What a Samsung fridge reset does and when you need one

A reset clears the fridge's control board and restarts its systems without erasing your saved settings like temperature or ice maker preferences. Most Samsung models have two types of reset: a soft reset (power cycle) that fixes display glitches and minor freezing, and a hard reset that restores factory defaults and clears error codes. You need a reset when the display is frozen, the ice maker stops working, temperature controls are unresponsive, or an error code appears on the screen.

The soft reset is your first move for almost any problem. The hard reset is rarer — use it only when the soft reset fails or when you want to clear all settings before selling the fridge or after a power surge. Neither reset removes stored food or changes the temperature you set before the reset.

Key Takeaways

  • A soft reset (unplugging for 10 minutes) fixes most display and control problems and is safe to try first.
  • A hard reset clears error codes and restores factory settings, but you will need to reprogram temperature and ice maker settings afterward.
  • The method for a hard reset varies by model — some use a hidden button inside the fridge, others use a button on the control panel, and some require holding buttons in a specific sequence.
  • Check your model number (on the back wall or inside the fridge frame) before attempting a hard reset, because the steps differ between French door, side-by-side, and top-freezer models.

Soft reset: power cycle your fridge

Unplug the fridge from the wall outlet or flip the circuit breaker to the OFF position. Wait 10 minutes. This clears the control board's temporary memory and restarts all systems. Plug it back in or flip the breaker back to ON.

The display may show a startup sequence or blank screen for 30 seconds — this is normal. Once the display lights up again, check whether the problem is gone. If the ice maker was stuck or the display was frozen, the soft reset usually fixes it. If an error code reappears or the problem persists, move to a hard reset.

Hard reset using the control panel button

Many newer Samsung fridges have a reset button on the control panel (the touchscreen or button panel on the front). Look for a button labeled "Reset" or "Power Cool" — some models require you to hold it for 3 to 5 seconds until the display flashes or beeps. Other models have a hidden reset option in the settings menu: press "Menu" or "Settings," scroll to "Reset" or "System," and confirm.

After a control panel reset, the fridge will restart and return to factory defaults. You will need to set the temperature again (usually 37°F for the fridge, 0°F for the freezer), turn the ice maker back on if it was off, and adjust any other preferences like water filter alerts. The reset takes about 2 to 3 minutes to complete.

Hard reset using the hidden button inside the fridge

Some Samsung models have a reset button hidden inside the fridge compartment, usually on the back wall near the top or on the side wall. Look for a small red or black button, sometimes labeled "Reset" or "Test." You may need to remove the top shelf or a panel to reach it. Press and hold the button for 3 to 10 seconds (check your manual for the exact time) until you hear a beep or see the display flash.

This method is less common on newer models but appears on many side-by-side and French door fridges made before 2018. If you cannot find the button after checking both the back and side walls, your model likely uses the control panel method instead. Do not force any panels or buttons — if something does not move easily, stop and consult your manual or contact Samsung support.

Hard reset by holding buttons in sequence

A few Samsung models require you to hold multiple buttons at once or in a specific order. The most common sequence is: hold the "Power Cool" and "Power Freeze" buttons together for 5 to 10 seconds until the display flashes or beeps. Some models ask you to press "Fridge" and "Freezer" buttons simultaneously, or to hold "Menu" and "Select" together.

The exact sequence depends on your model number, so check your manual or the Samsung support website before trying this method. Pressing the wrong buttons will not damage the fridge, but it may not reset it either. If you are unsure, a soft reset (unplugging) is always safe and solves most problems without needing to know the exact button combination.

Finding your model number and manual

Your Samsung fridge model number is printed on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the back wall or on the frame above the top shelf. It starts with "RF," "RS," "RH," or "RT" followed by numbers and letters. Write this number down — you will need it to find the correct reset instructions.

Go to samsung.com/us/support, enter your model number in the search box, and read the user manual as a PDF. The manual includes a troubleshooting section and the exact reset steps for your specific model. If you cannot find your manual online, call Samsung support at 1-800-726-7864 and provide your model number — they can walk you through the reset over the phone.

What to do if the reset does not work

If the fridge still shows an error code or the problem persists after both a soft and hard reset, the issue is likely a hardware failure rather than a software glitch. Common hardware problems include a faulty control board, a broken display, or a failed compressor. These cannot be fixed by resetting.

Check whether your fridge is still under warranty (usually 1 year from purchase). If it is, contact Samsung support with your model number and the error code — they will arrange a repair or replacement. If the warranty has expired, you can request a repair quote from Samsung or contact a local appliance repair shop. Provide the technician with your model number and the error code so they can order the correct part.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a reset erase my food or change the temperature I set?

A soft reset (unplugging) will not change anything — the fridge keeps running on backup power and remembers your settings. A hard reset clears all settings to factory defaults, so you will need to set the temperature again. Your food stays cold during both types of reset.

How long should I wait after unplugging before plugging back in?

Wait at least 10 minutes. This gives the control board time to fully discharge and clear its temporary memory. Plugging back in after only a few seconds may not clear the error or glitch you are trying to fix.

What does it mean if the display shows a code like "1E" or "SE" after a reset?

Error codes that reappear after a reset usually point to a sensor or component failure, not a software problem. Write down the code and check your manual or Samsung's website to see what it means. If the code persists, the fridge likely needs a professional repair.

Can I reset my Samsung fridge using the SmartThings app?

The SmartThings app lets you control temperature and ice maker settings remotely, but it does not have a reset function. You must reset using the physical buttons or by unplugging the fridge.

Is it safe to unplug my fridge for 10 minutes?

Yes. The fridge will stay cold enough for 10 minutes because the door stays closed and the insulation holds the temperature. Food will not spoil. Unplugging is the safest reset method and works on every Samsung model.