Owing a fridge is all good until it starts to malfunction. Fortunately, most of the errors that display are manageable and easy to fix. One such error us the code 22e, which pops up whenever the refrigerator fails to cool, and temperatures are about 36 degrees Fahrenheit. Your fan may also be loud, and the noise could disappear when you switch the fridge off and then back on. But what exactly could the problem be, and is it salvageable? These are some of the questions that come to mind when the error code 22E displays every time you run a diagnostic test. This article explores the potential issues, and possible solutions to fix the error permanently.
You do not have to write off your refrigerator just because of specific error keeps displaying continuously. On the contrary, these codes indicate the presence of a malfunction that needs to be solved to protect the entire refrigerator. Read on to understand how to fix this error.
What Does Code 22e Mean on a Samsing Refrigerator?
This is a fan error. It comes about when the evaporator blower malfunctions. Usually, it is a sign that the machine has broken down or is underperforming. The error displays when the fridge self-diagnoses during a restart or when switching it on the control unit. The error code appears on the display whenever the failure is detected. Depending on the model, the code can be fused as 22E or separated as 22 E. In some cases; it may be displayed on the freezer temperature display instead of the fridge display. When this happens, the machine fridge is working abnormally, and in most cases, the freezer section has too much ice while the fridge section is too warm, thus working unevenly. In most cases, the usual fan blade noise is absent, and fun tends to buzz too loudly.
How to Reset Samsung Fridge 22 e
Whenever this code appears on your refrigerator:
Press the power and lighting buttons (these are the left and right buttons) on the display
Hold then for a minimum of 8 to 10 seconds
This should sort out the uneven cooling problem. If it persists, then return the cipher designation for ensuring failure to the blower. Therefore, hold the power freeze and lighting buttons for 8 to 10 seconds. This will cause the module to beep continuously, showing the 22E error code for a minute and the fridge and freezer temperatures will be displayed.
Why Samsung Refrigerator Is Showing 22e Error Code?
The error code displays according to the fan malfunctioning. You must first access the surrounding components which are located at the internal back wall of the freezer. To access these, remove the panel and use a heat gun or blow dryer for convenience. This will prevent the flexible plastic part from failing and cracking.
1. The Blade is Lock
This can happen when debris or dirt gets stuck. It can also be caused by ice pieces or buildup of ice. You can rectify the cooling system by first powering off the refrigerator. You should then inspect the fan area and clean the surrounding area using hot flowing air. You can then clean the blades and eliminate debris. Switch the refrigerator on and allow it a few minutes, say 10 minutes, to fully restart.
2. Water Has Stagnated
Every time the drainage is clogged, then the 22E error will display. Usually, what happens is that moisture accumulates on the blade, thus getting absorbed on the fans causing the blades to freeze. You can tell that this is the case if you hear a heavy buzz or an idle run buzz. However, these sounds do not apply to the ice chamber and warm zones. Solve this issue by defrosting, installing water flow control systems on the evaporator, or by cleaning the discharge hole.
3. The Vent is Clogged
When the vent clogs, there will be improper air circulation. The buildup of ice clogs the vent, causing the 22E error to display. To fix this:
Switch the fridge off
Inspect the air cooling system duct
Eliminate any clogging
You may also have to check the temperature settings. If the controller was set to the maximum, too much cool air gets absorbed, causing ice buildup. This can be solved by simply reducing the freezing temperatures.
4. Wiring Discontinuity
The fan can be turned off if the 22E error is displayed, yet the fan is not rotating. Use a circuit analyzer to inspect the level of wire damage. In the case of visible discontinuity, use solder or splice to restore back the continuity. You may have to replace the bus if there are no visible signs of voltage blinks or defects. Proceed to check the refrigerator’s evaporating wires, which should be orange, brown, and grey. Check to see that they are connected to the CN74 circuit board. Verify the connection at the connector and solder them. Once you are sure that the connections are okay, then work on the fan motor or IC.
5. The Circuit Board is Damaged
In case the wiring has no issues, and the fan is powered correctly, then the error may be appearing due to the following:
The thyristor failure
A blown control unit
In such a case, you have to replace the damaged components.
6. The Motor Has Problems
Test to see that the motor works properly by turning the blades. The 22E error code displays if the motor is not working, yet the blades rotate freely. This may be triggered by voltage changes. You need to replace the motor (View on Amazon). The problem may also result due to dried lubricant. If this is the case, then lubricate the bearings.
