Samsung refrigerators

The reports, as CPSC published them

1601. No one hurt

      Made May 8, 2019 · , sent to the company Jun 17, 2019 · , published by CPSC Jul 2, 2019

      The product, in the report: Samsung French Door Refrigerator, Model # RF24FSEDBSR, Stainless Steel

      Samsung Refrigerator (Model # RF24FSEDBSR) has known factory defects affecting the ice box and the ability for the refrigerator compartment to stay cold. The ice box has cracked allowing plastic to enter the area where ice forms causing potential choking or ingestion of plastic pieces. The warming temperature of the refrigerator will lead to food spoilage which could lead to inadvertent consumption of bacteria infected food. I am concerned for my safety as well as my family’s safety.

      Model

      RF24FSEDBSR

      Serial number

      W65043BH100269X

      Bought from

      Lowes, Alaska

      Bought

      Apr 20, 2016

      Where

      Anchorage, Alaska: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 40, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1602. Hurt, care not known

      Made Apr 10, 2019 · , sent to the company Jun 7, 2019 · , published by CPSC Jun 21, 2019

      The product, in the report: Refrigerator

      The mold or mildew is inside the door panel and cannot be easily cleaned

      The consumer indicates that she saw black flakes floating in her cup of water. The consumer checked her refrigerator and noticed that there is mold in the door panel where ice and water is dispensed.

      The consumer states that since October 2018, she has had ongoing chronic sinus infection, difficulty breathing, fatigue, headaches, and dizziness, and believes the refrigerator is the cause.

      The consumer contacted the Manufacturer and explained the situation; the representative she spoke to informed her that they could send a Service Technician to inspect the unit however they would not pay for the service if the mold was not due to a defect in manufacturing.

      The consumer plans on keeping her refrigerator for at least the next thirty days in case an investigation ensues.

      Model

      RF263TEAESG/AA

      Serial number

      0AJD4BBH802304Y

      Bought from

      Lowe’s, Alabama

      Where

      Daphne, Alabama: Unspecified

      Who was involved

      Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, Level of care not known

1603. No one hurt

      Made Nov 5, 2018 · , sent to the company Mar 5, 2019 · , published by CPSC Mar 20, 2019

      The product, in the report: french door refrigerator with an ice and water dispenser and a bottom freezer

      (10/08/2018) The consumer stated that a piece of plastic fell into her husband’s glass when he got ice out of the dispenser. He did not see the plastic until he started to swallow the water.

      The consumer had a technician to come out to look at the unit. The broken piece of plastic came from the ice receptacle.

      There were no injuries.

      Model

      RF23M8070SR/AA

      Serial number

      093K43BJC00401N

      Bought from

      RC Willey, California

      Bought

      Feb 3, 2018, about then

      Where

      Roseville, California: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Spouse

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1604. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Aug 31, 2018 · , sent to the company Sep 10, 2018 · , published by CPSC Sep 24, 2018

      The product, in the report: Samsung French door refrigerator with ice maker

      The first time I noticed my icemaker on the refrigerator was serving broken shards of plastic along with ice was when my small child reached into her mouth and pulled a piece out. I was not sure where it came from until a short time later when I too chomped down onto a sharp piece of white plastic. As I pulled the plastic out of my gum I was outraged. I called Samsung to report this and all they said was they could send me a replacement ice box as long as my refrigerator was still under warrantee. It was not. I have had this fridge for 2 years and now it has become a choking and puncture hazard for my family. We no longer let our children us the ice maker and are in the process of looking for a new fridge. This is a Samsung model RS25J500DSR/AA Date of manufacture-APR.2016 I hope this is an isolated problem but felt the need to report this just in case others are having the same issue and to prevent a child or adult from an injury.

      Model

      RS25J500DSR

      Serial number

      0AH54BBH401182M

      Bought from

      THE HOME DEPOT, Virginia

      Bought

      Apr 23, 2016, about then

      Where

      disputanta, Virginia: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 34, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1605. Seen by a doctor or nurse

      Made Aug 27, 2018 · , sent to the company Sep 5, 2018 · , published by CPSC Sep 19, 2018

      The product, in the report: Samsung refrigerator with french doors and in the door Ice/Water in 5/2017 (Model#: RF28JBEDBSG). It has a manufacture date of March 2017 with a S/N: 07Y743AJ304729B.

      We purchased a Samsung refrigerator with french doors and in the door Ice/Water in 5/2017 (Model#: RF28JBEDBSG). It has a manufacture date of March 2017 with a S/N: 07Y743AJ304729B. It ran great from May 2017 until around Jan 2018. In March 2018, we reported the freezing up of the ice maker drain and surrounding area. It would freeze up to the point where the auger would not turn, and then I would use a hair dryer and towels to defrost the ice maker area. This cycle would repeat every a few weeks starting late 2017 and early 2018. It was always a huge water mess in the kitchen. In March 2018, I called Lowe’s Protection Plan, and they were able to get a company to come replace parts ([REDACTED]). Research at the time on Google searches, Samsung forums, Lowe’s reviews, etc showed that this fix would work so that the problem would never come back, or it would return over and over again with weeks/months between failures. We did have some slight freezing up start again mid summer 2018 (this summer). With travel and busy schedules, we were not around to keep a close eye on the timing of the failure. We had a total freeze up in July, and I have reported the problem again mid to late August 2018. They will again replace the parts (Ice Maker, Auger, and Y-Clips).

      Initially, I was concerned with the headache this would be for me in the future having to call Lowe’s every few weeks, and I asked that they replace the unit. As I thought about the situation, I remembered a couple times where my son came into the kitchen a bit quicker than normal to find himself laid out on the tile because of water at the refrigerator door due to melted ice from the frozen ice maker area. We applied ice to the lump on the back of his head for a bit, and I checked his eyes for signs of concussion. He seemed to be fine, and the ice took down the swelling. We observed him the remainder of the day. I also, experienced a slip (I did not a fall) when I had to use crutches for 6 weeks earlier this summer. I did have to put weight on my leg a bit to prevent a fall, but ice seems to have fixed that pain. The Dr. I was seeing for my acl/tibia did not think too much damage would have been done. So, after reflection on this problem, and dealing with Lowe’s and Samsung (Sellers) support... I determined they do not plan on fixing these problems with a permanent solution when these issues are reported. They are banking on people just dealing with the problems until the units are out of warranty, and then the Sellers can move onto other problems once the warranty time has elapsed.

      My major concern at the moment is to have proper fixes and safety in place for elderly and kids (mostly) that could really get hurt badly when a melted ice/water mess is not noticed in time due to this faulty design. If the sellers know that the problems come back multiple times after the first two failures, then they should take the faulty units out of homes and businesses. If after the first repair the problem does not arise again, then it should be allowed to work properly. However, if the problem happens a second time, I would love for the Sellers to error on the side of safety and fairness.

      Here are the companies I have called and their tickets and phone numbers:

      Lowe’s Store Joplin, MO (Manager is a lady named [REDACTED] ) Lowe’s Incident Ticket# [REDACTED] 888-775-6937 (Lowe’s Service Advantage) [REDACTED] Samsung Support (Ticket#: [REDACTED]) 800-726-7864

      Sites about issue: (From at least 2016 until present with this issue) [REDACTED]

      **************** **************** FROM THE CLASS ACTION being pursued **************** ****************

      A class action lawsuit has been filed alleging that a defect within the ice makers is causing a number of problems, including, but not limited to the following:

      Water leaking to beneath the fridges’ crisper trays (where most people keep fruits and vegetables)

      Noise (often described as “loud,” “clicking,” “jarring,” “grinding,” “knocking” or “buzzing”) when the fan hits the “over-iced” compartment

      The formation of ice crystals, water droplets and “slushy ice” at the bottom of the ice maker

      Ice buckets that are “stuck” and cannot be removed, possibly due to clogged drains

      Over-freezing of water in the ice compartment

      At least one class action has already hit the manufacturer, but attorneys suspect additional lawsuits can be filed to help hold Samsung accountable for the money consumers spent when purchasing – and fixing the ice makers on – their fridges.

