What does Dacor refrigerator error code Er dH mean?

Er dH means the defrost heater is not working properly, causing frost to build up on the evaporator coils. Test the defrost heater for continuity (should be 15–40 ohms) and check the defrost thermostat. Replace whichever component is faulty. Always clear all frost from the evaporator before reassembling.

Er dH

Dacor Refrigerator Error Code Er dH — Defrost Heater Fault

Advanced Repair 45–75 minutes Tools: Phillips screwdriver, Nut driver (1/4 inch), Multimeter, Hair dryer

What this means

Error code Er dH on Dacor refrigerators indicates the defrost heater system is not functioning properly. During automatic defrost cycles, the defrost heater should melt frost buildup on the evaporator coils. When the defrost thermostat does not detect the expected temperature rise within the defrost time limit, Er dH is triggered. Causes include a burned-out defrost heater, a faulty defrost thermostat (bi-metal), a failed defrost temperature sensor, or a control board issue with the defrost circuit. Ice will progressively build up on the evaporator, reducing cooling performance.

Alternate codes: Er-dH, Error dH, dH error

Step-by-step fix

4 steps

Check for evaporator frost buildup

Open the freezer and remove the back panel to expose the evaporator coils. If they are covered in thick frost or ice, the defrost system has indeed been failing. Manually defrost by unplugging the unit and using a hair dryer, or let it sit open for several hours.

Heavy frost on the evaporator will also reduce airflow to the refrigerator compartment, causing warm fridge temperatures as a secondary symptom.

Test the defrost heater

Locate the defrost heater element along or behind the evaporator coils. Disconnect its wiring and test for continuity — a working heater shows resistance (typically 15–40 ohms). No continuity means the heater element is burned out.

Dacor refrigerators on the Samsung platform typically use a glass tube defrost heater. Handle it carefully during removal as the glass is fragile.

Test the defrost thermostat

The defrost thermostat is clipped to the evaporator. Test it for continuity when cold (should be closed/continuity) and when warm (should be open/no continuity). If it stays open when cold, it is preventing the heater from getting power.

Place the thermostat in a cup of ice water if you need to test its cold state after the evaporator has been defrosted.

Replace the faulty component

Replace whichever component tests faulty — heater, thermostat, or both. Clear all frost from the evaporator before reassembling. Restore power and monitor over 24–48 hours to confirm the defrost system is working.

After defrost system repairs, listen for the defrost heater activating periodically (every 8–12 hours). You may hear a faint clicking or see brief condensation on the back wall of the freezer.

When to call a professional

If both the heater and thermostat test fine, the control board's defrost output or the defrost timer function may be faulty. A Dacor technician can run forced defrost diagnostics to isolate the issue.

Related error codes

Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.

Learn more about our sources