Let’s break down replacing the ice maker in your Samsung RF28HFEDBSR refrigerator.
0. Find the correct ice maker part number
The most common part number for the ice maker assembly compatible with your Samsung RF28HMEDBSR refrigerator is DA97-08059A. You can buy it from https://amzn.to/4cvXWtw. However, updated or alternative part numbers may sometimes be listed.
For example, DA97-15217A is sometimes listed as a substitute for DA97-08059A. So, we’d better check the Old Ice Maker: Often, there’s a sticker or label on the ice maker with the part number. If you don’t have a new ice maker, you can buy one from https://amzn.to/4loZr0t.
Tools Needed:
- Philips Head Screwdriver
- Flat-Blade Screwdriver
This video has explained each step in great detail. I have also written a summary based on the video. If it is too long, you can follow the video.
Procedure:
- Enter Forced Defrost (Fd) Mode:
- Press and hold the Energy Saver button and the Refrigerator (Fridge Temp) button simultaneously for approximately 8 seconds.
- The display will enter a test mode. Press the Refrigerator button repeatedly (usually 4 times) until the display shows “Fd” (Forced Defrost).
- Leave the refrigerator in Fd mode for about 5 minutes to allow the ice maker area to defrost. This is crucial for the cooling coil step later.
- Exit Forced Defrost Mode:
- Press and hold the Energy Saver and Refrigerator buttons again for about 8 seconds.
- Press the Refrigerator button until the display cycles past “Fd” and returns to a normal display or turns off the test mode indications.
- Turn Off Refrigerator Power:
- Press and hold the Energy Saver and Freezer (Freezer Temp) buttons simultaneously until the refrigerator powers down.
- Remove the Ice Bucket:
- Lift the ice bucket slightly and pull it straight out.
- (Note: Some older models may have a release button near the top that needs to be pressed).
- Remove the Wire Housing Cover:
- Using a Philips screwdriver, remove the single screw securing the wire housing cover (located near the ice maker wiring).
- Pull the cover straight forward to remove it.
- Disconnect the Ice Maker Wiring Harness:
- Locate the locking tab on the wiring harness connector to the ice maker.
- Depress the locking tab and unplug the harness.
- Remove the Ice Tray Duct Screw:
- Using a Philips screwdriver, remove the screw holding the ice tray duct (the plastic piece below the ice maker).
- Release and Lower the Ice Tray Duct:
- Insert a flat-blade screwdriver into the small slot on the left side of the duct.
- Gently pry the duct towards the right while simultaneously pulling down to release it from its locking tabs. Let it hang or lower it carefully.
- Carefully Pry Down the Cooling Coil (CRITICAL STEP):
- WARNING: This ice maker has a cooling coil running directly underneath it. This coil MUST NOT BE DAMAGED. Puncturing or significantly bending this coil can ruin the entire sealed system of the refrigerator, requiring the replacement of the whole appliance.
- Ensure the coil is free of ice and frost (this is why the 5-minute defrost was necessary). DO NOT chip ice off the coil.
- Using a flat-blade screwdriver, gently pry the cooling coil downwards enough so the ice maker can slide over it without catching. The coil should remain in place while the ice maker moves.
- Release and Remove the Old Ice Maker:
- Locate and press the locking tab at the top center of the ice maker assembly.
- While holding the tab depressed, firmly grip the ice maker and slide it straight forward, out of the compartment.
- Ensure the cooling coil underneath remains clear and does not snag as you remove the ice maker.
- Install the New Ice Maker:
- Ensure the bottom tray/duct is still lowered.
- Note the two alignment slots on the top of the new ice maker. These will slide onto corresponding tabs extending from the compartment’s ceiling.
- Carefully guide the new ice maker into the compartment, ensuring the coolant loop passes through the opening at the back of the ice maker assembly.
- Ensure all six black rubber grommets/pieces are on the bottom tray where the coil sits.
- Align the top slots and slide the ice maker backward until you feel or hear the top locking tab click into place.
- Gently push the cooling coil back up under the newly installed ice maker.
- Push the bottom ice tray duct back up until it snaps and locks securely into place.
- Reinstall the Ice Tray Duct Screw:
- Using the Philips screwdriver, reinstall the screw into the lower duct cover.
- Reconnect the Wiring Harness:
- Route the ice maker harness wire into its designated slot/channel first.
- Plug the connector back in firmly until the locking tab clicks into place.
- Reinstall the Wire Housing Cover:
- Slide the wire housing cover back into its position.
- Using the Philips screwdriver, reinstall the mounting screw.
- Reinstall the Ice Bucket:
- Slide the ice bucket back into its place until it is fully seated.
- Turn Refrigerator Power Back On:
- Press and hold the Energy Saver and Freezer buttons until the refrigerator turns on. After a short delay, you should hear the compressor start.
Important Post-Installation Notes:
Time to Make Ice: Allow sufficient time for the new ice maker and the compartment to cool down. It can take 1-2 hours, sometimes 6-12 hours, before producing ice. Be patient, keep the ice bucket installed, and keep the doors closed.
Frost/Moisture Buildup: If you experience excessive frost or moisture in the ice maker compartment:
- Shine a flashlight along the bottom edge of the compartment from the outside. If you see light inside, there is an air leak that needs to be sealed. Use a food-grade, low-temperature silicone sealant.
- Some earlier models might benefit from an updated Y-Clip kit (which often includes a rectangular plastic bracket and two metal clips) to improve sealing. Check if this applies to your specific build date or model revision.
If the video is removed, refer to the link on removing the ice maker in the Samsung RF28HMEDBSR. It contains most steps with images.