7. The Melting System Has Failed
When two errors occur at a go, the 22E, and the 5E error codes, then the issue is with both the fan and defrost sensor. Due to the connectedness of these two parts, a failure in one leads to the other’s failure. Fortunately, the problem can be solved by:
Powering off the refrigerator and defrosting it
Removing the back internal panel
Removing and checking that the sensing element is okay
If you want to receive high precision sensing, put the sensor in ice-cold water, and allow it to cool for 20 to 30 minutes. Use a circuit analyzer to check it. In case the element is broken, replace it, and reset the error. If the issue lies with the defrost timer, check it manually for problems. Use a marker pen to mark the current position of the defrost timer. Place a screw inside the slot and begin to turn clockwise until it clicks runs the defrost timer. You can tell that the timer is okay if the ice begins to melt in 20 minutes; hence it cannot be the issue.
You may also want to look at the thermal controller because it can be a weak link. Every time ice melts, it can easily accumulate in the section, hindering the fan’s operations. You, therefore, need to check the temperature regulator resistance and voltage. 110V is the normal value to expect. In case you get a higher or lower value, then the system is likely not to complete the cooling or defrosting cycle, thus triggering the 22E error code on your Samsung refrigerator.
At this point, you probably have an idea of what to expect when it comes to fixing the 22 E error that displays on your refrigerator every time the fan has issues. Most of the suggestions explained above will fix the issue if it is not deeper than it looks. However, in case you attempt to rectify the error unsuccessfully, call the customer care desk for assistance. A technician will be sent to you to have an in-depth look. All electrical operations should be handled by qualified.
8. Check Defrost Sensor and Fan
A message signifying error code 22e-5e means they you actually have two errors. One reports that the defrost sensor is down and needs to be replaced. The other one reports improper work of the fan. Because the work of the latter depends on the work of the defrost sensor, these two codes have to be related. Improper functioning of the defrost sensor will affect the air flow and impede the fan’s rotation. It causes ice to build up and may disrupt the refrigerator’s functioning. Most likely, the procedure will require removal of the back panel (inside) and thawing of ice. Also, this may require a source of heat to speed up the thawing.
Once the sensor is replaced, the system will become operational. After that, there will be just one final step to clear the errors: press the top right and left buttons on the control panel simultaneously and hold them for 5 seconds. Defrost sensors are available at refrigerator part stores for about $10. As follows from the above, the whole procedure requires a few simple manipulations and can be carried out without professional assistance.
9. Problem with the Air Flow
If there’s a problem with your airflow, this can cause ice to build up as it blocks the vent system. You need to check if there are any objects blocking the vent such as ice. You should also adjust the temperature of your freezer if it’s too high as this can cause too much cold air to come in which could lead to an ice buildup.
10. There’s An Ice Build-Up
The most common reason for the error code 22e is ice build up. When ice builds up, it obstructs the fan and it prevents air from circulating the refrigerator’s interior. If you suspect this is the case, then you need to check for ice accumulation around your refrigerator.
11. There’s Ice Around The Evaporator Fan
If there’s ice built up around the fan, it’ll prevent air from moving to the coils. If air isn’t able to travel to the coils, the refrigerator can’t cool down due to it never being able to reach the right temperature.
You need to inspect the evaporator fan for ice and anything that could be blocking the fan. You’ll find the fan behind the back of the freezer. When the freezer compartment is empty, you should remove the back wall and check the fan for any broken or bent blades.
If you notice that there is an ice build up, you could unplug your refrigerator and wait for it to defrost. If there’s food in the refrigerator that can’t go wait, you can try melting the ice carefully using a hairdryer. Make sure to use it on its lowest setting as if things get too hot, then it could damage the plastic components.
Once the blades don’t have ice surrounding it, the fan should function normally. Once the ice has gone and the fan is working properly, put the back wall of the freezer back and close the door.
12. The Drain Is Obstructed
Sometimes the error will show up when the defrost drain is clogged. Because refrigerators go through a defrost cycle, the drain needs to be functioning properly so that the water has somewhere to go. Overtime, lint, ice, and debris can block the defrost drain and cause the error code 22e.
