How to turn off the freezer in a Samsung refrigerator: instructions for different models

Disconnecting the freezer compartment in the refrigerator Samsung may be needed in a variety of situations: from temporary energy savings to complete repurposing of equipment for the needs of storing only chilled products. However, not all models support this function equally - it all depends on the type of cooling system, the number of compressors, and even the year of manufacture of the device. In this article, we will figure out how to safely and correctly deactivate the freezer without disturbing the operation of the main compartment.

It is important to understand that incorrect actions can lead to malfunction of the refrigerator, increased wear on the compressor, or even failure of the equipment. For example, in models with one compressor the complete shutdown of the freezer is often blocked by the manufacturer, while in two-compressor systems this option is available by default. We will look at both options in detail, and also give recommendations for preparing the refrigerator for long-term downtime of the freezer.

If you plan to use the refrigerator without a freezer constantly, it is worth assessing the consequences in advance: a change in the temperature regime in the main compartment, possible condensation formation or even ice crusts in areas with No Frost. For some models Samsung (for example, series RB or RF) there are hidden service settings that allow you to flexibly configure the operation of the system - we also touch on them in the manual.

1. Is it possible to disable the freezer in a Samsung refrigerator: technical limitations

Before you start manipulating the settings, you need to understand whether your model supports this function. Refrigerators Samsung are divided into three main categories according to the type of cooling system:

• 🔹 Single-compressor models (for example, Samsung RT-22, RR-19): the freezer and refrigerator compartment operate from the same motor. In most cases complete shutdown of the freezer is impossible without physically turning off the power or removing the sensors.
• 🔹 Two-compressor models (series RF, RS, RH): each compartment has its own compressor. Here the freezer can be turned off programmatically through the control panel.
• 🔹 Models with the No Frost system (for example, Samsung RB-30, RB-37): even when the freezer is turned off, the fans can continue to work, which requires additional actions.

To accurately determine the type of your model, look at the nameplate (usually located on the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment or on the back of the case). If the name contains letters TWIN or DUAL it is a two-compressor system. Models with No Frost are characterized by the presence of ventilation holes on the back wall of the freezer.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Samsung manufactured before 2018 with the system No Frost when the freezer is turned off, it may automatically activate defrost mode, which will lead to the formation of puddles inside the chamber. Before deactivating, make sure that the drainage hole is clean.

If your model does not support software shutdown, there are two options left:

1. Physically turn off the power to the freezer (requires disassembling the case and working with electricity).
2. Set the temperature to maximum (+8...+10°C), which will actually stop freezing, but will not shut down the system completely.

2. Step-by-step instructions for two-compressor models

In refrigerators Samsung with two compressors (for example Samsung RF23, RS-552), the freezer can be turned off via the control panel. Algorithm of actions:

1. Press the button Fridge (Refrigerator) on the display to go to the refrigerator compartment settings.
2. Hold the button Freezer (Fridge) for 5 seconds until the indicator appears OFF.
3. Confirm the action with the button OK or wait for automatic saving (depending on the model).

On some models (for example, Samsung RH-60), you may need to log in service menu. To do this:

1. Press and hold the buttons Power Cool + Power Freeze 10 seconds.
2. In the menu that appears, select item FZ OFF (or Freezer Control).
3. Save the settings with the button Save or Exit.

Defreeze the chamber and remove the ice|Disconnect food from the power supply (if any)|Check the drainage hole|Set the refrigerator temperature to +4°C-->

⚠️ Attention: After turning off the freezer in two-compressor models Samsung an alarm (sound or light) may sound after 24–48 hours - the system notifies you of a non-standard mode. To turn off the signal, press and hold the button. data-i="109">3 seconds. Alarm Off 3 seconds.

If after turning off the freezer continues to work (you can hear the noise of the compressor or fan), check:

• 🔌 Are the settings saved correctly (sometimes you need to press again OK).
• 🔄 Is the mode activated Vacation (Vacation), which can block changes.
• 📱 Update the refrigerator firmware through the application Samsung SmartThings (relevant for models with Wi-Fi).

