My Samsung fridge isn't cooling

One of the simplest issues to check is whether the refrigerator is securely plugged into the wall socket. If the plug is loose or not fully inserted, the appliance may not receive power.

Unplug the refrigerator and then firmly plug it back in to ensure a solid connection. If it is already firmly plugged in, try plugging another device (like a lamp or phone charger) into the same outlet. If the other device doesn't work either, it’s possible the outlet is faulty. In that case, check your home’s circuit breaker and reset it if needed.

If the refrigerator door is even slightly ajar, cool air can escape, making it difficult for the unit to maintain the correct temperature. Always make sure the door is closed tightly after use. Items inside the fridge can sometimes prevent the door from sealing completely, so reorganising or removing bulky items can help. 

Over time, the rubber seals around the fridge door (also known as gaskets) can collect dust, food particles, or grease. These dirty seals may create small gaps that allow warm air to enter and cold air to escape, disrupting the internal temperature. Clean the seals thoroughly using a damp cloth and mild detergent. If you notice frost forming around the gasket area, that’s a sign it’s not sealing well. Once cleaned, allow up to 24 hours for the refrigerator to stabilise.

If the seals appear cracked or worn out, they may need to be replaced by a technician.

If your refrigerator is placed in direct sunlight or near a heat source such as an oven or radiator, the surrounding heat can affect its ability to stay cool. Excessive heat forces the compressor to work harder, which may lead to inefficient cooling.

If possible, relocate the appliance to a shaded or cooler area of the kitchen, away from heat-producing appliances or windows that let in strong sunlight.

Sometimes the refrigerator’s internal temperature settings are simply set too high. Check the control panel or dial and adjust the temperature as needed. For best performance, the refrigerator compartment should be set to approximately 3°C (37°F), while the freezer should be set to -18°C (0°F). Allow several hours for the temperature to adjust, and avoid frequently opening the door during this time.

Refrigerators need adequate ventilation to release the heat generated during cooling. If the back of the appliance is placed too close to the wall, it can restrict airflow, making the unit work less efficiently. Make sure there is at least one inch (2.5 cm) of space between the rear of the refrigerator and the wall. If necessary, pull the appliance out slightly to improve ventilation and overall performance.

Packing your refrigerator or freezer too full can block internal air vents and prevent cool air from circulating properly. This can lead to uneven temperatures and poor cooling. Check how your food is stored and ensure that vents aren’t blocked by large containers or packages. Try to leave some space between items to promote proper airflow and maintain consistent cooling throughout the compartments.

Over time, dust, pet hair and debris can collect in and around the compressor and fan, restricting airflow and forcing the system to work harder. To clean it, first unplug the fridge for safety. Locate the compressor compartment by removing the rear access panel at the bottom of the unit. Using a vacuum with a brush or crevice attachment, gently remove dust from the fan, compressor and surrounding vents. A soft brush or an old toothbrush can help dislodge buildup in tight areas.

Once the debris is cleared, wipe down the area with a dry microfibre cloth and make sure the fan blades spin freely. After replacing the access panel and plugging the refrigerator back in, ensure it's running smoothly and quietly. Performing this cleaning every six months (or more frequently in homes with pets) can significantly improve airflow, reduce energy consumption and help prevent mechanical issues. Additionally, keeping a few inches of space between the fridge and the wall will facilitate proper ventilation and reduce future dust buildup.

Some Samsung refrigerators have a Demo Mode (also known as showroom mode), which disables the cooling function while keeping the lights and display active. This is useful in retail settings, but if it’s accidentally enabled at home, your fridge won’t cool.

If the display reads "OF-OF" or something similar, your refrigerator is likely in Demo Mode. To turn it off, refer to your model’s manual, as the process varies. Typically, holding down a combination of buttons—such as ENERGY SAVER and POWER FREEZE / FREEZER—for three seconds will deactivate the mode. You should hear a chime, and normal cooling will resume.