Samsung Refrigerator Error Code 25E: Fridge Defrost System Failure
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What Error Code 25E Means
Error code 25E means the fridge compartment defrost cycle did not complete. The fresh food side evaporator did not reach the required temperature during defrost. Ice builds up behind the rear panel in the fridge section, blocking airflow and causing the fridge to warm up while the freezer stays cold. Newer Samsung models show this as 25C.
Common Causes
Burned-out fridge defrost heater
The defrost heater serving the fridge-side evaporator has failed. On Samsung models with dual evaporators, the fridge has its own separate defrost heater.
Failed fridge defrost bi-metal thermostat
The safety thermostat on the fridge evaporator is stuck open, cutting power to the defrost heater permanently.
Defrost sensor reading incorrectly
The fridge defrost sensor sends false readings that cause the board to terminate the defrost cycle prematurely. This overlaps with the 5E code but 25E specifically flags an incomplete defrost event.
Main board defrost relay failure
The control board relay or triac that powers the fridge defrost heater has failed. The heater and thermostat test fine but get no voltage from the board.
How to Fix It
- 1
Manually defrost the fridge evaporator
Unplug the refrigerator. Remove all food and shelves from the fresh food compartment. Unscrew the rear panel inside the fridge section (Phillips screwdriver, typically 4-6 screws). If ice is present on the evaporator, leave the unit unplugged with the door open for 3-5 hours. Place towels to catch water.
Unplug the unit before removing any panels.
- 2
Test the fridge defrost heater
Locate the fridge defrost heater along the bottom of the fridge evaporator coil assembly. Disconnect both wire connectors. Set a multimeter to the 200-ohm range. A working heater reads 20-40 ohms. OL means the heating element is burned out. Replace with the Samsung part number specific to your model.
Verify the fridge is unplugged before testing.
- 3
Test the fridge defrost bi-metal thermostat
Locate the bi-metal disc on the fridge evaporator tubing. Disconnect its two wires. At room temperature, test for continuity -- it should read closed (continuity). OL at room temperature means the thermostat is stuck open. Replace it.
- 4
Check the fridge defrost sensor
Disconnect the defrost thermistor from its harness. Test resistance on the 20k-ohm scale. At 77 degrees F, expect approximately 5 kOhms. Replace if you get OL or 0 ohms. This sensor is often the same part type as the 5E sensor.
- 5
Replace failed parts and verify
Install the replacement heater, thermostat, or sensor. Reassemble the rear panel with all screws. Replace shelves and food. Plug in the fridge. Run a forced defrost cycle: press the Energy Saver and Fridge buttons simultaneously for 8 seconds (model-dependent), then press again to cycle to the fridge defrost mode. Confirm the heater activates and the 25E code clears.
When to Call a Professional
Call a technician if you are unsure which defrost component has failed, if you need the main control board tested, or if ice buildup keeps returning after part replacement. TruePro's $59 diagnostic fee gets credited toward the repair. All repairs carry a 90-day warranty on parts and labor (CA License #51112). Same-day service is often available across LA County, Orange County, and Ventura County. Call 877-378-3111. New customers save 15% on labor with code NEW15.
Estimated Repair Cost
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| DIY (parts only) | $25 - $80 |
| Professional repair | $200 - $400 |
Defrost heater parts cost $25-$50. The bi-metal thermostat is $10-$20. Professional repair includes TruePro's $59 diagnostic (credited to repair), parts, and labor. Board-level repairs push costs to $400-$550.
See full refrigerator repair cost breakdown βSamsung Refrigerator 25E β FAQ
Related Samsung Error Codes
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