      **** This make sense it is a class action, but from what I can tell it is life threatening and something that can cause bodily injury to many involved. I would say it needs more than a class action. It needs immediate attention from a safety position. My son was lucky, but broken hips, legs, arms, wrists, concussions, etc could definitely be the result of a fall due to this Samsung failure. Please protect consumers who purchased one of these types of units of Samsung build! Thank you for reviewing these situations.

      Model

      RF28JBEDBSG

      Serial number

      07Y743AJ304729B

      Bought from

      Lowe’s

      Bought

      May 31, 2017

      Where

      Carl Junction, Missouri: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 48, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, Seen by Medical Professional

1606. Seen by a doctor or nurse

      Made Aug 5, 2018 · , sent to the company Aug 13, 2018 · , published by CPSC Aug 27, 2018

      The product, in the report: Samsung French Door/Bottom Freezer Refrigerator

      I purchased a Samsung French Door, Bottom Freezer Refrigerator (Model # RF26J7500BC) in July 2015 from Home Depot for approximately $2,000. It worked satisfactorily for approximately one year, and then I noticed the ice maker stopped working and water was leaking from the door. I looked online and realized that almost everyone who purchased this model had similar issues. You have to “defrost” the unit with a hair dryer to loosen the ice build-up almost every month, which solves the problem temporarily. The dispenser allows water to leak down the door to the floor and the ice is “mushy.” The dispenser flap also sometimes runs continuously, even though no one is pushing the dispenser for water or ice. Unfortunately even with towels and rugs on the floor to catch the water leak (my hardwood floor had already been ruined) I recently fell in a puddle of water injuring my back, and incurring thousands of dollars in medical bills. From all of my internet research, it appears that even having a Samsung authorized repairman come to fix the problem is a waste of money, as those that have done so, continue to have the same problem. A few years back, Samsung even issued a technical manual to its repairman admitting to them that there was a design defect in this model. Company executives knew about this problem and continued to sell this refrigerator to — causing a dangerous hazard to the public.

      Model

      RF26J7500BC/AA

      Serial number

      0AF74BBG600045K

      Bought from

      Home Depot

      Bought

      Jul 17, 2015, about then

      Where

      San Antonio, Texas: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 63, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, Seen by Medical Professional

1607. No one hurt

      Made Jun 26, 2018 · , sent to the company Jul 5, 2018 · , published by CPSC Jul 19, 2018

      The product, in the report: This is a Samsung 26 foot french door, bottom freezer refrigerator.

      I purchased a Samsung refrigerator less than 3 years ago for approximately $1,800.00. The refrigerator will not cool the food to a safe temperature. Regardless of what it is set to, the internal temperature averages between 47-54 degrees.

      Model

      RF263BEAESR

      Serial number

      JKJ44BBG401302P

      Bought from

      H.H. Gregg Appliances, Indiana

      Bought

      Jul 15, 2015, about then

      Where

      Indianapolis, Indiana: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Unspecified

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1608. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Jun 11, 2018 · , sent to the company Aug 17, 2018 · , published by CPSC Aug 31, 2018

      The product, in the report: refrigerator

      I purchased a Samsung refrigerator model RF263TEAESR. Just after warranty expired, problems began with the fan freezing and ice began to form and then melt inside the refrigerator. Not being able to afford repair, I went online to get ideas on repairs and discovered many other owners with the same problem. I read the fix was to unplug and defrost for a few days and then the fan would work and again cool the refrigerator, This is difficult and time consuming and required food to sit out for several days or at best in a cooler. After 2 times I cannot do that any more. I chip ice off the vent every few days , but it is very little help. I have the temperature set at 34 degrees and I just purchased a thermometer because it seemed everything was warm and the thermometer is at 50-60 degrees depending on where I put it. I have been sick for several weeks with unexplained diarrhea and weight loss and I believe it because bacteria is growing in my food. Samsung is aware of this problem and should do a recall.

      Model

      RF263TEAESR

      Serial number

      JRG04BBFC00373E

      Bought from

      BRANDSMART

      Bought

      Jan 8, 2015, about then

      Where

      Marietta, Georgia: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 65, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1609. No one hurt

      Made Apr 23, 2018 · , sent to the company Jun 27, 2018 · , published by CPSC Jul 12, 2018

      The product, in the report: Samsung Refrigerator French Door, Stainless Steel, Bottom Freezer, 35.7 inch width

      I purchased a new Samsung refrigerator from Best Buy on December 28, 2014. Here is the product information:

      Model Number: RF26HFENDSR/AA

      Serial Number: 0AF24BBFA07249D

      On April 20, 2018, upon opening the right-side refrigerator door, the top door hinge suddenly failed and the door collapsed. I managed to catch it with both hands, prop it up, and close it, thus preventing it from falling off completely and crashing to the floor along with food, glass jars and bottles, etc. Had I not caught the door just in time, it most certainly would’ve caused great damage to the door, the floor, and possibly bodily injury to myself and anyone else in the immediate area. My greatest concern is that my 3 year-old daughter sometimes opens the fridge door and the accident could’ve been much worse had the hinge failed when she opened it with possible severe injury and even death!

      On April 21, 2018, I brought this incident to the attention of Best Buy Geek Squad Protection hotline but to no avail. They said it’s out of warranty (Best Buy 3-year warranty recently expired on 1/28/18) and directed me to Samsung as the manufacturer of this product. I then called Samsung at 877-438-3774 and spoke to customer service rep “[REDACTED]” at approx. 9:00 AM MST. After gathering the necessary info, [REDACTED] proceeded to inform me that the 3-year manufacturer warranty on parts was expired and that my only recourse is to pay for a service technician to come out and fix the defective part, or call the Samsung parts dept., order the part, and attempt to fix the issue myself, essentially saying “you’re on your own”. This proposal was unacceptable to me so I then spoke to a customer service supervisor named “[REDACTED]” who essentially told me the same thing. The reference number for the call is [REDACTED].

      To be clear, this is not an ordinary parts issue due to normal wear and tear like the seal on the door coming off or anything like that. This is a CONSUMER SAFETY ISSUE due to a MANUFACTURER’S DEFECT IN THE PART. I have photos to prove it.

      Model

      RF26HFENDSR/AA

      Serial number

      0AF24BBFA07249D

      Bought from

      Best Buy

      Bought

      Dec 28, 2014

      Where

      Longmont, Colorado: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 39, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1610. No one hurt

      Made Apr 4, 2018 · , sent to the company Jul 11, 2018 · , published by CPSC Jul 25, 2018

      The product, in the report: Samsung refrigerator. Bottom freezer. Black. With in-door ice and water.

      Samsung refrigerator. Ice machine. We are now finding small slivers of white plastic in our ice. I have pictures.

      Model Number RF26VABBP

      I contacted Samsung. The call center instructed us to purchase a new “ice bucket.”

      Not satisfied with their response.

      Bought from

      Lowes

      Bought

      Jul 1, 2009, about then

      Where

      Aurora, Colorado: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 44, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1611. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Jan 6, 2018 · , sent to the company Mar 27, 2018 · , published by CPSC Apr 10, 2018

      The product, in the report: Samsung refrigerator, bottom freezer, french doors, model RF268abwp

      Upon opening the door to my Samsung model RF268abwp refrigerator, i noticed the top shelf was shatered but still together. I removed it and put it on the counter. I tried to figure out how it happened but have no idea. I left it on the counter for a few days then when i tried to moved it it broke into a million pieces. I cut myself trying to pick up some of the pieces to throw away. I had to use a dust pan on my counter to “sweep” up all the peices however they were very every small and sharp. I thought the glass shelf was made of tempered glass but apparently it isnt or it is defective. I called Samsung to see it they have had other complaints and also to see if they would replace the shelf (out of warrentee) and they said they havent had any complaints but when i look online at third party comments i see many people complaining. I told them that but they said that they dont use those comments. I asked how to make a report and they said they have it but there is no specific department i could talk to to be sure it is documented. They are not going to replace the shelf. this shelf could have fallen appart as i took it out of the refrigerator which would have been tiny shattered pieces all over the refrigerator. I did get cut and was very concerned if i got all the pieces as it was all over the counter.

      Model

      rf268abwp

      Serial number

      43fb4bbc100200b

      Bought from

      lowes

      Bought

      Jan 1, 2012, about then

      Where

      Pearl city, Hawaii: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 57, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1612. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Nov 9, 2017 · , sent to the company Nov 20, 2017 · , published by CPSC Dec 5, 2017

      The product, in the report: side by side refrigerator with ice maker/dispenser.

