How do I fix a Samsung refrigerator temperature display that keeps flashing?
Answer
A blinking temperature display usually means the inside of the refrigerator is still too warm, often after a door was left open or a power outage. Check the doors, give the fridge time to cool, and note any error code if it keeps blinking.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Do not reach into the back of the refrigerator or open panels to work on the cooling system. Leave internal repairs to a qualified technician.
- Only contact Samsung through its official website or app. Be cautious of unexpected calls or pop-ups that offer repair help or ask for payment.
Follow these steps
Check that every door is fully closed
Look at the refrigerator and freezer doors and make sure neither is propped or left slightly open. Check that food packaging or containers are not blocking a door from closing. Samsung's US support page lists a door left open as a common cause of the blinking display.
You should see: Both doors close fully and stay shut when you let go.
Give the fridge time to cool
Leave the doors closed and let the fridge run. Samsung's US support page says the blinking stops on its own once the temperature drops, and that this can take up to 4 hours. Avoid opening the doors often while it cools. Samsung refrigerator temperature display keeps blinking
You should see: The display stops blinking and holds a steady temperature reading, or it keeps blinking and you move on to the next step.
Check whether the inside is too warm
If you have a fridge thermometer, place it in the middle of the fridge and read it after the fridge has had time to cool. Samsung's page says the display may blink when the temperature inside is above 59°F. The control names and layout vary by model, so look for the temperature setting on your display or in its manual.
You should see: You know whether the inside is above about 59°F, or you have confirmed the temperature setting on the display.
Look for an error code
If a code such as 88 88, 83E, 85E, or 86E appears, write it down exactly. Samsung's US support page says these codes can appear after a power outage when the fridge did not restart correctly. Look up the code in the error code guide for your model.
You should see: You have the exact code written down, or the code clears on its own after the fridge has cooled.
Contact Samsung if it keeps blinking
If the display is still blinking after the doors are checked and the fridge has had time to cool, or a code stays on the display, contact Samsung support through its official website or app to request service. Have the model number and the exact display message ready.
You should see: Samsung support confirms whether a service visit is needed, and you have a reference number or appointment information from them.
Not sure this is the right page? Check here
0 of 6 checked
Extra tips
What to look for: A temperature number on the refrigerator display that blinks, sometimes with a code such as 88 88, 83E, 85E, or 86E.
Before you change anything: Note the exact message on the display and the model number on the label inside the fridge. Before eating food that was stored during a long warm period, check it carefully. Only contact Samsung through its official website or app. Never share a password, recovery code, or one-time code with anyone.
Need a little more help?
Tell us what’s happening. Your saved expert chat will open beside this article.
Free to use. Don’t include passwords or personal details.