Editorial & technical review
- Written by ApplianceWorth Editorial Team
- Technically reviewed by Victor — appliance technician
- Last reviewed 2026-07-01
- Applies to Samsung refrigerators
- Confidence medium
- Also displayed as 24C
- Sources Manufacturer service documentation and field-repair experience · Methodology · Report a correction
What this code means
The freezer defrost cycle did not clear frost within the expected time, or the heater circuit appears open.
Most likely causes
- An open defrost heater, thermal fuse or bi-metal thermostat
- A loose connector or broken heater wire
- Heavy frost caused by a door-seal or drainage problem
- A defrost-sensor or main-control fault
Safe checks for the owner
- Check whether the freezer back wall has heavy frost and whether airflow is weak.
- Keep doors closed and protect food if temperature is rising.
- Do not chip ice with sharp tools or apply uncontrolled heat.
Estimated U.S. repair cost
$280–$560, depending on model, access, parts availability and local labor.