. If it won't seat, Samsung says to turn the helix (the auger at the back of the bucket) 90 degrees and try again.
  9. Give it time: Samsung says ice should start within about 3 hours and may take 24 hours to reach normal output. If 39E comes back or there's still no ice, request service.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • 39E stays on or comes back after a single ice maker reset.
  • The ice maker chimes several times during the test, or does nothing even after a 2-minute power cycle.
  • Replacing the ice maker assembly, which is the repair Samsung's service manual lists for this function error. On French-door models this means taking the ice maker out of the ice room in the fridge door and unplugging its housing connector.
  • Checking the ice maker wiring and main board if a new ice maker doesn't clear the code.
  • The fridge is under warranty; Samsung warranty repairs need to go through a Samsung authorized service center.

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

⚙

Ice maker assembly

Only after ice jams have been cleared and the Test button reset has failed. Samsung uses different ice makers on different models, so match the part to your full model number.

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Sources

  1. Samsung US: Samsung refrigerator error codes (39E, 39C: Ice Maker Function Error; don't unplug or clear codes unless directed; Family Hub Self Check)
  2. Samsung US: Reset the ice maker in the fridge compartment or Side-by-Side freezer (Test button, 2-minute power cycle, one chime passes, multiple chimes request service, turn the helix 90 degrees)
  3. Samsung US: Samsung ice maker is not working (Ice Off icon, items in bucket, test takes about 6 minutes in the fridge compartment, 3 to 24 hours for ice, frozen bucket may need service)
  4. Samsung UK: Fridge freezer ice maker not working, how to test and reset (hold Test 3 to 10 seconds, don't press it multiple times)
  5. Samsung RF28HDEDBSR service manual, self-diagnostics check list (ice maker function error shown after the ice maker error occurs more than 3 times; replace the ice maker and check operation) (via ManualsLib)

Last reviewed 2026-10-23. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.