When error code C-21 flashes on a Samsung oven display, it indicates a technical issue. In most instances, the oven will stop its normal functioning meaning that you won’t be able to prepare your meals.
So, what does the C-21 error code mean? And how do you clear error codes on a Samsung oven?
What does C-21 mean on a Samsung stove?
The error code C-21 means that the oven is overheating. It shows up on the LED screen when the appliance detects that the temperature is higher than the set temperature.
It occurs due to a few reasons, like a failed Samsung oven temperature sensor, malfunctioning thermostat, or a failed cooling compartment. Alternatively, the relay may be stuck on the board, powering the elements. Note that running an overheated oven for a long time is hazardous. It can ignite and cause a fire.
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If you notice that your oven’s temperature is too high, do not open the door. Instead, you should unplug it from the power source and wait for it to cool down.
An overheating oven can also damage different compartments inside it. The parts that can be damaged include the thermostat, thermal insulation, and light bulb. As a result, the repair costs will be higher than the original.
How to fix the C-21 error code on a Samsung oven
Follow these steps to fix the error code C-21 on a Samsung oven:
1. Restart the oven
Like other electrical appliances, the best solution to an overheating oven is to restart it.
To reset a Samsung oven, switch it off by pressing the OFF button and restarting it. If the error code persists, you can reset it five or six times until it clears off.
If the error code persists, unplug it from the power source and let it rest for at least five minutes. Then, connect it to the power and switch it on. If the error code is still displayed, consult a repair technician or Samsung support to diagnose the problem.
2. Faulty temperature sensor
The main cause of the error code C-21 is a defective temperature sensor. This is a metal probe is located inside the oven, usually adjacent to the broil element. The temperature sensor’s role is to check the oven’s internal temperature and send signals to the main control board.
The control board, in turn, adjusts the temperature to the preferred temperature. Therefore, when the temperature sensor is defective, the oven will fail to regulate its temperature and hence cause overheating.
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It may also detect lower temperatures than usual, causing the heating element to stay longer in the oven. This issue can also cause actual overheating and damage to the oven elements.
To solve this, unplug the oven from the power supply and let it cool for a few minutes. Next, use a multimeter to inspect the oven’s temperature sensor. If it is damaged, consult a professional technician to fix it.
3. Damaged cooling fan
The oven has a cooling fan that cools down the oven when it is too hot. A defective cooling fan causes the oven to overheat and displays the error code C-21. You can check whether the fan is properly functioning by running the oven for approximately two minutes.
If the fan does not move, consult a repair technician to fix the problem. Unfortunately, it must be replaced with a new one to resume normal operations. An electric cooling fan can be purchased in any hardware store if you want to fix it yourself.
4. Blocked oven vents
Air vents at the back of the oven regulate air circulation in the electric appliance. The airflow allows the hot air to flow out of the oven and replace it with cool air. When the oven vents are covered with dirt or aluminum foil, it may cause the oven to overheat.
Ensure that the oven is approximately 1.5 meters away from the wall. It would be best if you also cleaned off the dirt and grease in the air vents to ensure proper air circulation.
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5. Defective heating element
Your oven may display the error code C-21 because of a failed heating element. Its function is to generate heat that cooks the meals.
A faulty heating element produces more heat than necessary and this causes overheating. You need to use a multimeter device to diagnose the condition of the heating element. If it is damaged, you should immediately replace it with a new one.
6. Defective thermostat
The function of a thermostat in a Samsung oven is to regulate oven temperatures for normal functioning. However, it may be defective because it is worn out or burnt. If so, it needs to be immediately replaced by a repair technician to clear out the error code.
The bottom line
The Samsung double oven error code C-21 means that the oven is overheating and requires special attention. In addition, there may be a problem with the cooling fan, thermostat, or heating element, which all need immediate replacement.
If you have tried all the above fixing techniques, you should consult a professional technician or Samsung customer support to diagnose and fix the problem.