Samsung Refrigerator 39E Error: Ice maker malfunction
If your Samsung appliance is showing this error, you’re dealing with a samsung refrigerator 39e error. Here’s everything you need to know about diagnosing and fixing this issue. Samsung 39e error code — here is what you need to know. What It Means Error code 39E on Samsung refrigerators indicates a mechanical malfunction in the […]
No
DIY Fixable
From $200
Typical Repair Cost
60-120 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Maybe.
Can I reset the code?
Yes.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: The ice maker motor emits a burning smell or runs continuously without stopping, Water is leaking from the ice maker area due to a jam blocking the fill cycle.
Symptoms You May Notice
Ice maker not ejecting ice cubes
The ice maker fills with water and freezes cubes, but the ejection cycle does not complete and ice remains stuck in the tray.
Grinding or clicking noise from ice maker
The ice maker motor attempts to turn but encounters resistance, producing a repetitive grinding, clicking, or buzzing sound.
Ice bin empty despite ice maker being on
The ice maker appears to be powered and active, but no ice accumulates in the bin over 24 or more hours.
Dispenser delivers no ice or only fragments
The ice dispenser produces only small chips or nothing at all because the ice maker is not delivering full cubes to the bin.
Possible Causes
Ice jam in ejection mechanism
Ice cubes or fragments are stuck between the ejector arms and the tray wall, mechanically preventing the motor from completing its rotation cycle.
DIY PossibleFailed ice maker motor
The small motor that drives the ejector arms has burned out or its gears have stripped, preventing the mechanical ejection cycle from operating.
Requires ProfessionalObstructed ice level sensor
Frost, ice dust, or a misaligned ice bin is blocking the infrared ice level sensor, causing the control board to think the bin is full and stopping production.
DIY PossibleSafe Checks You Can Do
-
1
Clear ice jams
Remove the ice bin and inspect the ice maker ejection area for jammed cubes. Gently remove any stuck ice with a plastic utensil. Do not use metal tools that could damage the tray coating.
Warm water poured over the stuck area can help loosen firmly jammed ice without damaging components.
-
2
Clean the ice level sensor
Locate the small optical sensor on the side wall of the ice room. Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth to remove frost, ice dust, or fingerprints that may be blocking the infrared beam.
The sensor usually has a small LED that glows red — if it is obscured, the ice maker thinks the bin is full.
-
3
Run a manual test cycle
Press and hold the ice maker test button for 3 seconds. The ice maker should begin a test cycle — the motor turns, the tray rotates, and the fill valve opens briefly. If the motor does not engage at all, it may be failed.
The test button location varies by model — check your Samsung manual or the label inside the ice room door.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- The ice maker motor does not engage at all during a manual test cycle
- The ejector arms visibly skip or slip, indicating stripped motor gears
- The 39E code returns repeatedly after clearing ice jams, suggesting a motor or sensor failure
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
Refrigerator Repair Service Schedule Appointment