Fridge Defrost Sensor Error

Home Appliance Error Codes Samsung Refrigerators

Can you still use it? With care until repaired

Who can fix it? Needs a technician

Typical repair time 45 minutes – 2 hours

Typical cost SAR 100 to 1,500

What it means

This code appears on Samsung refrigerators with a digital display when the fridge compartment defrost sensor reads open or illogical. The control board cannot end the defrost cycle correctly, so ice builds up gradually and cooling in the fridge section weakens. The same code can mean something else on other brands, and its meaning may differ between some Samsung series.

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

Symptoms4

5E flashes on the temperature display.
Cooling in the fridge section weakens gradually over several days.
Ice builds up on the rear wall inside the fridge section.
A fridge fan code may follow because of the ice.

Possible causes5

Failed defrost sensor.
Loose or corroded connector in the sensor circuit from moisture.
Damaged wire between the sensor and the control board.
Thick ice or frozen water around the sensor after a drain problem.
Control board fault (less common).

How to diagnose5

Make sure the doors close tightly and keep them closed as much as possible.
Unplug the fridge for a few minutes, then restart it and see whether the code returns.
If there is heavy ice, do a manual defrost after moving the food to a cool place.
A technician unplugs the fridge before removing the inner cover, then measures the sensor and compares the reading with the manufacturer table.
The technician checks the connectors and wiring back to the control board, then the board itself if the sensor is good.

How to fix6

Do a manual defrost as a stopgap if ice is blocking the cooling.
Clean or tighten a corroded connector.
Repair a damaged wire between the sensor and the control board.
Replace the defrost sensor if its reading is out of specification.
Repair or replace the control board only if it is confirmed as the cause.
After restarting, confirm steady cooling, no ice buildup and no return of the code.

Repair cost

0–200

200–600

600–1,500

1,500+

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

The cost is low for a new sensor or a connector repair, and reaches the high end only if the control board must be replaced.

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

Will a manual defrost fix 5E?

It may restore cooling for a while, but a faulty sensor will let ice build up again, so the sensor or its circuit needs checking.

Does 5E mean the same on all Samsung fridges?

It may differ in some series, so match the code with the user manual for your model before repairing.

Is the food safe with this code?

The freezer usually stays cold, but watch the fridge section temperature and throw away perishable food if it has warmed up.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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