      In 2016, I purchased a Samsung kitchen product, refrigerator with built in ice maker, Samsung model number RS25J500DSR. A few months later, as I was dispensing ice, the plastic ice bucket/dispenser shattered, leaving a mess of ice and plastic shards in the freezer compartment.

      I replaced the ice bucket. 6 months later, it shattered again. More mess of ice and sharp plastic shards.

      Yesterday, November 8, 2017, it happened again with the same sharp shards and ice.

      My concern is that Samsung was very clear that this was just MY problem. No help at all.

      My other concern is that if I had young children, dispensing their own ice water, they could have ingested the water and swallowed the sharp plastic shards.

      Samsung needs to be forced to man-up and replace all of these refrigerators/ ice makers without delay.

      Model

      RS25J500DSR

      Serial number

      0AH54BAH300143Z

      Bought from

      SHERMANS APPLIANCES

      Bought

      Apr 17, 2016

      Where

      Bloomington, Illinois: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 68, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand SAMSUNG, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1613. No one hurt

      Made Jul 5, 2017 · , sent to the company Nov 7, 2017 · , published by CPSC Nov 22, 2017

      The product, in the report: Samsung french door refrigerator

      Samsung Refrigerator Model RF30HBEDBSR serial 06p043bf701009w

      Ice maker “exploded”. The ice contained 4 sharp metal objects and 4 or 5 plastic nuts (washers?) These were presumably part of the mechanism.

      This has been reported to Samsung. Awaiting response.

      Model

      RF30HBEDBSR

      Serial number

      06p043bf701009w

      Bought from

      best buy, Florida

      Bought

      Jan 1, 2015, about then

      Where

      sarasota, Florida: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Unspecified

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1614. Hurt, no treatment

      Made May 30, 2017 · , sent to the company Jun 7, 2017 · , published by CPSC Jun 21, 2017

      The product, in the report: This is a link to the product page: http://www.samsung.com/ca/support/model/RF32FMQDBSR/AA These are the model and Serial number of my unit. RF32FMQDBSR/AA W76643BFB02225A

      I have a Samsung 4 door French Door refrigerator. The door bins (2 of them) on the right upper door (facing the refrigerator) broke within a few days of each other. The bins fell on my feet, which was not pleasant. I’m concerned about these bins breaking and falling on children or pets. I have two small children and two small dogs. If they had been under me when I opened the doors they would have been seriously injured.

      The disturbing part is that the bins were not overloaded in any way. There were not gallons of milk on them, rather they were primarily loaded with half full bottles of salad dressing. I estimate a total of about 5lbs was on each bin when they broke. It looks to me like the material used becomes brittle over time, then cracks and causes the failure.

      My refrigerator model and SN are: RF32FMQDBSR/AA W76643BFB02225A

      Serial number

      RF32FMQDBSR/AA

      Bought from

      Blackburn Home Furnishings, Ohio

      Bought

      Feb 7, 2015

      Where

      Athens, Ohio: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 36, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1615. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Apr 17, 2017 · , sent to the company Jun 5, 2017 · , published by CPSC Jun 19, 2017

      The product, in the report: Refrigerator freezer

      I have a Samsung refrigerator freezer model RF26HFENDSR BUIL IN OCT 2014.

      The defrost of the fridge is defective in design. It freezes the drain tray and drain. The result is pooling water around the fridge. This pooling water creates a shock hazard as well as a potential slip and fall.

      This has been an ongoing problem every since it was new.

      The internet is full of people who have shared the same story. I against my better judgment added wire to conduct heat from the heater on the fridge to the tray in an attempt to fix the problem. It did work for some time but it has failed to be the remedy.

      The design is faulty and a clear safety issue.

      Model

      RF26HFENDSR

      Bought from

      Home Depot, Michigan

      Bought

      Nov 1, 2015, about then

      Where

      Hemlock, Michigan: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 53, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1616. First aid

      Made Apr 9, 2017 · , sent to the company May 18, 2017 · , published by CPSC Jun 2, 2017

      The product, in the report: Double Door Samsung Refrigerator w/ bottom drawer: model number RFG295AARS

      Our Samsung refrigerator was heating up and melting part of the light bulb socket (where it screws in). When we contacted Samsung support they said there were no known problems with our model number, RFG295AARS. We assured them that this was in fact a problem and explained that it is only noticeable if you take the plastic cover off and detach the light socket as it is hidden from plain sight. This was happening on both light bulb sockets. After sending photos, Samsung said they would send someone out to look at it free of charge in order to document and evaluate if this was of larger concern to the company. Next, I was contacted by the outsourced service representative who insisted it would be a $75 charge. Apparently Samsung did not relay that it was a fire risk and should be inspected free of charge. We went round and round with Samsung, which ultimately never ended the problem being investigated. Today, a couple of months later, one of the bulbs exploded, sending shards of glass out toward my wife who was unloading groceries. Then it started sparking and the burning the metal under the light bulb. Luckily, I was nearby and was able to pull the refrigerator out, unplug it, and put out the fire! It is clear that Samsung model number RFG295AARS has undetected problems putting owners at risk!

      Model

      RFG295AARS

      Serial number

      C77443CSB00235 A

      Bought from

      Lowes, Michigan

      Bought

      Mar 1, 2009, about then

      Where

      Algonac, Michigan: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 33, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Spouse

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional

1617. No one hurt

      Made Apr 9, 2017 · , sent to the company May 19, 2017 · , published by CPSC Jun 5, 2017

      The product, in the report: French door over freezer drawer, upper and lower ice makers, 26 cf

      Main computer board failure. IC90 (Rohm BA6219B) created a small fire within the plastic mounting cabinet. Circuit board burnt on both sides resulting in loss of solder joints on back and hole burnt into cabinet.

      Model

      RF268ABBP

      Serial number

      DO1243CZ601316K

      Bought from

      lowes, Pennsylvania

      Where

      pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 55, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1618. No one hurt

      Made Mar 16, 2017 · , sent to the company Jun 9, 2017 · , published by CPSC Jun 23, 2017

      The product, in the report: Stainless steel refrigerator

      Please refer to Samsung refrigerator complaints that you already have, and ours is the same. We have the problem of the back panel fan not working, ice buildup on the panel, moisture and wetness in both meat and vege drawers. Mold growing behind drawers. Temperature fluctuates because it is not defrosting. We purchased it in 2013 from Howard’s Appliance in Alhambra, Ca., and they are not helpful at all, and claim they had no knowledge of any such problem. The model RF24FSEDBSR was manufactured 4/2013. We Just had it repaired, $390, and the repairman told us that it probably happen again. HE was familiar with the issue on these sAmsung refrigerators. There was lots of mold growing behind the drawers, so we do not feel very safe now with this appliance.

      Model

      RF24FSDEBSR

      Serial number

      W65043BD400929M

      Bought from

      Howard’s Appliance

      Where

      PAsadena, California: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 66, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1619. No one hurt

      Made Mar 16, 2017 · , sent to the company Apr 28, 2017 · , published by CPSC May 12, 2017

      The product, in the report: Samsung refrigerator/freezer with “French Doors” and bottom drawer freezer, stainless exterior, 70 inches tall and 36 inches wide.

      Ice maker in Samsung refrigerator has a plastic housing. This housing cracks and chips. Plastic shards have been deposited into consumption glasses/containers that pass from the ice bin through the “in the door” feature. The ice maker either drops ice cubes whole or crushed. Plastic shards (and possibly ground/crushed plastic) have been found in the bottom of glasses and even in the garbage disposal unit after ice remnants are dumped into the sink prior to the glass being placed in the dishwasher.

      We have not determined any injury but the potential for injury exists from accidentally ingesting plastic pieces, chip and shards of plastic.

      Model

      RF267AERS/XAA01

      UPC

      unknown

      Serial number

      unlocated

      Bought from

      Sears

      Bought

      Apr 5, 2012, about then

      Where

      Yantis, Texas: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 65, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1620. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Mar 8, 2017 · , sent to the company Jun 22, 2017 · , published by CPSC Jul 7, 2017

      The product, in the report: refrigerator

      The consumer states that the cooling agent in the back of the unit is causing the unit to leak water underneath. She said she has fallen twice and her son has fell from the water on the floor that leaked from the unit.

