Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: No immediate electrical hazard for a power reset.
- Unplug the refrigerator for 60 seconds to reset all internal boards.
- Restore power and allow 2–3 minutes for the system to boot.
- If PC ER returns, call Samsung Support at 1-800-726-7864.
If the code comes back
- PC ER returns after a single power reset
What This Error Means
Error PC ER on your Samsung refrigerator means: The refrigerator has detected a communication breakdown between its internal panels or control boards. The display panel and the main control board can no longer communicate reliably. Also displayed as PC CH on some models. The refrigerator's self-diagnostic system has flagged this condition and may have paused affected functions.
The most frequent cause is loose ribbon cable or connector between the display panel and main control board. Work through the causes and steps below before calling a technician.
Many cases of PC ER can be partially resolved by the homeowner. Complete all DIY steps before contacting a technician.
Communication and boot errors on Samsung refrigerators almost always respond to a clean 60-second power reset — unplug completely, wait a full minute for capacitors to discharge, then restore power and allow 2–3 minutes for the system to boot. Rapid unplug-replug cycles do not allow capacitors to fully discharge and will not clear the fault.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Samsung refrigerator may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Loose ribbon cable or connector between the display panel and main control board
Check first: SAFETY: No immediate electrical hazard for a power reset.
The warning may return immediately because the appliance is detecting an internal fault.
Likely cause: Power surge corrupting the communication bus between boards
Check first: Unplug the refrigerator for 60 seconds to reset all internal boards.
Common Causes
- Loose ribbon cable or connector between the display panel and main control board
- Power surge corrupting the communication bus between boards
- Main control board failure
- Display board failure
- Software fault requiring a reset to re-establish communication
What Not to Do
- Do not attempt to reconnect ribbon cables yourself without proper electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions — static discharge damages board components
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Samsung refrigerator display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
- Some models may display the same fault as PC ER, PC CH.
Display and panel differences
- Some control panels show this issue as PC ER, PC CH instead of only PC ER.
- Panel wording and whether the code appears with letters, numbers, or a longer variant can differ by model family.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Common parts
- Main control board ($80–$200)
- Display board ($50–$150)
- Ribbon cable/wiring harness if connector or cable fault ($20–$60)
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Samsung refrigerator parts.
Service option
Samsung service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
Suggestions in this section are organized to support the troubleshooting flow first. Any future affiliate relationships should be disclosed clearly.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
PC ER returns after a single power reset
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Use a surge-protected outlet for the refrigerator — communication board faults are frequently caused by voltage spikes
Related Error Codes
88 88
The refrigerator is displaying a communication or boot fault. This typically occurs when power is disrupted mid-boot, leaving the control board in an inconsistent state. All segments of the display may light up simultaneously as part of this fault.
41C
The refrigerator has detected a software or system-level fault. On Family Hub models this typically relates to the touchscreen display or the internal computer. The refrigerator's cooling system continues to operate independently of the display computer.
Extra notes
- This page is based on Samsung support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-08
Based on: Based on Samsung support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
View Samsung US Official Support
Model coverage note: Samsung refrigerator code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.