Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator Error Code 21 E: Meaning & How to Fix It

By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026

Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator error code 21 E means: Freezer evaporator fan failure. [1] Keep using it? Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: write down the code and model number.

Source: Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator error-code chart, via Sears PartsDirect [1].

Quick facts

Code	21 E
Also shown as	None listed by the manufacturer
Brand / appliance	Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator
System	Venting / airflow
Meaning (service chart)	Freezer evaporator fan failure. [1]
Keep using it?	Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair
DIY-safe?	Owner checks only (listed below)
Support	Samsung Support Center (samsung.com/us/support)
Source document	Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect)

On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ

What error code 21 E means on a Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator

Freezer evaporator fan failure. [1]

This is a venting / airflow code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.

How to fix Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator error code 21 E (safe owner checks)

Safety first: disconnect power before you remove any panel or reach into the sump or drum. Do not touch wiring, the control board or the motor. If you see water near electrical parts, stop and call a technician. These steps are based on the Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect) [1], rewritten for clarity.

Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (21 E) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator and order the right parts.
Check the control lock. Check for evaporator frost and ice buildup that can block fan blade rotation.
Do a power reset. Unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker for one minute, then restore power and try again. If the code clears and stays away, it may have been a one-off fault.
Test and decide. Run a short cycle or restart and watch the display. If 21 E comes back after these checks, stop using the refrigerator for this function and call a technician, because the remaining causes need meters or part replacement.

The first and last steps (and the power reset) are general owner checks added by ErrorCodePro; the rest follow the Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator error-code chart published by Sears PartsDirect, rewritten for safe owner use.

Parts that may be involved

Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.

Freezer evaporator fan

When to call a technician

Unplug the refrigerator and check the wire harness connections on the freezer evaporator fan.
Reconnect any loose wires.
Technician: check the freezer evaporator fan wiring connections (yellow, gray and black wires) on the CN75 electronic control board connector.
Reconnect any loose wires.
If the wiring connections are okay, a technician should replace the freezer evaporator fan.
Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
The appliance is under warranty: contact Samsung Support Center (samsung.com/us/support) first

Frequently asked questions

What does error code 21 E mean on a Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator?

The Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator error-code chart lists 21 E as follows: Freezer evaporator fan failure.

Is it safe to keep using the RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator with 21 E?

Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair.

Can I fix Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator error 21 E myself?

Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: write down the code and model number. If it persists, call a technician or Samsung Support Center (samsung.com/us/support).

Sources

Sears PartsDirect: Samsung RF265 and RS267 models side-by-side refrigerator error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)

Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Samsung.