      (November 2016) She said the second time she fell she hit her head on the lower handle of the unit and caused her to get a large knot.

      The consumer then contacted the firm to inform them of the incident and her safety concerns. They filed a claim (reference #[REDACTED]-[REDACTED]) and advised her that they would give her a replacement. The consumer received a letter from [REDACTED], a paralegal with the firm confirming a replacement unit and $250 compensation for damaged food in the fridge.

      Model

      RF267ABRS

      UPC

      Unknown

      Serial number

      081142BQ502164E

      Bought from

      Best Buy, South Carolina

      Bought

      Jul 9, 2008

      Where

      West Columbia, South Carolina: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 7, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Child

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1621. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Jan 6, 2017 · , sent to the company Jan 17, 2017 · , published by CPSC Feb 1, 2017

      The product, in the report: Model RSG307AARS, stainless steel, side by side

      I am reporting an incident with our 4 year old Samsung Refrigerator (Model RSG307AARS). My son was opening the refrigerator door and also touching the freezer door, when he was shocked. I have verified that this was 120V AC. The problem originates with the refrigerator door (right side). At the top are two wires that go from the chassis/frame through a channel in the hinge into the door. Upon removing the hinge cover, it was evident that the two wires were severed. The wires include a power and a ground. So, the fact that they were severed applied voltage to the door and simultaneously removed the protective ground. Once my son touched both doors, he completed the circuit providing the path to ground through him and into the freezer door which is properly grounded. It is worth noting that I have not disassembled the door to determine what caused the wires to sever. Also, once I disconnected the cable at the hinge connector, the applied voltage goes away. So, I am confident this is the problem. As an electrical engineer and former UL engineer, I know how dangerous this is, especially having the voltage applied to both hands with the energy passing through the chest of my son. I am concerned that there may be other incidences of this that are waiting to happen. Samsung has been notified but after 48 hours has yet to respond with a technician to investigate further.

      Model

      RSG307AARS

      Bought from

      Best Buy, Iowa

      Bought

      Mar 8, 2012

      Where

      Marion, Iowa: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 14, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Child

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1622. No one hurt

      Made Dec 7, 2016 · , sent to the company Jan 24, 2017 · , published by CPSC Feb 7, 2017

      The product, in the report: refrigerator-French door-stainless

      (11/01/2016)The consumer stated that the plastic casing that is around the ice/water dispenser is chipping. The top left corner has chipped off. The lower right side of the casing has also chipped off and has a sharp edge.

      There are also pieces of plastic that have come off of the bottom underneath of the freezer drawer. The pieces are very sharp.

      The consumer is concern that this is a hazard to children or toddlers if they find these pieces and put the plastic in their mouths.

      (11/2/2016) The consumer contacted the firm to advised them of the incident. She was advised that someone would get back to her.

      The consumer was given a tracking number-[REDACTED]

      (11/15/2016) The consumer received a message advising consumer to call the firm. The consumer called the firm back and was advised that someone would come out to take a look at the product to see if it is a defect.

      (12/01/2016) A technician from Cyber World Electronics came out. Pictures were taken of the product. The consumer was advised that the plastic could not be replaced and a new door would have to be ordered.

      The consumer will email pictures of the product.

      Model

      RF4287HARS/XAA

      Serial number

      I 02043CC500909M

      Bought from

      Lowes, Georgia

      Bought

      Nov 16, 2013, about then

      Where

      Evans, Georgia: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Unknown

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1623. Hurt, care not known

      Made Aug 1, 2016 · , sent to the company Aug 9, 2016 · , published by CPSC Aug 23, 2016

      The product, in the report: Samsung side by side refrigerator/freezer

      I bought a Samsung refrigerator February 2015. In the past 6 months, I have had numerous occasions where it just stops cooling. I have troubleshooted everything and to be honest, I should not have this problem with a high priced refrigerator that is only a year and a half old. My concern is that at times, my elderly mother is here. Between her and my children, neither set are aware of the difference in temperature. I have 4 boys, and yesterday each got up and had a bowl of cereal with milk that did not have proper refrigeration. They are all suffering from stomach upset due to this faulty product. I can only imagine what would have happened if it had been the meat that was consumed. After looking through online for solutions, I have come to realize that this is not a problem unique to me. I am appalled that they have continued to produce these substandard appliances and not recalled them for the safety of the consumer.

      Model

      RS25H5111SR

      Serial number

      0AC64BBF104409V

      Bought from

      Sears

      Bought

      Feb 23, 2015

      Where

      Colorado Springs, Colorado: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 3, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Child

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, Level of care not known

1624. First aid

      Made Jun 10, 2016 · , sent to the company Jun 20, 2016 · , published by CPSC Jul 5, 2016

      The product, in the report: Samsung 25.5 cubic foot refrigerator, color black, french doors (side by side) with freezer on the bottom

      Purchased a Samsung refrigeration on 12/5/15 at Lowe’s in Port St. Lucie, FL. Model number RF260BEAEBC/AA. Serial number JKLZ4BBG900423D. Fridge has french doors (side by side) with freezer on bottom. One month later in January one of the inside door shelves broke as the door was opened, spilling the contents (salad dressing bottles, etc) to the floor. The clear plastic front of the shelf cracked and separated from where it was attached to the back part of the shelf. We called Samsung and they sent a replacement shelf. In March, when the fridge was 3 months old, a second shelf failed in the same way. We called Samsung for a replacement. In the meantime, a THIRD shelf broke, this time causing a minor cut to my 15 year old son’s foot. He was barefoot at the time. We called Samsung to report this and ask why the second shelf had not been received. They said a technician would be sent to examine the broken shelves. On 5/18/16 a technician came, taking pictures of broken shelving and inside the refrigerator. He said a report and pictures would be sent to Samsung. After not hearing anything for over two week, we called Samsung and they said the failing shelves were considered “cosmetic damage” and would not be covered. This is ridiculous since their one year warranty states “Samsung will repair or replace any part found to be defective...” Apparently collapsing shelves are considered “cosmetic damage.” This is a serious safety issue having shelving collapse as the fridge doors are opened, spilling their contents onto the floor. I took my complaints to Lowe’s and they also called Samsung while I waited. They were also told the failing shelves were considered cosmetic damage and the refrigeration could not be returned. Please help.

      Model

      RF260BEAEBC/AA

      Serial number

      JKLZ4BBG900423D

      Bought from

      Lowe’s

      Bought

      Dec 5, 2015

      Where

      Port St. Lucie,, Florida: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 15, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Child

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional

1625. No one hurt

      Made Apr 28, 2016 · , sent to the company May 6, 2016 · , published by CPSC May 20, 2016

      The product, in the report: Samsung French Door refrigerator.

      Ongoing problem... Samsung French door refrigerator cooling coil is icing up and leaking water into the upper storage compartment of the refrigerator. Standing water and ice causing growth of black mold underneath food storage bins. Repairman told me that this is a very common design problem with ALL Samsung French Door refrigerators.

      Model

      RF26HFENDSR

      Serial number

      0AF24BBFB03632E

      Bought from

      Home Depot

      Bought

      Nov 28, 2014

      Where

      Alpharetta, Georgia: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Unspecified

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1626. First aid

      Made Sep 12, 2015 · , sent to the company Sep 21, 2015 · , published by CPSC Oct 5, 2015

      The product, in the report: Samsung Refrigerator

      Samsung fridge has design defect in support system for shelves in main fridge area. This is a french door fridge with shelves on left and right side. Both outer edge shelf holders have more than adequate fasteners to hold shelves, but design flaw exists in that the center rail only has two screws, one on top and one at the bottom.

      Any first year mechanical engineering student (and as I am a registered electrical engineering EIT working in the fire and forensics field) would be able to figure out that this support structure is not enough for the product. This possesses a major flaw in that the one and only screw at the top penetrates the substructure by only about 1/8”. This creates a safety hazard when heavy items are placed (such as gallons of milk or other liquids) on the shelves, as the upper screw will pull out and allow the items on the shelves to fall out onto the unsuspecting child, without touching those items. This can be and WILL be very dangerous. What was Samsung’s response to this? to place a screw (for those that complained) that was only another 1/8” longer. So after another 6 months of use on the product, that screw has started to pull out as well, creating the deadly scenario again.

