Error Code 81
The compressor won't start or keeps stopping
Critical
Stop using immediately - risk of damage or safety issue
Also displayed as: 81
What This Means
Inverter PCB soldering defect or short circuit; Low DC voltage supply (below 13.5V); Compressor or cycle defect; Main PCB communication failure
What actually causes this:
The compressor control board has a bad solder joint or power supply is too low
First Thing to Check
Check if you hear any buzzing or clicking from the back of the fridge — that indicates compressor trying to start
Parts Involved
How to Fix
- 1
1. Check soldering quality on Inverter PCB for cold joints or shorts
- 2
2. Measure DC 15V output on inverter — should not be less than 13.5V
- 3
3. Check compressor power connections
- 4
4. Verify communication between Main and Inverter PCB
- 5
5. Check refrigerant cycle integrity
This Error Applies To
Samsung RF22M9581 Series Refrigerators
Related Error Codes
The freezer fan is not working
The freezer is running colder than normal or the sensor thinks it is
The main control board can't talk to the display
The ice bucket heater is not working
The FlexZone compartment has gotten too warm
The humidity monitoring sensor is not working
The compressor power controller has detected an internal fault
The outdoor temperature sensor is not working