THE WORK ORDER

We received a service call from a homeowner in Valrico neighborhood regarding their Samsung RF28HMEDBSR French Door Refrigerator. The client complained of frost and ice buildup forming behind the rear panel inside the fridge compartment. Ice accumulation was so severe that air flow had become blocked, causing the fridge to run warm even though the freezer stayed cold. The customer also mentioned an intermittent error code “PC-ER” and an unusually noisy evaporator fan before the frost appeared. With Valrico’s year-round humidity and regular afternoon storms, moisture intrusion and electrical surges are common local culprits for appliance glitches like these.

THE DIAGNOSIS

Upon arrival in Valrico location, our lead technician began with a visual inspection. Removing produce drawers revealed a telltale sheet of ice clinging to the rear evaporator cover. In South Valrico, where homes face both high humidity and frequent power flickers, this is a textbook sign: moist, humid Florida air enters the fridge every time the door opens, condensing near the coldest surface—the evaporator coil—especially if there’s a minor break in the door gasket seal or prolonged door openings (kids on summer break are notorious for this!).

Next, using an insulated Philips screwdriver, we removed the shelf brackets and a half-dozen screws securing the rear panel. A technician’s inspection flashlight illuminated a thick layer of rime ice completely encasing the evaporator coil. The evaporator fan’s blades were immobilized by the buildup, explaining both the fan noise and poor cooling performance. At this stage, we checked the evaporator thermistor (sensor) with a digital multimeter and found an abnormally high resistance reading at room temperature, reading 20kΩ instead of the expected 5kΩ to 10kΩ (per Samsung Service Bulletin ASC20150717001).

We also tested the defrost heater circuit, confirming continuity at around 35Ω, and observed no burnt marks or open lines. Samsung’s RF28HMEDBSR is notorious for thermistor failures in humid climates, causing inaccurate temperature readings that delay the defrost cycle, leading to major ice buildup. Surges common in Valrico, especially near River Hills Golf Course where lightning strikes are frequent and can also damage the delicate component.

THE FIX

Once the root causes were pinpointed—failed evaporator thermistor and thick ice accumulation—the repair could begin. First, the fridge was unplugged for safety. We used a heat gun on low carefully to melt the ice (hair dryers are not recommended due to overheating risk or plastic warping). Meltwater was collected using absorbent towels and a wet/dry vacuum.

The failed evaporator thermistor (DA32-00011C) was then unclipped and replaced with an upgraded OEM version, which is sealed and more moisture-resistant. This newer part features improved thermal insulation, preventing dampness from shorting its internal circuit. The thermistor’s plug was secured firmly to eliminate intermittent contacts, and we reinforced the wiring with dielectric grease to guard against future moisture intrusion—a must in Valrico’s muggy summer months.

With the evaporator now clear and the thermistor changed, we reassembled the cover and tested the defrost cycle. The fridge was powered on and forced into manual defrost mode using the Samsung diagnostic sequence (press Energy Saver and Fridge buttons for 8 seconds, then tap Fridge to select “Fd” for forced defrost). Temperature readings returned to spec, fan operation was silent and smooth, and airflow was fully restored.

Educating the homeowner, we highlighted the importance of keeping fridge doors sealed, promptly addressing door gasket tears, and using a surge protector—particularly in Brandon-area neighborhoods prone to summer thunderstorms. For ongoing maintenance advice and local repair help, we always recommend checking our Brandon Appliance Pros blog and support tips. For deeper technical specifications and diagnostics, Samsung publishes their official service manual here.

FAQ: Samsung RF28HMEDBSR Refrigerator Ice Buildup

Q: Why does my Samsung RF28HMEDBSR keep building up ice behind the back panel?
A: The most common causes are a defective or moisture-damaged evaporator thermistor, failed door gasket letting in humid air, or a defrost heater/control failure. In Valrico, the high humidity means even minor leaks or frequent door openings can quickly lead to rapid ice chunks forming, especially if the thermistor isn’t correctly controlling the defrost cycle.

Q: What is the “PC-ER” error code on the RF28HMEDBSR, and how is it related to frost issues?
A: “PC-ER” is an error signaling a problem with the dispenser touch panel (possibly communication with main PCB), but can also appear when condensation shorts control connections behind the upper covers. When ice blocks air vents or when excessive moisture forms, small electrical shorts occur—an issue exacerbated by Florida storms and surges—triggering this intermittent error.

Q: Is there a permanent fix for refrigerator ice buildup in humid Florida towns like Valrico?
A: Besides replacing the defective thermistor with the upgraded version, homeowners should keep the refrigerator level, use surge protection, occasionally run forced defrost cycles if they notice frost, and inspect door seals every few months. Consider installing an in-line water filter rated for Florida’s hard water to reduce mineral buildup that can affect ice makers and drains, especially in neighborhoods like FishHawk where sediment levels are high.

If your Samsung refrigerator isn’t cooling properly, you hear fan noises, or you spot ice behind any removable panels, don’t wait—call a licensed repair expert in Valrico. Handling electrical and sealed system repairs demands specialized tools and knowhow, especially in our unique Florida climate. Visit Brandon Appliance Pros for trusted local refrigerator repair and maintenance tips.