      Even after making Samsung aware that their fix was not sufficient (as the center rail needed at least the same if not more support than the outer rails), they refused to correct the situation.

      Model

      RF261BEAEBC

      Serial number

      JKM84BBC800454B

      Where

      Fort Wayne, Indiana: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 8, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional

1627. Seen by a doctor or nurse

      Made Aug 31, 2015 · , sent to the company Sep 9, 2015 · , published by CPSC Sep 23, 2015

      The product, in the report: stainless side-by-side freezer/fridge

      After moving into my new home (previous owner left kitchen appliances, including Samsung refrigerator M# RS2630SH/XAA, SN# 006242BY900765P), my 8 year old son burned his hand on the refrigerator panel. The fridge is a side-by-side model, where the doors come together at a panel that runs up the middle of the fridge. This panel runs intermittently hot, varying from extremely hot, to excessively warm. The left side of the unit also runs warm; however, this does not pose a safety issue as the unit is not designed for hands to enter at that point.

      The burn required medical attention that was dealt with at our home as both parents are medical professionals. It was a superficial burn and he did not sustain permanent damage. He was in a great deal of pain however. When I contacted Samsung to report the issue (ticket #4131899819) I was informed that Samsung would not be taking any action as the burn did not require medical intervention and no reimbursement was due to me since there were not medical expenses incurred. I find this very alarming as the refrigerator is clearly malfunctioning and my three children are at risk of injury every time the fridge is opened. I feel Samsung is not performing the required due diligence to determine if there is a malfunction that puts other users at risk.

      Model

      RS2630SH/XAA

      Serial number

      006242BY900765P

      Where

      Leawood, Kansas: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 9, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Child

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, Seen by Medical Professional

1628. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Aug 21, 2015 · , sent to the company Aug 31, 2015 · , published by CPSC Sep 15, 2015

      The product, in the report: Samsung French Door Refrigerator Refrigerator Model Code: RF28HDEDESRIAA SN: 06EC43AF503743

      Hi, I bought a new Samsung Refrigerator in November, 2014. It was delivered, installed, and was working fine. Recently we had a power outage, and my refrigerator went into “demo mode” where it turns itself off, but looks like it’s on... I went for days without realizing it was off. I have parkinsons so I cant smell. I was eating spoiled food and drinking spoiled milk. I got sick. Only after several days did I figure it out. I lost a whole refrigerator worth of food, and got sick to boot. Please pass a rule or law to prevent manufacturers from selling products built to turn itself off after power failure, and absolutely do not allow it to look like it is running when it is not. A recall to fix my refrigerator would be a good thing also... Thanks

      Model

      RF28HDEDESRIAA

      Serial number

      06EC43AF503743

      Bought from

      US-Appliance

      Bought

      Nov 10, 2014

      Where

      Tucson, United States: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 57, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1629. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Jul 30, 2015 · , sent to the company Aug 7, 2015 · , published by CPSC Aug 21, 2015

      The product, in the report: Samsung model # RS2630sh Power 115V/60hz compressor mk183c-l2u bom name rs2630sh/xaa Faux stainless finish side by side refrigerator

      My Samsung rs2630sh side by side refrigerator fan quit working 2 years after purchasing it new. This caused the seal wall of the refrigerator to heat up. It was to the point of making you flinch when you touched it upon taking things in or out of the fridge. I replaced the fan with a fan from partstore.com. $46 plus shipping. One year later it has malfunctioned again. The fan has stopped working and the seal is getting hotter and hotter each day. Upon searching online there are huge amount of complaints about this exact same problem. Its dangerous for children! and for adults!

      Model

      rs2630sh

      Serial number

      dont know

      Bought from

      best buy

      Bought

      Jul 1, 2009

      Where

      new castle, Pennsylvania: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 41, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Spouse

      As this report names them

      Brand samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1630. No one hurt

      Made Jul 7, 2015 · , sent to the company Jul 15, 2015 · , published by CPSC Jul 29, 2015

      The product, in the report: Current model Samsung RF 263 refrigerator that has an unsafe design. There are many instances on the internet describing the defect and how to temporarily fix it. It is supposedly an auto defrost but the design is incorrect and the defroster freezes up, blocking the fan and ultimately turning off the refrigerator. I just discovered this when I went to get some milk and found the refrigerator at 65 degrees F. A call to Samsung found they knew how to fix it (manual defrost) but they disowned the problem. This refrigerator is a crap shoot with salmonella. I can imagine an older person who is not attentive getting very sick from the food kept in this refrigerator after the defroster turns off the compressor.

      The Samsung RF 263 refrigerator that has an unsafe design. There are many instances on the internet describing the defect and how to temporarily fix it.

      It is supposedly an auto defrost but the design is incorrect and the defroster freezes up, blocking the fan and ultimately turning off the refrigerator. I just discovered this when I went to get some milk and found the refrigerator at 65 degrees F.

      A call to Samsung found they knew how to fix it (manual defrost) but they disowned the problem.

      This refrigerator is a crap shoot with salmonella. I can imagine an older person who is not attentive getting very sick from the food kept in this refrigerator after the defroster turns off the compressor.

      Model

      RF263

      Bought from

      Lowes

      Bought

      Oct 20, 2010

      Where

      Glen Arm, Maryland: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Unspecified

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1631. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Mar 5, 2015 · , sent to the company Mar 13, 2015 · , published by CPSC Mar 27, 2015

      The product, in the report: Samsung Refrigerator Model Number: RS261MDRS Serial Number: JJ664BBD609206Z

      On 2-26-2015 my wife was drinking from her water bottle and noticed a large, sharp plastic object in the cup with her ice; she showed it to me. This is the third time our ice maker has spit out pieces of plastic. The first time it happened I cut my lip. The ice maker malfunctions breaking off sharp, jagged pieces of plastic into the ice bin. This will be the third incident reported to Samsung, and my third reported to the CPSC. Samsung still wont recognize this as a dangerous product and refuses to replace the whole refrigerator, instead opting to continue to replace the ice making unit. It is an obvious design flaw that is endangering myself and my families lives. Enclosed is a picture of the piece of plastic found in my wife’s water bottle. Please send me a hard copy in the mail that you have received this report.

      Model

      RS261MDRS

      Serial number

      JJ664BBD609206Z

      Bought from

      HHGregg

      Bought

      Jul 6, 2013

      Where

      Pickerington, Ohio: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 54, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Spouse

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1632. No one hurt

      Made Dec 18, 2014 · , sent to the company Jan 14, 2015 · , published by CPSC Jan 29, 2015

      The product, in the report: Refrigerator (french door, top bottom style)

      In May 2014, the consumer stated that water started collecting below the crisper drawer in the refrigerator compartment.

      The consumer contacted the retailer but was informed that the unit was out of warranty. The consumer was informed to have a factory repair serviceman come out for inspection.

      A technician came out from A&E Factory Service. The technician knew exactly what the issue was. The heat sink tab on the drain was not long enough. The technician replaced the tab. The consumer paid $238.00 for the repair (including $6.00 part cost).

      The consumer started having the same issue again in December 2014. The consumer contacted the manf and he was not provided any assistance.

      The consumer also contacted A&E Factory Service and Lowe’s and was not provided any assistance.

      The consumer went to speak to appliance manager at Lowe’s. The manager stated that this is a very common problem and that they are aware of it.

      The consumer believes that this is a health and safety hazard for two reasons. 1) With the standing water, the refrigerator develops mold and odor. 2) If the water is not sponged out every couple of days, the water flows out from the refrigerator into the freezer compartment, polluting the freezer compartment.

      Model

      RFG298AARS

      Serial number

      C78743CZA03670X

      Bought from

      Lowe’s, Florida

      Bought

      Jan 1, 2011, about then

      Where

      Marco Island, Florida: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1633. No one hurt

      Made Oct 17, 2014 · , sent to the company Oct 27, 2014 · , published by CPSC Nov 10, 2014

      The product, in the report: Samsung Refrigerator

      The refrigerator center panel heats up to extreme temperatures. Bother Freezer and Fridge door also get very hot. The condenser fan stops working and makes a strange noise.

