Samsung RS27T5200SR Ice Maker Freezing Up – Complete Repair Guide
Ice maker freezing up in the Samsung RS27T5200SR side-by-side refrigerator is a common issue that occurs when the ice maker’s defrost system fails, water lines freeze, or temperature sensors malfunction. This problem typically manifests as ice buildup around the ice maker assembly, reduced ice production, or complete ice maker shutdown. The most frequent causes include a faulty defrost heater, blocked defrost drain, malfunctioning temperature sensor, or improper air circulation within the freezer compartment. This repair is rated as MODERATE difficulty, requiring basic electrical knowledge and the ability to access internal components safely. Most homeowners with moderate DIY skills can complete this repair in 2-3 hours.
Symptoms
- Thick ice buildup around the ice maker assembly and surrounding freezer walls
- Ice maker producing hollow, malformed, or cloudy ice cubes instead of clear, solid cubes
- Complete cessation of ice production with error codes displaying on the Samsung RS27T5200SR control panel
- Unusual clicking, grinding, or humming noises coming from the ice maker during harvest cycles
- Water dripping or pooling beneath the ice maker assembly onto freezer shelves
- Ice maker arm or wire bail arm frozen in place and unable to move freely during operation cycles
⚠️ Safety Warning
Before beginning any repair work on your Samsung RS27T5200SR, disconnect electrical power at the circuit breaker and unplug the unit from the wall outlet. This refrigerator operates on 115V AC power and contains potentially lethal electrical components. Turn off the water supply line to prevent flooding during disassembly. The unit weighs approximately 280 pounds, so ensure adequate support when moving or tilting for access to rear components. Wear safety glasses and insulated gloves when working with electrical connections. Allow the refrigerator to warm slightly before beginning work to prevent cold burns from frozen components. Never attempt repairs while the unit is energized, as the ice maker contains both electrical and water connections that can cause electrocution.
Parts Needed
- Ice maker defrost heater assembly (Samsung part number DA47-00139A or DA47-00055A for RS27T5200SR)
- Temperature sensor/thermistor (Samsung part number DA32-00008A, 10K ohm resistance)
- Ice maker module assembly (Samsung part number DA97-15217A if complete replacement needed)
- Defrost drain tube and grommet kit (Samsung part number DA61-03176A)
- Water inlet valve solenoid (Samsung part number DA62-03078A, 120V AC rated)
- Ice maker wiring harness (Samsung part number DA39-00006A if damaged during diagnosis)
Tools Required
- Digital multimeter with temperature probe capability for electrical testing
- Phillips head screwdriver set (#1 and #2 sizes for panel removal)
- Flathead screwdriver (1/4-inch width) for prying connectors and clips
- Needle-nose pliers for handling small connectors and wire terminals
- Hair dryer or heat gun for safely melting ice buildup during disassembly
- Flashlight or headlamp for illuminating tight spaces behind ice maker assembly
- Insulated work gloves and safety glasses for electrical component protection
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Power Down and Access Preparation
Disconnect power to the Samsung RS27T5200SR at the circuit breaker and unplug the unit. Remove all items from the freezer compartment and freezer door bins. Locate the ice maker shut-off switch on the left freezer wall and move it to the OFF position. Use a hair dryer on low heat setting to carefully melt visible ice buildup around the ice maker assembly, working from outside edges toward the center. Remove the ice bin by lifting straight up and out.
Step 2: Remove Ice Maker Assembly
Locate the two Phillips head screws securing the ice maker to the left freezer wall, positioned approximately 2 inches from the top and bottom of the unit. Remove these screws completely and set aside. Gently pull the ice maker assembly forward approximately 3 inches to access the electrical connections behind. Disconnect the white 6-pin wiring harness connector by pressing the release tab and pulling straight out. Disconnect the blue water line by pressing the collet fitting and pulling the tube free.
Step 3: Inspect Defrost Heater Element
With the ice maker removed, locate the defrost heater element mounted along the bottom rear of the ice maker housing. This appears as a metal tube approximately 8 inches long with two wire terminals. Using your multimeter set to resistance mode, test continuity across the heater terminals. A functional defrost heater should read between 300-500 ohms resistance. If the reading shows infinite resistance (OL), the heater element has failed and requires replacement.