3. Disabling the freezer in single-compressor models: workarounds

In refrigerators with one compressor (for example, Samsung RL-33, RT-40), completely turning off the freezer is technically impossible without interfering with the electrical circuit. However, there are several ways to minimize its operation:

The safest option is to use the mode VacationTo activate it:

1. Press and hold the button Energy Saver (or Eco) for 5 seconds.
2. Select item Vacation in the menu that appears.
3. Confirm your selection (on some models you will need to enter code - usually 0000 or 1234).

What happens if you physically disconnect the freezer sensor?

When you disconnect the freezer thermostat, the refrigerator may give an error E-22 (sensor malfunction) or E-24 (problem with the fan). In some cases, the compressor will work continuously, trying to cool a non-existent load, which will lead to its overheating. If you are not confident in your skills, it is better not to take risks and use software methods.

If you decide to disable the sensor, remember:

• 🔧 Before disassembly required unplug the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes (discharging capacitors).
• 📸 Take a photo of the location of the wires before disconnecting.
• 🛠️ To access the sensor, you may need to remove the interior panel of the freezer (use a plastic spatula to avoid damaging the seal).

4. Features of turning off the freezer in models with No Frost

The system No Frost implies forced air circulation, so even when the freezer compressor is turned off, the fans can continue to work. This leads to two problems:

1. Evaporator freezing —if the air is not cooled, but the fans drive moisture, ice forms on the back wall.
2. Increased noise —fans run idle, which increases bearing wear.

To correctly turn off the freezer in such models (for example, Samsung RB-37J3200), follow the algorithm:

1. Move the freezer regulator to position OFF (or 0).
2. Open the freezer door and leave it ajar for 10-15 minutes (this will stop the fans).
3. Close the door and check that the indicator on the display is not lit Cool Fan.

For models with inverter compressor (for example Samsung RF28), additional settings may be required through the service menu:

1. Press Power Freeze + Lighting for 8 seconds.
2. Select from the menu Fan Control → Freezer Fan Off.
3. Save the settings and restart the refrigerator (unplug it for 1 minute).

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Samsung with No Frost and one compressor (for example, Samsung RL-44) complete shutdown of the freezer will lead to automatic shutdown of the refrigerator compartment after 2-3 days. This is a protective function. preventing overheating of the compressor.

5. How to prepare the refrigerator for long-term downtime of the freezer

If you plan not to use the freezer for a long time (for example, at the dacha in winter), it is not enough to simply turn it off:

• 🧊 Defrosting and cleaning: Remove all the ice, rinse the chamber with a solution of soda (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water) and wipe dry. Remaining moisture can become a source of mold.
• 🚪 Fixing the door: If the freezer will not be used, seal the door with tape or install an opening limiter to prevent accidental entry of warm water. air.
• 🌡️ Temperature control: Set the temperature in the refrigerator compartment to +5...+7°C - this will reduce the load on the compressor.
• 🔌 Food: If the refrigerator will not be used for more than a month, disconnect it from the network, having first dried everything compartments.

For models with No Frost required:

• Clean the drainage hole (located on the back wall of the freezer) using a cotton swab or a special brush.
• Check the rubber seals on the door - if they are damaged, moisture will enter the chamber.

If you turn off the freezer for the winter in an unheated room, please note:

• At temperatures below +5°C in the room, the refrigerator compartment compressor may not turn on (the oil in the system thickens).
• If the refrigerator is at sub-zero temperatures, before restarting When turning it on in the spring, let it stay warm for 12–24 hours.

6. Possible errors and their elimination

When turning off the freezer, users often encounter errors on the display or abnormal behavior of the refrigerator. Let's consider the most common problems and ways to solve them:

If, after turning off the freezer, the refrigeration compartment becomes worse at cooling, check:

• 🔄 Is the mode Power Cool (intensive cooling) activated - it may conflict with the settings.
• 🌡️ Room temperature: if the room is hotter than +30°C, the compressor may not be able to cope with the load.
• 🔌 Network voltage: at low voltage (below 200V), the refrigerator operates unstably.

What should you do if, after turning off the freezer, the refrigerator does not turn on at all?

