GE · Refrigerator

Co

Cooling Off / Demo Mode

Severity

Low

Seeing Co on your GE Refrigerator display means the appliance self-diagnostic detected "Cooling Off / Demo Mode". Before calling a technician, work through the steps in this guide — the fix is often simpler than you think.

Owner's Summary

Don't panic — this almost always means your fridge is stuck in 'Showroom Demo Mode,' a setting stores use to display the fridge without actually cooling it (and wasting energy) on the sales floor. This is especially common with new fridges. No parts are needed, just a button combination.

Symptoms

GE refrigerator not cooling at all, Co or 'Cooling Off' shown on display

Common Causes

Demo or showroom mode accidentally activated
Button combination triggered during cleaning
New unit not yet taken out of shipping/demo mode

How to Fix

1 Locate the demo mode toggle, often activated by holding two specific buttons for 3-5 seconds — check your model's manual for the exact combination
2 If newly purchased, this is almost always factory demo mode left active from the store
3 Unplug and replug the unit, then immediately try the demo mode exit combination
4 Contact GE support if the exact button combination cannot be found for your model

Tools You'll Need

No Tools Needed

This fix doesn't require any tools — just a bit of patience or a simple change in habit.

Technical Explanation

GE refrigerators include a software demo mode that disables compressor operation while keeping the display and lighting active for retail display purposes. Co indicates this mode is currently engaged, intentionally or accidentally, via a specific button combination accessible from the control panel.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

No risk if addressed promptly, but the unit will not cool at all while in this mode — do not store food in it until resolved.

Technician's Pro Tip

The exact demo mode exit combination varies significantly by GE model and year — typically holding two buttons like 'Lock' and a temperature button simultaneously for 3-5 seconds. Always check the specific owner's manual for your model number rather than guessing.

Related Codes

E11 — GE Washing Machine

Water Fill Issue

High

E21 — GE Washing Machine

Slow Drain or Drain Fault

High

E31 — GE Washing Machine

Pressure Sensor Fault

Medium

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code Co mean on a GE Refrigerator?

Code Co on a GE Refrigerator indicates "Cooling Off / Demo Mode." In practice, the most common trigger is demo or showroom mode accidentally activated. Severity is rated low, and typical repair costs range from $0 to $0.

Can I fix Co myself, or do I need a technician?

Many cases of Co can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: locate the demo mode toggle, often activated by holding two specific buttons for 3-5 seconds — check your model's manual for the exact combination. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.

Is it safe to keep using my refrigerator with code Co showing?

No risk if addressed promptly, but the unit will not cool at all while in this mode — do not store food in it until resolved.

How much does it cost to repair Co on a GE Refrigerator?

Repair costs for code Co typically range from $0 to $0. Free fix — software setting only. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.

Estimated Repair Cost USD

$0 – $0

Free fix — software setting only