FixByModel
Cooling Off

Whirlpool Cooling Off: Fridge in demo or showroom mode

A "Cooling Off" indicator usually means the refrigerator is in Demo (Showroom) mode. In this retail-display setting the lights and control panel work normally but the compressor is disabled, so the unit powers on yet never gets cold.

Setting · not a fault

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Why you're seeing this

  1. Demo/Showroom mode left on from the store or accidentally enabled
  2. A button combination triggered while cleaning the panel
  3. A power surge that switched cooling off

How to turn it off

1Confirm the symptomCheck that lights and the display work but the compressor never runs and the fridge stays warm, which points to demo mode rather than a failure.
2Turn cooling back onIf your model has a Cooling On/Off button, press and hold it about 3 seconds until the display shows cooling is on.
3Exit demo modeOn models without that button, hold a documented combination such as Lock + Measured Fill, or Freezer Temp + Refrigerator Temp, for about 3 seconds until "Demo"/"Showroom" clears.
4Check your manualBecause the exact key combination varies by model, look up your specific model number in the owner's manual if the display does not change.
5Verify it coolsAfter exiting, confirm the compressor starts and the compartments cool down over the next several hours.

That’s it — Cooling Off isn’t a fault

This is a setting, not a malfunction. Once you follow the steps above the display returns to normal. If it keeps coming back, check that the button combination matches your exact model in the owner’s manual.

Which models this applies to

Whirlpool refrigerators. Whirlpool top-freezer, bottom-freezer, side-by-side and French-door refrigerators (shown as Demo, Showroom or "Shwrm")

FAQ

What does Whirlpool Cooling Off mean?

Fridge in demo or showroom mode. A "Cooling Off" indicator usually means the refrigerator is in Demo (Showroom) mode. In this retail-display setting the lights and control panel work normally but the compressor is disabled, so the unit powers on yet never gets cold.

What causes Whirlpool Cooling Off?

The most likely cause is demo/showroom mode left on from the store or accidentally enabled. Other causes include A button combination triggered while cleaning the panel; A power surge that switched cooling off.

Can I fix Whirlpool Cooling Off myself?

Some checks are DIY, but this code often points to an internal component, so it may need a qualified technician.