How to troubleshoot & fix an 88 88 error on a Samsung fridge

Encountering error codes on your refrigerator can be frustrating, especially when you’re preparing meals or have items that need to be kept cold 24/7. 

If you’re seeing the 88 88 error on your Samsung fridge, don’t panic. This is a code that you can usually troubleshoot & fix yourself. The code usually means there’s been a communication error due to a power outage or voltage fluctuations. It’s a common error code seen on inverter refrigerators.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Samsung fridge while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Disclaimer: The error code information provided in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes, and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What is the Samsung 88 88 error code?

The Samsung Fridge 88 88 error code typically means there’s a communication failure triggered by a power disruption. The 88 88 error can show up due to various reasons, including abrupt power surges, power outages, or voltage fluctuations. It’s also common in inverter refrigerators, which are highly susceptible to voltage variations and sudden power spikes.

The 88 88 error means there’s been a disruption in the exchange of information between your refrigerator’s core parts. In some cases, this issue could even mean your fridge has transitioned into display mode or demo mode – settings often used in showrooms for demonstration purposes.

Read more: Refrigerator Won’t Start: Top 6 Reasons and Fixes for Kenmore, Whirlpool, Frigidaire, GE, and Other Brands

Potential causes of the 88 88 error code

Several issues can contribute to an 88 88 display on your fridge, including:

• When electronic parts inside the fridge fail to communicate due to issues like incorrect door attachment or internal wiring problems
• A power disruption or voltage variation that disrupts the fridge’s main control board
• Central module malfunction

Keep safety first

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock. 
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.

How to troubleshoot the 88 88 error code

Step 1 – Check for power supply issues

• Make sure the refrigerator is correctly plugged into a functioning wall socket.
• Inspect the circuit breaker or fuse box associated with the refrigerator’s power source. Make sure the breaker isn’t tripped and that all fuses are intact.
• Use a multimeter to test the outlet’s voltage. You should get 120 volts at the outlet. If you don’t contact a qualified electrician. For this test, the fridge needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter. 
• If there are other appliances connected to the same circuit, unplug them temporarily to test if they might be causing electrical interference.
• Make sure there aren’t any loose connections or frayed wires in the power cord. If you find any damage to the cord, replace it.

Step 2 – Reset the fridge

1. Find the refrigerator’s display panel.
2. Press and hold the top left and right buttons on the display for at least 10 seconds.
3. Watch as the display panel goes blank, indicating that a reset is in progress.
4. Release your fingers from the buttons once all display icons reappear.
5. Check if the error code has been cleared.

You can also try unplugging the refrigerator from its power source, leaving it unplugged for at least 60 seconds to allow any residual power to drain fully, and then plugging it back in. 

If the error code persists, move on to the next step.

Read more: How To Deep Clean Your Refrigerator

Step 3 – Reboot the control panel

1. Press and hold the Power Freeze and Power Cool buttons simultaneously on the control panel. Hold the buttons for about 10 seconds until you hear a beep or see the display turn off and then back on.
2. Release the buttons once you see the display turn back on.
3. Check to see if the 88 88 error has cleared. If it hasn’t, the most common cause would be the main control.

Read more: How To Use A Multimeter To Check Appliance Parts

How to prevent the 88 88 error code

Here are some tips to maintain your Samsung refrigerator and prevent the 88 88 error code:

Use surge protectors

Power surges can damage your Samsung fridge and potentially trigger the 88 88 error code. Surge protectors help regulate the electrical current coming into the refrigerator and protect it from unexpected spikes or fluctuations in voltage. By using a high-quality surge protector from a trusted brand, you can minimize the risk of damage to your fridge and avoid potential error codes and part malfunctions.

Regularly maintain the fridge

Follow these maintenance tips so you can prolong the lifespan of your Samsung refrigerator and minimize the risk of encountering errors like the 88 88 code.

• Clean and inspect the motor and fan blades every 1-3 months to prevent dust and debris accumulation, which can hinder airflow.
• Keeping the refrigerator in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
• Avoid overloading the fridge with too many items, since this can strain the cooling system.

Read more: Cool Savings: 6 Fridge Energy Saving Tips

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your refrigerator working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog, and more. We can also help you troubleshoot common fridge problems here.

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