29E
Samsung Refrigerator
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The 29E error on a Samsung refrigerator indicates a fault with the ice maker room defrost heater circuit. The defrost heater melts frost that builds up inside the ice maker compartment. If it fails, ice accumulates quickly and eventually blocks the ice maker fan and production.
Affected Models
- RF23M8070SR
- RF28R7351SR
- RF27T5241SR
- RF28K9380SG
- Samsung models with ice room defrost heater
Common Causes
- Ice room defrost heater has burned out and is no longer heating
- Defrost thermostat for the ice room has failed open, preventing the heater from getting power
- Wiring to the defrost heater circuit is broken or has loose connections
- Control board not triggering the ice room defrost cycle
- Heavy ice buildup from a previous defrost failure now causing a second failure
How to Fix It
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Turn off the ice maker and unplug the refrigerator.
Remove all ice from the bin. You will need to perform a full manual defrost.
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Leave the freezer door open for 48 hours to fully melt all ice in the ice maker compartment.
Place towels and a tray to catch water. A bowl of warm water inside speeds up melting.
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After defrosting, dry the ice room area completely with a clean cloth.
Thorough drying prevents immediate refreezing when you plug it back in.
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Plug in the refrigerator and monitor the ice maker compartment over the next 3–5 days.
If ice accumulates rapidly and the 29E error returns, the defrost heater is confirmed faulty.
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Call a technician to replace the defrost heater and test the defrost thermostat.
Both components should be checked and replaced together — they are inexpensive parts and replacing both prevents a repeat repair call.
When to Call a Professional
The ice room defrost heater is a component that requires disassembly of the ice maker area to access. This is not a DIY repair for most homeowners. A technician should test the heater and thermostat with a multimeter to confirm which part has failed. Expect costs of $130–$260.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Samsung refrigerator's defrost heater has failed?
The clearest sign is heavy frost on the back wall of the freezer or inside the ice maker area within a few days of defrosting. If you perform a manual defrost and the frost returns quickly, the heater is likely not running. A technician can confirm by testing the heater with a multimeter.
Can I replace the ice room defrost heater myself?
It is possible if you are comfortable with appliance disassembly. You need to remove shelves, the ice bin, and the rear panel of the ice compartment. The heater is usually held in place with clips. If you are unsure, it is safer to have a technician do it.
Will this error go away on its own?
No — a failed defrost heater will not heal itself. Manual defrosting will clear the error temporarily, but it will return within days as ice rebuilds. The only permanent fix is replacing the faulty heater or thermostat.