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Whirlpool refrigerator Cooling Off code: cooling turned off

Urgency
Medium
Who can fix it
Easy DIY
Time
About 5 min
Repair cost
No repair needed

The display shows Cooling Off when cooling has been switched off, so the refrigerator and freezer will not get cold. It is usually turned off by accident during cleaning or left on after demo mode.

Likely causes

Listed from most to least common.

  1. Button combination pressed by accident while cleaning
  2. Refrigerator left in demo or showroom mode
  3. Some models need cooling turned back on after a power outage or surge

How to fix the Cooling Off code

  1. Step 1: Turn cooling back on

    On many models, press and hold LOCK and MEASURED FILL together for 3 seconds. The Cooling Off message should go away.

  2. Step 2: Check your owner's manual

    The button combination varies by model. Look up the cooling on/off steps for your model number if the first method does not work.

  3. Step 3: Check for demo mode

    If the lights work but the display says Showroom or Demo, the refrigerator is in demo mode. Turn demo mode off using the steps for your model.

  4. Step 4: Give it time

    Once cooling is back on, allow up to 24 hours for the refrigerator to reach set temperatures.

When to call a technician

If Cooling Off will not clear with your model's button combination, or the refrigerator stays warm with cooling on, schedule service.

Models this applies to

  • French door bottom-freezer refrigerators (WRF series)
  • Side-by-side refrigerators (WRS series)
  • Bottom-freezer refrigerators (WRB series)

Codes can differ slightly between models. Your owner's manual is the final word and is available from Whirlpool support.

Common questions

›Why did my Whirlpool fridge turn its cooling off?

Most often the buttons were pressed together while wiping the panel. Some models also need cooling turned back on after a power outage or surge.

›Do the lights still work when cooling is off?

Yes. The display and interior lights keep working, which is why many people do not notice until food starts to warm.

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