      Model

      RS2630SH

      Bought from

      Frye’s Electronics

      Bought

      Feb 15, 2007, about then

      Where

      Huntsville, Texas: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Unknown

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1634. No one hurt

      Made Sep 29, 2014 · , sent to the company Oct 6, 2014 · , published by CPSC Oct 21, 2014

      The product, in the report: SAMSUNG French Door Refrigerator, Stainless Steel

      Samsung Refrigerator French Door Model: RF 261 BEA ESR / AA

      The tempered glass shelf shattered during the night. On opening the door in the morning, shards of glass were all over the inside of the fridge -- all over food containers, in the door, all over the other shelves. There were no hot or heavy items on the shelf.

      There was no warning or explanation for the glass shelf shattering.

      While no one was injured, had this happened while someone had the door open, the injuries could have been severe.

      We have children at eye level with the glass shelves. They could have been cut or even blinded.

      Samsung denies this has ever happened before. However[ REDACTED] research would indicate otherwise.

      Model

      Model: RF 261 BEAESR/AA

      Serial number

      JKKK 4BBDA 00597D

      Bought from

      Best Buy

      Bought

      May 25, 2014

      Where

      Annapolis, Maryland: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Unspecified

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand SAMSUNG, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1635. No one hurt

      Made Aug 4, 2014 · , sent to the company Aug 13, 2014 · , published by CPSC Aug 27, 2014

      The product, in the report: Samsung refrigerator. Stainless steel finish with french doors. Two sliding drawers, one for freezer, one flex drawer. Ice and water dispenser on front.

      I used the ice dispenser for a glass of lemonade. As I was drinking I noticed something hard in my mouth that shouldn’t be in lemonade. It was a small piece of plastic. I inspected the ice dispenser on the refrigerator and found the plastic had broken off of the chute on one side. The plastic on the other side is in tact but you can see it is cracked and ready to fall off.

      Model

      RF4287HARS

      Bought from

      Lowes, Wisconsin

      Bought

      Nov 26, 2011

      Where

      Iron Ridge, Wisconsin: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 33, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1636. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Jul 17, 2014 · , sent to the company Oct 15, 2014 · , published by CPSC Oct 29, 2014

      The product, in the report: Refrigerator, side by side

      The consumer stated that there are two hazards with his refrigerator. The first hazard is with the ice box in the freezer and the second is with vegetable bin.

      Ice Box: The consumer stated that he had the same incident occur twice with the ice box.

      The consumer stated that about 2-3 months, 2 pieces of plastic came off of the ice tray into his glass when he was getting ice from the machine. The consumer stated that he saw the pieces and didn’t drink from the glass. The consumer stated that the ice pieces were about an inch long each.

      The consumer stated that he contacted the manf. They sent out a technician from Capital City Appliance to repair the issue. The consumer sated that the technician replaced the whole ice making unit including the ice tray.

      The consumer stated that on 7/5/14, he was getting some ice water. The consumer took a drink of the ice water, and a piece of the plastic cut the left inside of his mouth. The consumer stated that the piece is about 1/4 inch.

      The consumer went to the retailer and informed them about the issue. He was informed to contact the manf. The consumer stated that he looked at the other units in the store and saw that the manf no longer makes model with similar ice box.

      The consumer contacted the manf and left them a message. The consumer was called back and left messages three times by the manf asking him information about doctor and hospital. The consumer spoke to the manf and informed them that he did not go to a doctor or hospital. The consumer stated that the rep he spoke to seemed to not care about the incident once he informed her that he did not seek any medical help. The consumer asked to have the whole refrigerator replaced with a model that has a different ice box design.

      The manf sent a technician on 7/16/14 from Computek Warranty. The technician informed the consumer to not use the energy saver button. He stated that this has happened quite often with this model. The technician replaced the ice box and put in a new gasket.

      The consumer has the piece of plastic that injured him. The consumer stated that he has been running around in circles with the manf. The consumer has not been able to speak to anyone higher up. The consumer stated that this is a design flaw with the unit that will keep re-occurring even if the ice box is replaced.

      Vegetable Bin: The consumer stated that the lower right side bin does not cool the vegetables enough. The consumer stated that they have discarded some things due to spoilage.

      The technician from Computek Warranty looked at this issue and informed the consumer that the manf left a piece of foam (used in packaging) inside the vent. The technician removed the piece.

      The consumer stated that the bin still does not cool as much.

      Model

      RS261MDRS

      Serial number

      JJ664BBD609206Z

      Bought from

      h.h. gregg, Ohio

      Bought

      Jul 11, 2013, about then

      Where

      Pickerington, Ohio: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 44, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1637. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Mar 29, 2014 · , sent to the company Apr 7, 2014 · , published by CPSC Apr 21, 2014

      The product, in the report: Samsung side by side refrigerator Model RSG257AARS/XAA

      I purchased a new Samsung side by side Refrigerator model RSG257AARS/XAA from sears on Saturday May 11th, 2013. After six months of use, we noticed a strong odor coming from the back of the refrigerator. Around the same time we noticed the smell our family including my daughter recently came down with upper respiratory infection. After further inspection and removing of the back panel I noticed standing water from the defrost cycle. The water was covered in mold and the compressor fan was blowing the mold into the air we breath. We called Samsung to complain, the sent out a technician who poured bleach into the bottom of the refrigerator. This was temporary fix and now the moldy water is back. I believe refrigerators without a removable drip pan are a hazard to the consumers health. All refrigerators should come with a removable defrost pan.

      Model

      RSG257AARS/XAA

      Bought

      May 11, 2013

      Where

      Edmonds, Washington: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1638. Emergency room

      Made Feb 24, 2014 · , sent to the company Mar 5, 2014 · , published by CPSC Mar 20, 2014

      The product, in the report: Samsung Refrigerator

      My then 9 month old daughter was with my husband and I when we were putting groceries away and my daughter was holding herself up on the side of the freezer watching us put things away. When my husband reached over to get some more things to put away the door started to close and my daughters thumb was stuck in one of the sharp wholes they have on the side of the freezer. When we finally got her thumb out it was bleeding horribly. We immediately called 911 and they came and took her in a ambulance to the hospital. When they got to our house they couldn’t believe all the blood was just from her little thumb. They took some xrays at the hospital and luckily there was no broken bones just a severe cut to her thumb. We thought it was going to heal just fine and that would be just a horrible experience but come to find out it was starting to grow very weirdly and we took her to a specialist and found out that she had damage to her matrix which is her nail bed and wouldn’t grow correctly anymore. Luckily after a year of a really weird nail it has gotten to a point that it doesn’t look as bad as it started out but the specialist said this is the best is would look and will have to have to have her nail look this way for the rest of her life. Samsung doesn’t want to change the make of the fridge and thinks it was a freak accident although we found on this site there is another family that had 14 month old that did in deed get his finger amputated from the same design fridge made by Samsung. I dont know how many times they want this to happen before they change the way this fridge works! The freezer automatically closes which makes it that much worse and dangerous!

      Here you can find the other report. http://www.saferproducts.gov/ViewIncident/1286955

      Model

      RF4287HARS

      Serial number

      102043cb100339V

      Bought from

      Sears, Massachusetts

      Bought

      Mar 31, 2012, about then

      Where

      Plymouth, Massachusetts: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 0, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Child

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, Emergency Department Treatment Received

1639. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Mar 13, 2013 · , sent to the company Mar 26, 2013 · , published by CPSC Apr 9, 2013

      The product, in the report: Samsung french door, freezer on bottom refrigerator

      First our ice maker stopped working last summer. Next we heard a grinding sound when the door was closed, which stopped when the door was opened. This noise lasted for a couple of days and then went away, and we did not notice any obvious cooling issues at that time. The noise occurred 2-3 months ago. My children began to get sick with gastrointestinal symptoms on February 21st. It was intermittent and there was no obvious pattern or source. The only one who was spared was my 3 month-old who was not eating anything from the refrigerator. All along the thermostat in the fridge was indicating a correct temperature. Then, on the morning of 3/6 we woke up to all of the milk in our refrigerator completely curdled. A thermometer placed in the fridge read 60 degrees (the digital thermostat still said 36). We called a local repair company who came that day. While at our home the technician found that the back of the fridge (inside, behind the back panel) had iced up accounting for the ice maker not working (the line froze up and no longer delivered water to the ice maker), the grinding noise (the fan was hitting ice forming around it until it became encased in ice and stopped) and the cooling problem. He said he read about the issue and how to fix it in a bulletin from Samsung. He had to order us a seal and a clip (and a new fan since being stuck caused it to burn out). The clip holds the drain line at a distance from the cooling system that prevents it from freezing--the original clip installed by Samsung is not long enough to prevent freezing. We had to thaw the refrigerator overnight and we are still waiting for the repair since the parts had to be ordered. I contacted Samsung on 3/8 (i have a transcript). There was supposed to be a claim filed to help us replace our lost food, which was substantial. I have not heard back about that yet. I am hoping they will also pay for the repair, since any decent company would have initiated a recall for something like this.