If the refrigerator stops responding to commands after manipulating the freezer, most likely the short circuit protection has tripped:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network for 15-20 minutes.

2. Press and hold the button Power 10 seconds (emergency reset).

3. If this does not help, check the fuse on the compressor (disassembly is required).

In 90% of cases, the problem is solved by resetting the settings to factory settings (to do this, hold Energy Saver + Power Cool 15 seconds).

If the error does not disappear, and the refrigerator displays a code E-XXthat is not indicated in the instructions, try:

1. Take a photo of the code and find its explanation in the user manual (section Troubleshooting).
2. Check if it is activated demonstration mode (on some models it blocks settings changes). To exit it, press Display + Lighting for 5 seconds.
3. Update the firmware via the application Samsung SmartThings (relevant for models with a Wi-Fi module).

7. Alternative methods: when turning off the freezer is impossible

If yours The model Samsung does not support turning off the freezer, but you need to reduce its activity, you can use small tricks:

• 🧊 Use. thermostat: Set the freezer to the maximum temperature (+8...+10°C) This will not turn it off completely, but will shorten the operating time of the compressor.
• 📦 Filling voids: Place plastic bottles of water in the freezer - they will accumulate cold, reducing the load on the system.
• 🔌 Using a timer: Connect the refrigerator through an outlet with a timer, setting it to work only at night (when the electricity tariff below).

For models with No Frostwhere the fans continue to work, you can try:

1. Install a small fan (battery-powered) in the freezer, aimed at the temperature sensor. This will create the illusion of cooling, and the compressor will turn on. less often.
2. Cover the food in the refrigerator compartment with cling film - this will reduce the evaporation of moisture and reduce the load on the system.

If you plan completely abandoning the freezer, consider the option of dismantling it In some models Samsung (for example, Samsung RS-522) the freezer compartment can be physically removed, turning the refrigerator into a single-compartment refrigerator. However this requires:

• 🛠️ Disassembling the case and removing the thermal insulation.
• 🔧 Re-soldering the electrical contacts (if the freezer was installed). separate compressor).
• 📏 Sealing the opened space (for example, using polyurethane foam).

⚠️ Attention: Dismantling the freezer will void the warranty and may lead to a violation of the thermal balance of the refrigeration compartment. Without proper insulation, the compressor will work for wear, trying to compensate for losses. cold.

8. Frequently asked questions and answers

❓ Is it possible to turn off the freezer in a Samsung refrigerator with one compressor?

In most cases, no. Single-compressor models do not support complete shutdown of the freezer, since the compressor serves both compartments. freezer maximum temperature (+8...+10°C) or activate the mode Vacation.

❓ Why did the refrigerator start to work loudly after turning off the freezer?

This is normal for models with No Frost —the fans continue to spin, but without load (cooling), their noise becomes more noticeable. To reduce the sound, you can open it slightly. freezer door for 5-10 minutes - this will stop the fans. If the noise does not disappear, check whether the fan is blocked by ice.

❓ How to turn off the freezer in a Samsung refrigerator with a touch panel?

On models with touch controls (for example, Samsung Family Hub) like this:

1. Touch the icon Freezer on the display.
2. Hold it for 5 seconds until the menu appears.
3. Select Power Off and confirm the action.

If the option Power Off is absent, your model does not support turning off the freezer.

❓ What happens if you turn off the freezer for a long period of time (for example, a year)?

With proper preparation (defrosting, cleaning, fixing the door) nothing critical will happen. However:

• Sealing rubber bands may lose elasticity due to dryness.
• Dust or insects may accumulate in the drainage system.
• When turned on again, an odor may appear (it is recommended to rinse the chamber with a vinegar solution before use).

If the refrigerator is placed in an unheated room, the risk of corrosion of metal parts increases.

❓ Is it possible to turn off the freezer through the SmartThings application?

Yes, but only for models with Wi-Fi support (for example, Samsung Family Hub or series Bespoke). To do this:

1. Open the application SmartThings and select your refrigerator.
2. Go to the section Freezer settings.
3. Activate the option Disable or Vacation mode.

If this option is not available, your model does not support remote shutdown.