Samsung Refrigerator Ice Maker Reset: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
Few kitchen frustrations compare to opening your freezer and finding an empty ice bin. If your Samsung refrigerator's ice maker has stopped working, you're not alone—this is one of the most common issues with modern refrigerators.
The good news? 80% of ice maker problems can be fixed with a simple reset. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from basic troubleshooting to advanced fixes for specific models.
Why Samsung Ice Makers Need Resetting
Before we dive into solutions, let's understand why ice makers malfunction:
1. Temperature Fluctuations (The Silent Ice Killer)
Your freezer needs to maintain 0°F (-18°C) for proper ice production. If temperatures rise above 10°F (-12°C), the system may:
- Enter safety mode
- Produce smaller, hollow cubes
- Stop making ice entirely
2. The 6-Month Filter Rule
A clogged water filter is the #1 cause of:
- Slow ice production
- Odd-tasting cubes
- Error codes (like 22E or 14E)
Samsung recommends replacing filters every 6 months, but hard water areas may need changes every 3-4 months.
3. Software Glitches (Yes, Your Fridge Has Bugs)
Modern Samsung models (especially the BESPOKE and Family Hub lines) run on software that occasionally needs rebooting, just like your smartphone.
4. Frozen Lines (Winter Inside Your Freezer)
Moisture buildup can freeze the:
- Water inlet valve
- Fill the tube.
- Ice maker assembly
This creates a vicious cycle where the system can't get water to make new ice.
Industry Insight: A 2023 appliance repair survey found 62% of "broken" ice makers just needed a reset or filter change.
Step-by-Step Reset Instructions for All Samsung Models
Method 1: The Universal Reset (Works on 90% of Models)
- Locate your ice maker (top-left freezer wall in most models)
- Find the test button (small black or red button on the side)
- Press and hold for 10 seconds until you hear a chime
- Wait 6-12 hours for the first ice batch
Models this works on:
- RF28T5001SR
- RF23A9675SG
- Most French door units
Method 2: Power Cycle Reset (For Stubborn Cases)
- Unplug the refrigerator or flip the circuit breaker
- Wait 5 minutes (let the capacitors fully discharge)
- Restore power
- Press and hold "Ice Type" + "Child Lock" for 5 seconds (on touchscreen models)

Method 3: Force Thaw Mode (For Frozen Systems)
- Remove all ice from the bin
- Pour warm (not hot) water over the ice maker
- Use a hair dryer on low heat to melt ice in the fill tube
- Dry thoroughly before resetting
Advanced Troubleshooting: When Reset Isn't Enough
If your ice maker still isn't working after resetting, try these solutions:
1. Water Filter Replacement
Signs you need a new filter:
- Ice production slowed gradually
- Cubes taste strange
- The water dispenser flow is weak
How to replace:
- Locate filter (bottom grille or inside fridge)
- Twist the old filter counterclockwise
- Insert new filter (like DA29-00020B) and twist clockwise
- Run 2 gallons of water through to prime the system

2. Checking Water Supply
- Verify the water valve behind the fridge is fully open
- Inspect the ¼" supply line for kinks
- Test water pressure at the dispenser (should fill 8 oz in 10 seconds)
3. Decoding Error Messages
Code | Meaning | Solution |
---|---|---|
22E | Low water pressure | Replace the filter or check the supply |
14E | Frozen system | Use Force Thaw Mode |
5E | Overfilling | Reset the ice maker |
Preventative Maintenance Schedule
Keep your ice maker running smoothly with this routine:
Monthly:
- Wipe down the ice bin with a vinegar solution
- Check for ice jams in the dispenser
Every 6 Months:
- Replace the water filter
- Inspect water lines
Annually:
- Vacuum condenser coils
- Verify that door seals are airtight
When to Call a Professional
Seek help if you notice:
- Water leaking inside the fridge (could indicate a cracked tray)
- Grinding noises (motor or auger failure)
- Error codes persist after reset (control board issues)
Cost Guide:
- Service call: $100-$200
- Ice maker replacement: $150-$400
- Control board repair: $200-$600
FAQs
Q: How long after reset will my ice maker work?
A: Most models take 6-24 hours to produce the first full batch after reset.
Q: Why is my ice maker making noise but no ice?
A: This usually indicates a frozen fill tube—try Force Thaw Mode.
Q: Can I manually fill the ice maker?
A: Not recommended—this can cause overflows and water damage.
Q: Why does my ice taste bad after a reset?
A: Flush the system by discarding the first 3 batches of ice.
Q: Is there a way to increase ice production?
A: Yes! Set your freezer to -2°F (-19°C) and enable Power Freeze mode temporarily.
Final Thoughts
Resetting your Samsung ice maker is often the fastest, most cost-effective solution. Start with the basic reset, check the water filter and supply, and only consider professional help if problems persist.
Got a unique situation? Drop your model number in the comments below, and we'll help diagnose your specific issue!
Do u know about the Samsung refrigerator water filter Guide click here