Step 4: Test Temperature Sensor
Locate the temperature sensor (thermistor) attached to the ice maker evaporator coil, appearing as a small black component with two wire leads. Disconnect the sensor and test resistance with your multimeter. At room temperature (70°F), the Samsung RS27T5200SR thermistor should read approximately 10,000 ohms. At freezing temperature (32°F), resistance should increase to approximately 16,000 ohms. Replace the sensor if readings fall outside these parameters.
Step 5: Examine Water Inlet Valve
Access the water inlet valve by removing the lower rear panel of the Samsung RS27T5200SR using a Phillips screwdriver to remove six screws along the panel perimeter. The inlet valve is located on the bottom left, connected to both the water supply line and internal tubing. Test the valve solenoids using your multimeter set to resistance mode. Each solenoid should read between 200-500 ohms resistance. Inspect for mineral buildup or debris in the valve seat.
Step 6: Check Defrost Drain System
Locate the defrost drain tube running from beneath the ice maker assembly down to the drain pan. This tube should be clear and unobstructed. Remove the tube from its grommet and inspect for ice blockages or debris buildup. Flush the tube with warm water to ensure complete drainage. Check that the drain grommet in the freezer floor is properly seated and not allowing air leaks that could cause freezing.
Step 7: Replace Faulty Components
Install new defrost heater by removing the two mounting clips securing the old element and sliding out the heater tube. Insert the new heater ensuring proper alignment with mounting brackets. Connect new wiring terminals ensuring tight connections. If replacing the temperature sensor, mount it in the identical location against the evaporator coil using the provided mounting clip. Ensure sensor makes good thermal contact with the metal surface.
Step 8: Reassemble Ice Maker System
Reconnect the water line to the ice maker by inserting the blue tube into the quick-connect fitting until it clicks into place. Reconnect the 6-pin electrical harness ensuring the connector locks securely. Slide the ice maker assembly back into position aligning the mounting holes with the freezer wall brackets. Secure with the two Phillips head screws, tightening until snug but not over-tightened.
Step 9: Restore Power and Test Operation
Replace the rear access panel on the Samsung RS27T5200SR and secure with all six mounting screws. Reconnect electrical power and turn the ice maker switch to the ON position. The ice maker should begin its initialization cycle within 5 minutes, indicated by motor sounds and arm movement. Monitor for 24 hours to ensure proper ice production without refreezing issues.
Troubleshooting
- If ice maker continues freezing up after heater replacement, check freezer temperature setting – should be maintained between 0°F to 5°F for proper operation
- Persistent water leaking may indicate improper defrost drain installation or damaged drain pan requiring complete drain system replacement
- Ice maker producing small or hollow cubes suggests water pressure issues – verify home water pressure meets 20-120 PSI requirement for Samsung RS27T5200SR
- Intermittent freezing problems may indicate control board issues requiring professional diagnosis of the main refrigerator control module
- If new components test properly but symptoms persist, inspect freezer door seals for air leaks causing temperature fluctuations
- Unusual noises after repair may indicate improper ice maker mounting or misaligned drive components requiring readjustment
When to Call a Professional
- Refrigerant system issues indicated by complete loss of cooling in the freezer compartment during ice maker operation
- Main control board replacement needed when multiple error codes appear simultaneously on the Samsung RS27T5200SR display panel
- Electrical problems involving the main wiring harness or 115V power supply connections requiring certified appliance technician expertise
- Warranty considerations for Samsung RS27T5200SR units still under manufacturer coverage where DIY repairs may void warranty protection
Recommended Parts & Tools
Samsung Ice Maker Assembly DA97-15217D
This genuine Samsung ice maker assembly is the complete replacement unit for the RS27T5200SR model when the ice maker is repeatedly freezing up due to internal component failure. Compatible with multiple Samsung side-by-side refrigerator models including the RS27T series. Check current pricing on Amazon.
Samsung Water Filter Wrench Tool Set
This specialized tool set helps safely remove and install components during ice maker repairs on Samsung refrigerators. Essential for accessing water lines and filter connections that may be contributing to freezing issues in the RS27T5200SR ice maker system. Check current pricing on Amazon.