      When we can’t trust a refrigerator to cool properly it becomes a food safety issue, and I feel that by their inaction Samsung put my family at risk. I also worry for pregnant women and immune compromised individuals who may experience severe health problems from eating food that has not been chilled properly.

      Model

      RF266ABPN

      Serial number

      073742BQ500865M

      Bought from

      Home Depot

      Bought

      Jul 1, 2008, about then

      Where

      Davis, California: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 3, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Child

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1640. No one hurt

      Made Mar 7, 2013 · , sent to the company Mar 19, 2013 · , published by CPSC Apr 2, 2013

      The product, in the report: Refrigerator

      My Samsung refrigerator has a burning plastic odor. The side of the refrigerator is hot. This is the result of the wiring and on and around the compressor melting. This is the second incident with this product in the last couple of years. I have a service contract that repaired this problem last time and will this time. But the danger of burning and melting electrical wiring and the repeated failure of this problem is obvious. I do not know what my family is being exposed to and breathing. I have a wife with three children ages, 14,11 and 2.

      Model

      RS2630SH

      Serial number

      006242BX900626Z

      Bought from

      BEST BUY

      Bought

      Nov 1, 2004, about then

      Where

      Sherman Oaks, Unspecified: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand SAMSUNG, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1641. No one hurt

      Made Feb 8, 2013 · , sent to the company Feb 22, 2013 · , published by CPSC Mar 11, 2013

      The product, in the report: Samsung refrigerator RSG257AARS/XAA 24 cu side by side counter depth with in-door ice and water.

      We bought a brand new Samsung refrigerator RSG257AARS/XAA in August 2011 as part of a total kitchen remodel. On 12/16/12 we came home after being out for several hours to a flooded kitchen. Water was actively pouring from the front door ice dispenser chute, as if a faucet was on. We immediately turned off the power to the fridge and this stopped the water from pouring out, we also then turned off the water supply. When we opened the freezer door a wave of water escaped. Ultimately the water that pouted out in those few hours did incredible damage to our home. Our insurance spent $12,000 to replace the kitchen floor, the floor in adjacent rooms, the ceiling and 2 walls in the finished basement below the kitchen. This is not including the initial tear out of wet materials and mold abatement work that had to be done. It is now February and we are still working on the repair work. There were no signs of anything wrong with the ice maker or water dispenser previous to this. The unit was no longer under warranty. A refrigerator repairman sited the ice maker and/or water valve to be the faulty parts, and Allstate took the parts to attempt to recover funds from Samsung to cover the repair costs that they paid to us. We thought about trying to make a claim on Samsung but didn’t know how to approach this. We had to pay the $1000 deductible as well as pay for the refrigerator repair (replacement of those parts) although now I am terrified to even have this fridge in my home in fear that something like this could happen again. I read on the Sears website that another customer with this refrigerator had a similar experience.

      Model

      RSG257AARS/XAA

      Serial number

      B11643cz1006

      Bought from

      Best Buy, Oregon

      Bought

      Aug 1, 2011, about then

      Where

      Portland, Oregon: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Unknown

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1642. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Jan 30, 2013 · , sent to the company Feb 14, 2013 · , published by CPSC Mar 1, 2013

      The product, in the report: SAMSUNG French Door Fridge Model RF266ABRS

      Samsung French doors model RF266ABRS started to have ice build up on the condenser coils thus blocking the free movement of the circulation fan bit by bit. The fan started to rattle against the ice for a few days until it was silent once the ice build up stopped the fan to spin. That’s when the cooling in the fridge compartment stops and temperature rises slowly and goes away above the safe level of 40F. We did not notice this until my wife, children and I got food poisoning and diarrhea by eating spoiled food from the fridge. We then noticed a pool of water at the bottom of fridge compartment and ice appearing at the back of the fridge compartment. The freezer compartment is ok.

      Note this is COMMON PROBLEM for SAMSUNG fridges! http://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/samsung_refrigerator.html

      There is even a class action lawsuit for some of the models even though mine is not listed meaning more models are failing http://www.zimmreed.com/Samsung-Refrigerator/20856/

      Samsung is not acknowledging the problem and not helping consumers to resolve this issue.

      Please help.

      Model

      French Door Fridge RF266ABRS

      Serial number

      43EL4GBS7000378

      Bought from

      Lowe’s

      Bought

      Aug 15, 2009

      Where

      Simsbury, Connecticut: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 37, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand SAMSUNG, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1643. Hospital admission

      Made Nov 28, 2012 · , sent to the company Feb 25, 2013 · , published by CPSC Mar 12, 2013

      The product, in the report: Refrigerator

      The caller stated that the refrigerator lower bottom drawer (freezer) was opened and closed by her 5 year old child. During the process of closing the freezer drawer her 14 month old son finger got caught in it and the incident amputated his right index finger tip. The child was taken to the Yale New Haven hospital in Connecticut where he was admitted for surgery overnight, he was released the following day for follow up.

      The refrigerator has a design flaw, there is a support glide (metal charred edge) like a cutter to assist with the mechanism of opening and closing of the drawer. She stated that the freezer does not operate properly because the seal is not holding the door so this causes the problem to re-occur quite easily.

      11/27/11 The manufacturer was contacted and she was referred to their compensation department.

      The caller is concerned that this refrigerator has caused serious injury to her child and the manufacturer has not comply. She feels that this unsafe refrigerator should be taken off the market.

      Model

      RF217ACRS

      Serial number

      108842bz50416210

      Bought from

      Sears, Connecticut

      Bought

      Sep 18, 2010, about then

      Where

      Oakville, Connecticut: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 1, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Child

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, Hospital Admission

1644. No one hurt

      Made Aug 2, 2012 · , sent to the company Aug 16, 2012 · , published by CPSC Aug 30, 2012

      The product, in the report: Samsung Refrigerator RS2630SH

      I purchased a Samsung Refrigerator RS2630SH in approx 2006. We have had nothing but trouble with it. It is heating up to the point that it will burn when you touch it. This is the second time we have to fix this problem. I think these refrigerators should be recalled.

      Model

      RS2630SH

      Bought from

      Best Buy

      Bought

      Jul 1, 2006, about then

      Where

      Bartlett, Tennessee: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 43, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1645. No one hurt

      Made Jun 25, 2012 · , sent to the company Aug 9, 2012 · , published by CPSC Aug 23, 2012

      The product, in the report: Samsung Refrigerator

      I purchased a new refrigerator and within 6months it was not cooling properly, the food spoiled and my 5 lb. dog ultimately died as a result of food poisoning. Besides the heart breaking experience, I also incurred a veterinarian bill of $1,300. I have been requesting assistance with the vet bills, but I have been completely ignored by Best Buy (sold me the appliance) and by Samsung (the manufacture).

      I contacted Best Buy but they claim they are not responsible. I’ve sent 2 customer request to the Samsung online Contact Us link and I was ignored. I have copies of the purchase receipt showing proof that the appliance which is not even a year old. I’ve also a copy of the service order confirming the damage, the repairs and the dates involved. Lastly, I have a copy of the animal clinic’s bills and the diagnosis of bateria in the intestines. If there is anything you can do to help me i would appreciate it. Sincerely, [REDACTED]

      Bought from

      Best Buy

      Bought

      Jul 1, 2011

      Where

      Miami, United States: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Unknown

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1646. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Mar 24, 2012 · , sent to the company Apr 2, 2012 · , published by CPSC Apr 16, 2012

      The product, in the report: Samsung RS2630SH Side by Side Refrigerator

      Samsung RS2630SH Side by Side Refrigerator Purchased: 2005 (Best Buy, Oxnard CA)

      Problem:

      Center divider wall inside of doors and inbetween fridge and freeze gets extremely hot to the point that it can burn your hand. My 7 year old daughter recently touched it and it caused her to cry. I am a fairly tough 41 year old man and if I accidently touch or brush against it, it does hurt. My family (wife, son, daughter, self) have all experienced this on multiple occasions over the years we have had this unit.

