The basic power-on process
Most Samsung refrigerators arrive at your home already plugged in but not running. To turn it on, plug the unit into a standard outlet, wait about five minutes for the compressor to initialize, and then press the power button on the control panel inside the fridge or on the exterior display (depending on your model). The display should light up, and you'll hear the compressor begin to hum within a few minutes.
If your Samsung has a power switch on the back or side of the unit near the plug, make sure that switch is in the ON position before plugging in. Some models require both the back switch and the interior button to be activated. Check your model's manual to confirm which controls explore to yours.
Once the refrigerator is running, set your desired temperature using the control panel. Samsung fridges typically default to around 37°F for the fridge section and 0°F for the freezer, but you can adjust these settings based on your preference and what you're storing.
Key Takeaways
- Plug the refrigerator into a standard outlet and wait five minutes before expecting it to run, as the compressor needs time to start up.
- Press the power button on the interior control panel or exterior display, depending on which your model has.
- Check for a back power switch near the plug on some models—both the switch and the button may need to be on.
- Allow 24 hours for the fridge to reach its target temperature before loading it with food.
- If nothing happens after 10 minutes, check that the outlet has power by plugging in another device.
What to do if the refrigerator won't turn on
Start by confirming the outlet itself works. Plug a lamp or phone charger into the same outlet—if that device powers on, the outlet is fine. If the outlet is dead, try a different outlet in the kitchen or have an electrician check the circuit.
Next, look for a power switch on the back of the unit near the compressor. Some Samsung models have a manual switch that must be flipped to ON before the refrigerator will respond to button presses. This switch is straightforward to miss because it's often tucked behind the unit.
If the outlet works and the back switch is on, press and hold the power button on the control panel for three to five seconds. Some models require a longer press to set up. If the display still doesn't light up after 10 minutes, the control board may have failed, and you'll need to contact Samsung service.
Understanding the control panel and display
Samsung refrigerators use either a mechanical dial (older models) or a digital touchscreen (newer models). Mechanical dials have numbers 1 through 7, where 1 is the warmest setting and 7 is the coldest. Digital displays show temperature in Fahrenheit or Celsius and allow you to adjust settings with buttons or touch.
When you first turn on the fridge, the display may show a startup sequence or a brief message. This is normal. The compressor will not run at full power when ready—it ramps up over the first 30 minutes as the system pressurizes. You may hear clicking, humming, or a brief whooshing sound during this time.
If your model has a demo mode or showroom mode, the display will light up but the compressor won't run. This mode is sometimes left on by accident during delivery. To turn it off, look for a Demo or Mode button on the control panel and press it until the display shows normal operation. Your manual will specify which button to use.
How long it takes to reach the right temperature
A newly powered-on Samsung refrigerator typically takes 2 to 4 hours to cool to 37°F and 4 to 8 hours to freeze to 0°F. Do not load food into the fridge during this time—wait until it has reached its target temperature, which you can confirm by placing a thermometer inside for 15 minutes.
If the fridge is in a very warm room (above 90°F) or has poor ventilation around the back and sides, it may take longer to cool. Make sure there is at least 2 inches of clearance on all sides and at least 4 inches above the unit for air to circulate. A cramped space forces the compressor to work harder and slows cooling.
Checking the water and ice dispenser
If your Samsung has an ice maker or water dispenser, these features do not turn on automatically when you power on the refrigerator. You must locate the water supply line connection at the back of the unit and may support it is connected to your home's cold water line. If the water line is not connected, the ice maker will not produce ice and the dispenser will not work.
Once the water line is connected, the ice maker takes 6 to 12 hours to produce its first batch of ice. During this time, the system is filling the lines with water and freezing the first cycle. If no ice appears after 24 hours, check that the water line is not kinked or blocked, and confirm the water supply valve is fully open.
When to call Samsung service
If the refrigerator has been plugged in and powered on for more than 30 minutes and the compressor is not running (you should hear a steady hum), the control board or compressor may be faulty. Contact Samsung customer service with your model number, which is printed on a sticker inside the fridge or on the back of the unit.
If the display lights up but the compressor never starts, or if the fridge cools for a few hours and then stops, do not attempt to repair it yourself. These issues require professional diagnosis. Samsung offers phone support and can arrange a technician visit if the unit is still under warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Samsung refrigerator humming but not cooling?
The compressor may still be initializing—wait 30 minutes from the moment you plugged it in. If it's still not cooling after an hour, the thermostat or compressor may be faulty. Check that the back power switch is fully on and that the temperature dial or digital setting is not set to the warmest position by mistake.
Do I need to let the refrigerator sit before plugging it in?
If the fridge was transported on its side or at an angle, let it stand upright for 4 to 6 hours before plugging it in. This allows the oil in the compressor to settle. If it was transported upright, you can plug it in when ready.
What does demo mode mean and how do I turn it off?
Demo mode lights up the display and interior lights but disables the compressor so the unit doesn't cool. It's used in stores to show the fridge without running up electricity costs. Press the Demo or Mode button on the control panel repeatedly until the display shows normal operation, or consult your manual for the exact button sequence.
Can I adjust the temperature right after turning on the refrigerator?
Yes, you can set the temperature when ready, but the fridge won't reach that temperature for several hours. Set it to your desired level (usually 37°F for the fridge and 0°F for the freezer) and let the unit run without opening the door for at least 2 hours before adding food.
Why does my new Samsung refrigerator smell bad when I first turn it on?
New refrigerators often have a plastic or chemical smell from manufacturing and packaging materials. This is normal and will fade within a few days of operation. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth and leave the door open for 30 minutes to help the smell dissipate faster.