Samsung Refrigerator RFG297AARS/XAA Compressor Inop, Fan running.

[WazzuCoug]

Model Number

RFG297AARSXAA

Brand

Samsung

Age

6-10 years

Good afternoon!
My Samsung refrigerator is not cooling and has the following symptoms:
- problem started 2 months ago when the frig went warm but then revived itself. Now it is not cooling at all.
- slow-blinking, red LED (= "Start Failure"),
- the compressor is inop (even in the manual service mode),
- the PCB Inverter board has evidence of being very hot (behind it the plastic enclosure is warped and discolored),
- and the opposing fan is running.

I have done the following troubleshooting:
- tested the wiring from the PCB board down to the compressor for continuity -- all good,
- looked over the main board and it appears normal,
- replaced the Overload Protector,
- checked all the big capacitors with a multimeter and they are good,
- tried to fire up the compressor directly with SUPCO 3-in-1 kit, but the compressor vibrates for 5 seconds then shuts down
- according to the stickers on the circuit boards, the model #'s are:
MAIN BRD: DA41-00538MP PCB-INV BRD: DA41-00614FP

So, now I am confused on the next step. I don't want to blindly throw expensive parts at it.
Could you please give me some guidance what to do (test) next?
As an all-around handy man, I am confident that I can fix the problem, once it is identified. I am ready to replace the compressor if necessary.
Thank you.

 

[Jake]

Here's the service manual for your model: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PiLF1lwbaijQcRBIW0K_SnVqGDH5t8WH/view?usp=sharing

Look on Page 93 where it says: 4-2-18. If compressor does not operate There is a flowchart that will walk you through the testing procedure to do.

Here's the main control board for your model you can order if needed:
DA41-00538A Pba Main


Here's the compressor inverter board for your model you can order if needed:
Inverter Board DA41-00614F


Jake

 

[SWall]

Hi jake,

I am having a similar problem with my Samsung RFG297AARS/XAC. I get the starting failure light blinking, then after 5 min the fan and the compressor kick in, but no cooling in the fridge/freezer and also no ice making. I took a brief look into that manual but require some assistance as to where to start. I was going to order a PCB sub inverter board but I am now not sure of that is the issue or not. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated

Sean

 

[Jake]

Ok Sean, pull the refrigerator out from the wall, then remove the lower back access panel and see if the condenser fan motor(next to the compressor) is running.

Also put your hand on the top of the compressor and see if that's running and hot to the touch.

Jake

 

[parlee]

Hello Wazzu,
I hope you fixed the issue.

I am wondering if you can help me.
I have a same model as you have Samsung refrigerator. I disconnected the over load protector wires and i am not sure which wire go where.
Thought simple enough to remember but several days passed now I don't remember. Duh
I should have done marked it or took a picture but now unsure.
I think top of OLP brown wire and side would be blue wire.
Will you be able to check your over load protector near compressor and let me know?