Home Fault Codes

Samsung Refrigerator Error Code 21E: Meaning and Fix

21E
How 21E appears on a Samsung refrigerator display.
Samsung Refrigerator Evaporator Fan Motor (part DA31-00146E), shown as the reference photo for code 21E
Product photo via AppliancePartsPros.com (Samsung OEM part)

Reading the refrigerator display

On a refrigerator the code shows on the control panel or dispenser display. Some models flash a letter or alternate two characters; hold the code in view and note both. Samsung codes combine a digit with a letter, and some alternate with the cycle time.

Samsung displays numeric-plus-letter codes such as 4C, 5E or 21E, and many models run a Smart Care self-check through the app. Washers and dryers often use letter pairs, refrigerators use number plus E. The codes apply to model numbers such as DW80R5061US, DW80K7050US and DV45T6000EW; check the label on your unit to confirm yours.

What causes 21E

How to fix it

  1. Unplug the refrigerator and leave both doors open for a few hours so any ice melts.
  2. Make sure the fridge is not packed so full that a door cannot close.
  3. Check the door gaskets seal fully all around.
  4. Plug it back in and listen for the fan inside the freezer.
  5. If the fan is frozen again or dead, replace the evaporator fan motor.

Parts you may need

PartPart no.Buy
Refrigerator Evaporator Fan MotorDA31-00146EFind part
Refrigerator Evaporator Fan MotorDA81-06013AFind part

Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Some links are affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Questions

Is 21E a cooling failure?

It can become one, since air cannot circulate without the fan.

Can I clear it by defrosting?

Often yes, if ice is the cause.

How do I know the fan is bad?

It stays silent and the blades do not turn even when the freezer is defrosted.

Other Samsung refrigerator codes

Samsung Refrigerator Fan Motor (part DA31-00146B), shown as the reference photo for code 22E22EFridge fan errorSamsung Refrigerator Defrost Thermostat (part DA47-00243K), shown as the reference photo for code 5E5EDefrost sensor errorSamsung Refrigerator Ice Maker Assembly (part DA97-15217D), shown as the reference photo for code 8E8EIce maker (freezer) sensor errorSamsung Refrigerator Ice Maker Assembly (part DA97-07603B), shown as the reference photo for code 14E14EIce maker sensor errorSamsung Refrigerator Ice Maker Assembly (part DA97-15217D), shown as the reference photo for code 33E33EIce pipe heater errorSamsung Refrigerator Ice Maker Assembly (part DA97-07603B), shown as the reference photo for code 39E39EIce maker function error

Sources

Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Meanings compiled from manufacturer and parts-retailer documentation; see sources below. Unplug the appliance before opening it.

Applies to models including RF28R7551SR, RF28R6201SR, RF23J9011SR, RS27T5200SR, RF263BEAESR, RT18M6215SR.