Whirlpool Refrigerator CL — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as LO on some models.
CL or LO on a Whirlpool beverage center indicates the internal temperature is too low — check the door is closed, allow time after restocking or a power cut, and reset power for one minute.
What this code means
Whirlpool says this code indicates the internal temperature is too low. It asks whether the door is fully closed or was open for an extended period, whether the unit was just restocked, and whether there was a recent power outage, then gives a one-minute power reset.
This meaning is published for Whirlpool beverage centers. Whirlpool's undercounter refrigerator and wine cellar articles list HI or LO without an explanation.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature still stabilizing after restocking or an outage | Common | Yes — wait |
| Door not fully closed | Common | Yes — no tools |
| Set point very low | Occasional | Yes — adjust setting |
| Control or sensor fault | Occasional | No — technician job |
What you can try yourself
- Make sure the door is fully closed.
- Allow time for the temperature to stabilize if you recently restocked or had a power cut.
- Unplug the unit or turn off its breaker for one minute, then restore power.
- Monitor for a minute and verify it runs; call for service if the code returns.
When to call a technician
- The code persists for more than a day.
- Drinks are freezing.
- The compressor never cycles off.
Typical professional repair cost: Usually free; a thermostat or sensor repair typically costs $120–$250.
Frequently asked questions
What does CL mean on a Whirlpool beverage center?
The internal temperature is too low. Whirlpool lists it as CL or LO.
Why would restocking cause it?
Whirlpool asks whether the unit was re-stocked as one of the checks and says to allow time for the temperature to stabilize.
How do I reset it?
Unplug it or turn off the breaker for one minute, then power it back up.
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 Whirlpool codes
- Whirlpool Refrigerator PO PO on a Whirlpool refrigerator means a power outage occurred and the freezer reached about 18°F or warmer — a food-safety notice, not a component fault. Check contents, clear the code, and only investigate if it keeps returning.
- Whirlpool Refrigerator Cooling Off COOLING OFF means the cooling function has been switched off, so neither the refrigerator nor the freezer will cool — on many models, pressing and holding LOCK and MEASURED FILL together for 3 seconds turns it back on.
- Whirlpool Refrigerator Temperature Alarm The temperature alarm means the refrigerator rose above 48°F (9°C) or the freezer above 15°F (-9°C) for more than an hour — press Alarm to acknowledge it and check why the compartment warmed up.
- Whirlpool Refrigerator Door Ajar The Door Ajar alarm sounds when a refrigerator door or freezer drawer has been open for 2 to 5 minutes — close all doors to reset it, and check for items or leveling problems if it keeps sounding.
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