What to check, in order
- Check the doors close fully
Make sure the freezer isn't packed so full that the doors can't close completely.
- Check the door seals
They should touch the cabinet all the way round. Put a torch inside and close the door: where light shines out, it isn't sealing. Clean the seals with warm soapy water and dry them with a soft cloth.
- Defrost it
Samsung UK says to unplug the fridge and defrost it with the doors open. Don't use a hair dryer to speed it up: Samsung US says this damages the fridge.
- Plug back in
Close the doors and use it as normal.
When to call an engineer
If you'd rather not defrost it yourself, or 21E comes back afterwards. Samsung US says to request service.
Parts people end up buying
Only if the checks above point to a part. Match it to your model number first: it's on a label inside the fridge, usually on a side wall, or on the back.
- Freezer fan motorSearch on Amazon
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Checked against
- Samsung US: refrigerator error codes
- Samsung UK: fridge freezer display not working after a power cut
- Samsung US: frost in the freezer, refrigerator or ice bucket
Last reviewed September 2026. Manufacturers update their pages, and your manual is the final word.