Samsung Refrigerators

Error Code 5

The fridge defrost sensor is failing and defrost cycles may not work

Critical

Stop using immediately - risk of damage or safety issue

Also displayed as: 5

What This Means

Defrost sensor disconnected; Defrost sensor defective; Main PCB defect; Wiring harness damaged

What actually causes this:

The defrost sensor became loose or stopped working

First Thing to Check

Check if you see frost or ice buildup in the fridge — that indicates defrost problems

Parts Involved

Fridge Defrost ThermistorMain PCB CN30

How to Fix

  1. 1

    1. Check voltage between Main PCB CN30 pins 1 and 6 should be within 4.5V to 1.0V range

  2. 2

    2. Verify sensor connector is fully seated

  3. 3

    3. Measure resistance of defrost thermistor

  4. 4

    4. Check wiring harness for damage

This Error Applies To

Samsung RF22M9581 Series Refrigerators

Service manual exact match: RF22M9581Service manual exact match: RF28M9580

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