Fixing a Samsung Freezer That Won’t Freeze

Is your Samsung freezer not freezing properly? Perhaps you’ve noticed your food is not as cold as it should be, or maybe it’s just not working at all. Although it may be stressful and frustrating, don’t panic and start researching new appliances just yet. We’ve got some easy-to-implement fixes that can have your freezer working again in no time. 

This guide applies to all common models of Samsung freezers, including:

RB1844SLXAA

RB217ABPN

RF217ACPN

RF266ABPN

RF266AEPN

RF267ABRS

RF267AERS

RF268ABRS

RF4287HARSXAA

RFG297AARS

RFG298AARS

RFG298HDRS

RS2530BBP

RS2630SHXAA

RS2630WWXAA

RS265TDRS

RS267LABP

RS267LASH

RS269LARS

RS2777SL

RSG257AARS

Check The Temperature Setting

The first step is to make sure that the temperature settings are correct. If your freezer temperature has been changed or set too low, your freezer won’t be able to reach the optimal temperature for freezing. The perfect freezer temperature is at or below 0°F (-18°C)—anything higher and your food won’t freeze properly. 

If the temperature is to blame for your freezer issues, you may notice that everything else regarding your freezer is working as normal. The fan will be working, the light will be working—the only issue is the food isn’t cold enough. To fix this problem:

• Check the temperature settings. The location of the temperature control will vary depending on the model of your refrigerator. In some models you’ll find it on the interior of the freezer door, while in others, you can change the temperature from the external control panel. 
• Check the temperature setting. If it’s set above 0°F (-18°C), adjust it to the recommended level. 
• Give your freezer at least 24 hours to attain the correct temperature. Make sure you don’t open the door too often during this time. 
• Check if the issue has been resolved. If it’s still not freezing properly, try one of the other fixes in our guide. 

Check Door Gaskets

Faulty door seals are a common reason behind an underperforming freezer. The door seals, or door gaskets, run along the interior of the freezer door and work to keep an airtight barrier, preventing cold air from getting out and warm air from getting in. If the seals are damaged or faulty in some way, warm air will be able to get into the freezer, causing the interior to be too warm. 

Some signs that this is your issue include:

• Your freezer making more noise than usual as it tries to maintain its internal temperature. 
• Frost or condensation building up inside the freezer compartment, particularly near the door
• The door may seem to not shut properly, and the door indicator may beep even when the door appears closed. 

To fix this:

• Carefully check the freezer door seal. If it appears damaged, cracked, or loose, it will need replacing. 
• Check that the door seal isn’t dirty. Sometimes, mildew or grime buildup can prevent the door from sealing shut. If it appears dirty, thoroughly clean it with warm water and detergent.
• If the seal is damaged, order a replacement seal that is compatible with your model of Samsung freezer. Remove the old seal and press the new one into place, ensuring you install it firmly. 
• Wait for 24 hours to see if the freezer attains the correct temperature. 

Check The Evaporator Fan

The evaporator fan circulates cold air throughout the interior of your freezer compartment. If it’s faulty, your freezer won’t be able to stay cold, and you might notice your food is spoiling. If this is your issue, your freezer will still be working somewhat, but there may be sections of the freezer that are colder than others. It may also be quieter than it should be due to an obstructed fan. 

To fix this:

• Gain access to the evaporator fan. This is usually located at the back of the freezer compartment in most Samsung models, behind a panel. Check your manual for specific instructions pertaining to your model. 
• Check the fan for obstructions. Sometimes ice or debris can block the fan blades, preventing them from spinning and circulating air. 
• If the fan blade is frozen, use a hairdryer on a low setting to defrost it, then check that the fan can spin unimpeded. 
• If the fan looks to be broken or is not spinning at all, it will need replacing. Order a replacement part that is compatible with your freezer
• Remove the faulty fan, and install the replacement fan in place, ensuring that you connect the wiring in the same way. 
• Once installed, wait for 24 hours to allow the freezer to reach the correct temperature. 

Remove Ice Buildup

This might sound crazy, but too much ice and frost is actually a sign that your freezer isn’t cold enough! Most modern freezers have an automatic defrost setting, but if yours is an older model or if your auto defrost isn’t working properly, you may have excess frost. Removing the frost buildup can clear blocked vents and allow cold air to circulate properly through the freezer compartment, which improves its cooling. Here’s how to fix this issue:

• Unplug your Samsung freezer.
• Remove all food from the interior of the freezer and place it in a cooler. 
• You can now either wait for the ice to melt or use a hairdryer to speed up the process. If you do choose to use a hairdryer, make sure it’s on a low setting so you don’t damage the plastic. 
• Pay particular attention to ice buildup around the freezer vents or the condenser fan. 
• Once the ice has melted, thoroughly dry the freezer interior, then replace your food. Make sure that the freezer is no more than ⅔ full so that air can circulate properly. 
• Wait 24 hours to see if the freezer is now at the correct temperature.