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 71C, 71E, 72C
- Sources Manufacturer service documentation and field-repair experience · Methodology · Report a correction
What this code means
The appliance detected that a compartment temperature rose abnormally. The cause can be a door left open, blocked airflow, a fan/defrost problem or a broader cooling failure.
Most likely causes
- A door was left open or a gasket is not sealing
- Warm food, blocked vents or an overloaded compartment
- A fan or defrost failure is restricting airflow
- A compressor or sealed-system problem is reducing cooling
Safe checks for the owner
- Check actual food temperatures and move perishables if they are unsafe.
- Confirm all doors close and nothing blocks interior air vents.
- Listen for compressor and fan operation and request service if temperatures do not recover.
Estimated U.S. repair cost
$280–$750, depending on model, access, parts availability and local labor.