      I called Samsung when we first experienced the problem and was told that the problem was “normal”. I had a repair person out to fix something unrelated on the same unit during the first year and mentioned it to him as well. He gave us the same response that this was normal. We did not pursure it any longer.

      This unit should be recalled. A quick search on the internet shows that this is a frequent and commont problem with this unit. Someone is going to get hurt or have their house burned down because of this thing.

      Model

      RS2630SH

      Bought from

      Best Buy

      Bought

      Aug 1, 2005, about then

      Where

      Ventura, California: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 7, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Child

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1647. No one hurt

      Made Dec 15, 2011 · , sent to the company Dec 23, 2011 · , published by CPSC Jan 10, 2012

      The product, in the report: Samsung Refrigerator Model# RS2530BBP black, two doors.

      I have a Samsung refrigerator, model # RS2530BBP, that is now malfunctioning after two years of the purchase date. The center divider between the refrigerator and the freezer has become extremely hot to the touch. I am afraid that this may be a fire hazard to my, and other consumer’s homes. I have taken the steps toward trying to avoid a potential fire in my own home but I feel that I must contact the CPSC in supcenter divider between the refrigerator and the freezer has become extremely hot to the touch.port of unaware consumers that may not detect the problem on their own. As of now, I am only encountering the inability to touch the center divider of the refrigerator due to the extreme heat, but I have read complaints from many consumers who have had the rubber on their doors melt from the heat. I hope this report helps to make homes a little safer. Thank you, [REDACTED]

      Model

      Model# RS2530BBP

      Serial number

      A85342BSA00588 P

      Bought from

      Sears

      Bought

      Nov 29, 2009, about then

      Where

      Lake Jackson, Texas: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1648. No one hurt

      Made Oct 7, 2011 · , sent to the company Oct 17, 2011 · , published by CPSC Oct 31, 2011

      The product, in the report: Samsung Side by Side Refrigerator RS2530BBP, Black, 25 Cubic Ft. 70in. H x 35in W x 28in D.

      Purchased Samsung Side by Side refrigerator from Best Buy January 2009. Model RS2530BBP. Yesterday (10/06/2011) noticed burning-rubber-type smell in the kitchen but couldnt determine where the smell was coming from. Later at night, my wife touches the exterior of the freezer side and it was too hot to touch. Did some research online and noticed other samsung customers had identical problems with their refrigerators. Repairmen I have spoken to have all said that it is unusual for this type of problem to occur when the fridge is less than 3 years old. I have 3 children in the house and this posed a serious burn hazard.

      Model

      RS2530BBP

      Serial number

      023242BQB00818M

      Bought from

      Best Buy, Illinois

      Bought

      Jan 12, 2009

      Where

      Shorewood, Illinois: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      My Spouse

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Incident, No Injury

1649. Hurt, no treatment

      Made Sep 21, 2011 · , sent to the company Sep 29, 2011 · , published by CPSC Oct 14, 2011

      The product, in the report: Samsung Refrigerator side by side Model #RS2630SH & Model Code RS2630SH/XAA

      I have a Samsung refrigerator, model #RS2630SH. I have owned this product for approximately 3 years. Several months ago, the refrigerator started making a noise intermittently. As time went on the noise started lasting longer. I noticed after opening the frezzer door that the magneted strip around the frezzer was holding heat and hot to the touch. Last week my wife informed me she burnt her forearm while getting meat out of the frezzer. I investigated and found the entire area surrounding the frezzer is very hot. I am concerned that this refrigerator may short out and start a fire.

      Model

      RSS2630SH

      Serial number

      006242BXC00631A

      Bought from

      BEST BUY

      Bought

      Jun 1, 2009, about then

      Where

      Kingwood, Texas: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 50, Female

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Unspecified

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

1650. Hurt, no treatment

      Made May 24, 2011 · , sent to the company Jun 19, 2013 · , published by CPSC Jul 3, 2013

      The product, in the report: Refrigerator/freezer (home use). French doors. Cost $2,699 new.

      Refrigerator lost all cooling to both the main and freezer areas. Total loss of all perishable food -- over $200 in out-of-pocket losses, plus several hours of my time (Intel pays me $100/hr).

      And due to poor product design, there is nothing to prevent this from happening repeatedly over the life of the product!

      Make: Samsung Model: RF4287HARS Serial: 102043CB200658 V

      Purchased 3/16/2011 at Best Buy / Tanasbourne, in Hillsboro, Oregon

      THERE IS A SERIOUS DESIGN FLAW IN THIS $2,700 PRODUCT. (I am an engineer, so I know what I’m talking about.)

      On the touch-screen control panel, if you press the two “buttons” in the upper-left corner, it will turn off the fridge, with no warning. The company calls this “demo mode”, for use on the showroom floor.

      Since there’s no warning when it happens, and since this is very easy to do (for example, if you rest your hand there while opening the French doors), there is significant risk of complete loss of all perishable food -- which is exactly what just discovered had happened to us at noon on May 22, 2011, when we discovered that the unit had been off for 24 hours.

      The user’s manual DOES NOT MENTION THIS AT ALL -- not even in the “Troubleshooting” section under “what to do if it is not functioning”. It does not warn you not to do this. It does not even mention “demo mode” anywhere in the user’s manual.

      Furthermore, the people at Samsung tech support misinform customers when we complain, saying that using the child lock will prevent this from happening. Leaving aside the fact that the salesperson in the store never mentioned that, nor did the person who installed it in our house, nor does the user’s manual -- IT IS UNTRUE. I can easily demonstrate that employing the child lock on this model DOES NOT defeat the “demo mode”.

      This product is a health hazard. Many people, given the high cost of losing all food in your fridge and the current tough economic times, will be tempted to simply turn it back on and count on their noses to tell them what food has spoiled. This will inevitably lead to cases of food poisoning, since not all spoiled food smells bad, and food poisoning can cause severe health problems, including death, in people with compromised immune systems.

      AND, Samsung refuses to compensate consumers for food which is lost in this manner. They take no responsibility at all for the situation, even though it is their poor design that is ultimately responsible.

      Have you ever rebooted a PC? Control-Alt-Delete? There’s a reason why that key sequence was chosen, many years ago -- it’s impossible to do accidentally. In fact, it takes two hands.

      In contrast, Samsung has designed the control panel to make it easy for the person setting out a display unit to put it into demo mode (only very few units ever go on the showroom floor -- most are delivered to the consumer’s home in the original factory container).

      Instead, what they SHOULD have done is to make it very, very difficult to do this -- for example, (a) hold these two (non-adjacent) keys for 3 seconds with the door open, then (b) hold these other two (also non-adjacent) keys for 3 seconds with the door closed. Or something like that -- you get the idea. It should be something that NEVER could happen accidentally.

      So, now we’re out over $200, and Samsung refuses to do anything about it.

      And, I’ve had diarrhea for two days, because we ate food from the fridge on the evening of the 21st and the morning of the 22nd, before we discovered that it was no longer refrigerating the food. We didn’t discover it until we left for the gym at noon on the 22nd and went to put ice in the water bottles. Only water came out of the ice maker.

      ==> They should not be allowed to foist this ill-designed product on the unsuspecting consumer. They should be forced to redesign it, and to recall all of the units with this design. And maybe even to pay damages for those of us who have lost food.

      Thanks very much -- I can be reached at [REDACTED] if you want more information.

      Model

      RF4287HARS

      UPC

      unknown

      Serial number

      102043CB200658 V

      Bought from

      Best Buy

      Bought

      Mar 16, 2011

      Where

      Portland, Oregon: Home/Apartment/Condominium

      Who was involved

      Age 58, Male

      The reporter’s relation to them

      Self

      As this report names them

      Brand Samsung, made or sold by SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC. (SEA)

      How badly, in CPSC’s words

      Injury, No First Aid or Medical Attention Received

CPSC’s disclaimer

Sources