Error Code 81
Compressor failed to start up
Moderate
Address soon - your appliance may not work properly
Also displayed as: LED 81 blink / 1 blink on Inverter LED
What This Means
Short between compressor U/V/W terminals (CN04); Short between IPM pins (#1–26); IPM operating voltage below DC 13.5V; Compressor mechanical fault; Refrigeration cycle issue
What actually causes this:
The compressor could not start — either its windings are shorted, or the inverter board isn't supplying enough voltage to drive it.
First Thing to Check
Wait 5 minutes after power-on (normal startup delay) and check if the compressor eventually runs.
Parts Involved
How to Fix
- 1
Check for shorts between compressor terminals U, V, W at CN04
- 2
Inspect IPM pins on Inverter PBA for shorts
- 3
Measure IPM operating voltage — must be above DC 13.5V
- 4
Check compressor and refrigeration cycle
- 5
Verify inverter board CN103 pin #1 to #3 voltage is 2–2.5V (RPM control signal)
This Error Applies To
Samsung RS27FDBTNS Series Refrigerators (2016) (2016–present)
Related Error Codes
Main board and I/O expander board have lost communication
Fridge defrost sensor has failed or lost connection
Fridge cooling fan motor is not spinning or sending feedback
Freezer temperature sensor has failed or disconnected
Ambient room temperature sensor has failed or disconnected
Fridge temperature sensor has failed or disconnected
Ice maker temperature sensor has failed or disconnected
Main board and inverter compressor board have lost communication