A freezer temperature sensor controls the defrost system in your appliance by signaling the control board when to start or stop the defrost cycle based on the freezer’s temperature. If the sensor fails, your freezer might struggle to maintain proper temperatures, leading to issues like melting ice cream or a fridge that runs constantly. Fortunately, replacing the sensor is a simple task you can complete in just a few minutes.
Follow this guide to replace the temperature sensor in the freezer compartment of a Samsung French door refrigerator.
Common Signs of a Faulty Temperature Sensor
Recognizing the signs of a malfunctioning temperature sensor can help you address issues early. Here are some indications that the sensor might need replacing:
- The freezer is too warm, causing food to melt or spoil.
- Frost buildup in the freezer compartment due to improper defrosting.
- The refrigerator or freezer runs continuously without cycling off.
- Error codes on the refrigerator’s display panel related to temperature regulation.
- Inconsistent freezer temperatures despite adjusting the thermostat.
Find the Correct Replacement Part
To get the right replacement part for your Samsung refrigerator, you’ll need the model number of your appliance.
Look for the model number on a sticker located in one of these common areas:
- Exterior: On the door or sides of the appliance.
- Interior: Inside the door frame, on the ceiling of the freezer/refrigerator, or on the inside walls of either compartment.
- Other locations: On the fridge floor under the crisper drawers or behind the kickplate at the bottom.
Benefits of Replacing the Sensor Promptly
Replacing a faulty temperature sensor promptly can save you time and money while maintaining the efficiency of your refrigerator. Here’s why it’s important:
- Prevents Food Spoilage: A functioning sensor ensures that food stays frozen or refrigerated at safe temperatures.
- Improves Energy Efficiency: A working sensor prevents the appliance from overworking, reducing electricity consumption.
- Avoids Further Damage: Ignoring a faulty sensor can strain other components, potentially leading to costly repairs.
- Restores Proper Operation: Fixing the sensor allows the refrigerator to run smoothly without constant cycling or temperature fluctuations.
Read more: 10 Easy Steps to Get Your Freezer Clean Like a Pro
How to Replace the Freezer Temperature Sensor in a Samsung Refrigerator
Follow these steps to safely and effectively replace the freezer temperature sensor in your Samsung refrigerator.
Preparation
- Remove all items from the freezer compartment and store them in a temperature-safe container.
- Clear any frost buildup if present.
- Unplug the refrigerator or turn off its circuit breaker to cut power completely.
Remove Components
- Pull the drawer out slightly.
- Raise the rails as far as they will go.
- Tilt the bin upward and carefully remove it from the freezer.
- Open the refrigerator doors to gain more clearance.
- Lift the basket from the back and slide it backward to release it.
- Remove the basket and close the refrigerator doors.
- Open the freezer door fully.
- Use a 10mm socket and ratchet to remove the four bolts securing the door (two on each side inside the rails).
- Press down on the rails to release them from the tabs.
- Lift the door off the freezer rails and set it aside.
- Push the black bar to the right to free it from the left gear.
- Remove the rod and set it aside.
- Push the rails back into the freezer cavity.
- Pull off the plastic cover from the front of the ice maker.
- Remove the screws securing the ice maker with a Phillips screwdriver.
- Pull the ice maker forward slightly to release it from the mounting tabs, letting it drop slightly.
- Disconnect the wire harness by pressing down the locking tab, then remove the ice maker.
- Remove the two Phillips screws securing the back panel.
- Pop the panel off, starting at the bottom and tilting it back to release the top.
- Disconnect the three wire harnesses attached to the panel.
- Remove the back panel completely.
- Squeeze the metal cover near the plugs to release its tabs and remove it.
Replace the Temperature Sensor
- Release the white plastic clip holding the sensor wires on the copper tubing.
- Clip and remove the two zip ties securing the sensor wire.
- Slide and pop off the plastic bracket holding the sensor probe.
- Disconnect the large wire harness block from the freezer wall by depressing its locking tabs.
- Use a flathead screwdriver to lift the tabs on the harness block and remove the sensor plug.
- Thread the new sensor’s wire through the locking tabs on the harness block.
- Snap the plastic harness into place.
- Reconnect the harness block to the freezer.
- Run the new sensor’s wire through the clip and secure it.
- Snap the probe into the plastic bracket.
- Attach the bracket to the line and slide it into place.
- Use new zip ties to secure the wire and trim the excess.
Reassemble
- Replace the metal cover on the wire harness block.
- Plug the three wire harnesses back into the freezer wall.
- Position the back panel, seating the top first and securing the bottom.
- Reinstall the two screws.
- Reconnect the wire harness to the ice maker.
- Mount the ice maker in place, pressing it into the ceiling of the freezer compartment.
- Reinstall the screws and replace the plastic cover.
- Attach the connecting rod, mounting it on the right gear first, then the left.
- Place the door back onto the rails, aligning it properly.
- Secure the door with the four bolts removed earlier.
- Open the refrigerator doors to provide clearance.
- Lower the basket into position, locking it onto the tabs.
- Position the drawer on the glides with the slides fully extended.
- Test the drawer to make sure it moves smoothly.
- Plug the refrigerator back in or turn the circuit breaker back on.
- Confirm the freezer and refrigerator are operating correctly with the new temperature sensor.
Read more: Refrigerator or Freezer That’s Too Warm: Top 6 Reasons and Fixes
Key Takeaways
Replacing a broken temperature sensor in your Samsung freezer might seem like a small job, but it’s one worth doing. That little part directly affects your food’s freshness, how efficiently your freezer runs, and whether it cycles correctly. Fixing it now avoids spoiled food, frost issues, and higher electricity bills.
Luckily, this is a task you can handle without calling for professional help. With a bit of preparation and a few tools, you’ll have it sorted in no time. If your freezer shows signs of trouble, like inconsistent temperatures or constant running, swapping out the sensor could solve the problem. A simple DIY repair can bring your appliance back to its best and save you the hassle of bigger problems later.