Freezer Fan Error

What it means

This code appears on Samsung refrigerators with a digital display when the freezer fan does not turn, or its speed signal does not reach the control board. The fridge usually keeps running, but cold air is not spread well, so the freezer warms gradually and the fridge section can be affected too. The same code can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Samsung refrigerators with a digital display; the code usually flashes on the temperature display. Codes differ between some series.

Related codes: 22E40E5E23EOF OF

Symptoms4

• 21E flashes on the temperature display.
• The freezer is warmer than usual and ice cream turns soft.
• No fan sound inside the freezer, or a scraping or ticking sound.
• Ice buildup on the rear panel inside the freezer in some cases.

Possible causes6

• Ice around the freezer fan blades stopping it from turning, often from a defrost problem.
• Freezer door not sealing, letting moisture in that freezes around the fan.
• Items packed against the air vents or touching the fan cover.
• Failed freezer fan motor.
• Loose connector or damaged wire between the fan and the control board.
• Control board fault (less common).

How to diagnose6

1. Make sure the freezer door closes tightly, the seal is intact and nothing blocks it.
2. Move items away from the air vents on the rear wall of the freezer.
3. Listen for the fan with the door slightly open and the door switch pressed if there is one; scraping or ticking suggests ice around the blades.
4. If there is ice, a manual defrost can be done: unplug the fridge, move food to a cool place and leave the doors open with towels to catch the water until the ice has fully melted.
5. If the code returns after defrosting, a technician unplugs the fridge before removing the inner cover, then checks the fan motor, its wiring and the defrost system.
6. If the motor is good, the technician checks the control board output to the fan.

How to fix6

1. Fix the door closing or replace a damaged seal, and keep items away from the vents.
2. Do a full manual defrost if the fan is surrounded by ice.
3. The technician fixes the cause of the ice, such as the defrost heater or defrost sensor.
4. Replace the freezer fan motor if confirmed faulty.
5. Repair the wiring or control board if confirmed as the cause.
6. Run the fridge and confirm the fan turns, temperatures return to normal and the code does not appear.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The cost starts at a technician visit with a new fan motor, and reaches the high end if the defrost system or control board also needs repair.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions