How to replace Samsung refrigerator temperature sensor holder DA61-03683A

Is your Samsung fridge struggling to keep its cool? A malfunctioning temperature sensor holder might be the hidden culprit causing imbalance and frost issues. Dive into our easy-to-follow guide below, complete with a how-to video, to restore your refrigerator’s optimal performance in no time!

Need a part?  Search below using your appliance model number to find exactly what you need:

If you’re experiencing temperature-related issues with your Samsung fridge, it could mean the temperature sensor holder is broken. This part helps the temperature sensor remain in the correct position so it can accurately measure the temperature. The sensor communicates that information to the control board, which regulates the temperature.

If the temperature sensor holder sensor is damaged or missing, it needs to be replaced. You may also notice frost or ice accumulating in the freezer, which could point to a problem with the holder.

Thankfully this is a straightforward repair that you should be able to complete in under an hour.

You can find a replacement temperature sensor holder here. If you need other replacement parts for your Samsung refrigerator, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Watch the full repair here

What is the temperature sensor holder & why is it important?

The temperature sensor holder is a small plastic clip that’s usually mounted to the evaporator coil assembly inside the fresh food compartment. It keeps the temperature sensor in place right next to the coils so the sensor can send temperature readings to the control board.

If the holder breaks, the sensor can shift away from the coil and transmit inaccurate temperature readings, which can negatively affect your refrigerator’s temperature and performance.

Read more: How To Find Your Appliance’s Model Number

What you need

• Flat-blade screwdriver
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Replacement temperature sensor holder (make sure it’s compatible with your specific model)

Safety precautions

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.
• 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.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• 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.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

Read more: Refrigerator error codes: What do they mean & how can I fix them?

How to replace the temperature sensor holder

Follow these steps to swap out the temperature sensor holding in your Samsung refrigerator.

Step 1: Access the evaporator housing

1. Unplug the fridge from the power outlet.
2. Shut off the water supply to the fridge.
3. Take out all the refrigerator shelves by lifting and sliding them out.
4. Remove both crisper drawers from the bottom by lifting the front, releasing the back hooks and sliding them out.
5. Detach the crisper cover assembly on the bottom by releasing the support tab and lifting it. Now you can access the evaporator housing behind the rear panel.

Step 2: Detach the evaporator cover

With the shelves and drawers cleared out, now you can detach the rear evaporator cover. Here’s how to do it:

1. Remove the screw cap on the upper right corner and unscrew the four Phillips screws.
2. Take off the side rail.
3. Detach the LED light assembly by using a flat-blade screwdriver to release the clips.
4. Starting at the bottom, slowly pry off the rear panel.
5. Disconnect the wire harness plugs.

The evaporator coil housing should now be exposed.

Step 3: Replace the temperature sensor holder

1. Find the old sensor holder that’s mounted to the evaporator tubing, if part of it is still in place.
2. Carefully pry or cut the old holder to detach it from the coils.
3. Unclip the temperature sensor from the damaged holder.
4. Press the sensor firmly into the new holder. Make sure it clicks in place.
5. Clip the new holder onto the evaporator tubing. Double-check that the sensor is positioned correctly.

Step 4: Reinstall the evaporator cover

1. Reconnect the two wire harness plugs to the evaporator cover panel.
2. Align the panel into position and firmly press the edges to re-seat the locking tabs.
3. Clip the LED light assembly back into place. Make sure the tabs are inserted correctly.
4. Replace the four Phillips screws along with the screw cap to secure the panel.

Finish up

1. Reinstall the crisper cover assembly by sliding it onto the tracks and locking the bottom tab.
2. Replace both crisper drawers.
3. Slide all the shelves back in and make sure the side hooks are inserted properly.
4. Restore power to the refrigerator and turn the water supply back on.
5. Allow the fridge to cool for around 30 minutes, then use an independent thermometer to check the interior temperature to make sure the fridge is working correctly.

Read more: How to clean and maintain your refrigerator’s water dispenser

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the temperature sensor holder in your Samsung refrigerator.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over 2 million parts and most orders arrive in 2-3 business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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