KitchenAid Refrigerator Cooling Off — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as COOLING OFF on some models.
COOLING OFF means the refrigerator's cooling system is switched off — it is a setting, not a breakdown.
What this code means
The display shows COOLING OFF because the cooling system was turned off with the control, and the unit is not actively refrigerating until you switch cooling back on.
COOLING OFF appears on KitchenAid French-door refrigerators with the Whirlpool-family electronics platform. The toggle combination (here LOCK + MEASURED FILL held about 3 seconds) can vary by model — your manual is the reference.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling Off was left enabled — it can stay on after a power outage or cleaning | Common | Re-enable cooling |
| LOCK and MEASURED FILL were held together long enough to switch modes | Occasional | Toggle it back |
What you can try yourself
- Hold LOCK and MEASURED FILL together for about 3 seconds to switch cooling back on.
- Wait for the display to leave COOLING OFF mode.
- Give the refrigerator a few hours to reach temperature before restocking with warm food.
- If it keeps returning to COOLING OFF on its own, note how often and mention it when you call for service.
When to call a technician
- The display keeps showing COOLING OFF after the toggle
- Freezer items begin to soften while COOLING OFF is showing
- The unit will not hold temperature once re-enabled
Typical professional repair cost: $0
Frequently asked questions
How did COOLING OFF get turned on?
It is a control setting toggled by holding LOCK and MEASURED FILL together. It is easy to trigger while cleaning the panel or after a power event.
Is COOLING OFF the same as a broken refrigerator?
No — the appliance is fine. It is simply set not to cool. Re-enable it with the toggle and it returns to normal cooling.
How long until the fridge is cold again?
Plan on a few hours to fully recover after re-enabling. Give large items time and avoid opening the doors frequently during the cooldown.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related KitchenAid codes
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