How to install and set up your new Samsung refrigerator

You need to narrow down what refrigerator size is right for the space where you plan to put it. No matter which refrigerator you decide to go with, here are some non-negotiables to keep in mind when prepping the location for your new fridge. 

• The fridge needs to be on a flat, hard surface.
• Make sure your space has room for the doors to open fully. If your refrigerator is being installed where there is a wall on one side, and a fridge door could make contact with the wall when opened, make sure to leave at least 2.5 inches of clearance on the side closest to the wall.
• You need a minimum of one inch of clearance at the back of the fridge for proper air circulation, water connections, and electrical connections.
• Allow at least 3/8 inch of clearance on both sides and the top for ease of installation.
• Counter depth and Standard depth are both 35 3/4 inches in width. The difference is how far they stick out from the counter. Refer your models specifications (available in the user manual) to measure ahead of time.

Items you will need:

• Towels
• Pliers
• Large bowl or bucket to empty the water line
• Masking tape

Disconnecting and emptying the fridge

1. Turn off the ice maker and empty the ice from the ice bucket.
2. Remove the food from your old refrigerator and freezer. It's a good idea to have a cooler with some ice handy or even a neighbor who can store some of your items until your new fridge is ready. Even after it arrives, you won't be able to put food in it for a few hours.
3. Pull the old fridge out from the wall enough so you can unplug it. This will give the cooling chemicals time to settle. Be ready with your towels in case any hidden frost or ice that's accumulated begins to melt.
4. Attach the power cord to the back of the fridge. Some fridges have a small hook for gripping the cord and hoses. If you don't have this, use tape to make sure the cord is out of the way when it is time to move it.
5. Turn off the water supply to the fridge. The location of this varies. You may have a valve behind the refrigerator, or under your sink.
6. Once the fridge has had time to thaw out, it's time to disconnect the water line:

Disconnecting the water line

Determine if doors need removed

Depending on the size of the refrigerator you are replacing, you may need to remove its doors to get it out of your house. Assess the situation and if the doors need to be removed, consult the user manual for the fridge to get the most accurate instructions for removing the doors. Another thing to consider depending on the size of your house, and the path to your kitchen, is whether you need to take any doors off their hinges to get your old fridge out or your new fridge in. Measure these ahead of time so you are prepared for delivery.

If you aren't having the fridge taken away by the installer, you have a few options for getting rid of it. If it still works, you can always donate it. Check your local options as many organizations will come pick it up. Your energy company may even be able to come pick it up for you.

Move the refrigerator

Watch our video for how to safely remove your fridge.

There are some things that you may want to have done before your refrigerator is in its final resting spot, like installing a water line. Leveling, however, should be done after the fridge is in its place.

You also want to make sure you get it plugged in before you move it into place, and don't forget to leave at least one inch of space at the back, 3/8 inch at the top, and 3/8 inch on both sides (2.5 inches on the side if next to a wall).

Attach the door handles and install the water filter

Watch our video for how to attach the door handles.

Your refrigerator will be delivered with its handles detached and even if it fits inside without removing the doors, you will need to attach the handles.

Also, your refrigerator comes with its first water filter, but it may not be installed. Samsung water filters come in a few different shapes and sizes and knowing the correct way to install the water filter is as important now as it will be when it comes time to replace it in six months.

Also, if your water line is connected and you have installed your water filter, dispense one gallon of water to clear out any impurities from the water line before you drink or use any water from the fridge. When you turn on the ice maker, dump out the first two batches of ice as well.

Now that the fridge is settled in place, it's time to get it up and running. The steps for setting up a refrigerator can be very different depending on the type of fridge you decided on. However, the first step is the same for every fridge:

1. Level the refrigerator: Save energy and prevent potential cooling issues, noises, or leaks by properly leveling your refrigerator. Our guide and video will show you how to level your fridge and make minor leveling adjustments.
   
2. Adjust and level the refrigerator doors. You will find information on how to do that for your specific model in your user manual
3. Next, install the water line.
4. Set the temperature.
5. Register your fridge to your Samsung account. This lets you stay up to date on things like troubleshooting content, any potential recall notices, and helps you check on your warranty status.

If you have a Family Hub or smart fridge, then you'll also need to:

1. Set up the Family Hub.
2. Connect to SmartThings.

Your refrigerator has many features. To get to know your fridge better, check out our content on the various options.

• Humidity level in Crisper drawers
• Use your Autofill pitcher
• Use sabbath mode
• Screen mirror on Family Hub
• Update the Family Hub
• Play music on Family Hub

Taking proper care of your fridge includes routine maintenance and keeping it organized for optimal airflow.

1. Organize your refrigerator
2. Clean your refrigerator
3. Replace the water filter