Clearing the blocked drain will allow the defrosted water to flow out which will get rid of the error code. However, clearing the block defrost drain is hard as the interior panels that house the drains aren’t easy to remove. You’ll need to get a technician to do this for you. If you want an easier fix, defrosting your refrigerator can fix the problem. You can check your user manual on instruction for when performing a manual defrost.
13. The Vent Hole is Obstructed
If the vent hole between the freezer and refrigerator section is obscructed, this can restrict airflow which is crucial for your refrigerator. If the vent hole has been clogged with ice, the refrigerator may not be cooling properly even if the freeze is working fine.
You can find the vent hole between the freezer and refrigerator. There should be no ice or any obstructions that stop cold air from circulating over to the refrigerator side. If there is any ice, you’ll need to remove it.
14. The Defrost Terminator is Faulty
If the defrost terminator is faulty, then it can cause the 22e error code. The function of this temperature-activated switch is to “terminate” defrost when the evaporator coil has been defrosted, and also to “delay” the evaporator fans from coming on immediately after defrost. The defrost terminator needs to be at it’s operating temperature before you can test it for continuity using a multimeter (view on Amazon).
To test the terminator for continuity, you need to remove it from the refrigerator and this is very difficult. You’ll need to seek professional help for this.
15. The Defrost Timer is Bad
The defrost timer is another crucial component of your refrigerator and if it’s bad, it can cause the error code 22e to show up. Defrost timers are used to shut off the refrigerator compressor and the evaporator fan motors. They turn on the defrost system at regular intervals to rid the evaporator of defrost. When it’s faulty, your refrigerator won’t be able to start a defrost cycle and your refrigerator will eventually build up with ice which will stop airflow to the refrigerator.
How To Test For 22 E Error Code
Before you determine that you refrigerator is completely done, you should test it.
Check Defrost Timer
Mark the position of the defrost timer using a pen so you know where it is.
Put a screw driver in the stem and turn it clockwise. Keep doing this until defrost mode is on.
Wait for half an house and check if the refrigerator has heated up. If the refrigerator is warm enough for ice to melt, then the device is defrost timer is good.
Use your multimeters prong and touch Prong 1 and Prong 3 of the timer
Adjust the multimeter to high Ohms (thousands) just for proper reading. Avoid using resistance as it might give an inaccurate reading.
Don’t check for Ohms if you notice that the capacitor in your refrigerator is connected with the windings in series. You’ll need to check it for micro fares instead which you can change on the multimeter.
If this doesn’t work, use the multimeters prongs, touch Prong 1 and Prong 4 and measure the resistance.
Do the same for Prong 1 and Prong 2 and you should have a reading along the lines of “no ohms (no resistance of ‘infinity’).
Turn the timer’s stem clockwise using you screwdriver until it clicks while it’s touching prongs 1 and 2. You should receive a reading along the lines of ‘closed’ (there are ohms).
Try this with Prong 1 and Prong 4 and you should receive a reading along the lines of should read ‘open’ (no ohms). If you receive both these readings, then the timer is working fine.
Check the Cold Control Thermostat
When testing the cold control thermostat, you need to test it for resistance and voltage. If you decide to test it for Ohms and it reads, no Ohms (infinity), then the system will not complete the whole cool-and-defrost cycle. When testing for resistance and voltage, it should read 110V. Make sure to test the refrigerator while it’s plugged in.
A Defective Defrost Heating Element
If the defrost heating element is bad, it can cause the error code 22e it to show up on the display. The defrost heating element in a refrigerator heats the cooling element for a short period of time and melts the frost that has formed on it. The resulting water drains through a duct at the back of the unit. If the heating element which is the coil fails, it can lead to an ice buildup since the refrigerator isn’t able to defrost.
You can test the heating coil using a multimeter and checking for voltage. It should read 120v if working correctly. Make sure the refrigerator is turned off when checking this. You can also test the element for continuity. You need to take it out from under the coil system and when you test it. If Ohms are found when connected to both prongs, then the heating element is working fine. If there’s no Ohms found, the element is failing. It’ll need to be removed and examined by a professional.
1 COMMENT
I had the same problem with my Samsung refrigerator. I found that if I unplugged it for a few hours and plugged it back in, the error code would go away.
I had the same problem with my Samsung refrigerator. I found that if I unplugged it for a few hours and plugged it back in, the error code would go away.