Frigidaire · Refrigerator

rE

Demo / Retail Mode Active

Severity

Low

The error code rE on your Frigidaire Refrigerator indicates a specific system failure categorized as "Demo / Retail Mode Active". This guide walks you through the most likely causes and the correct repair sequence.

Owner's Summary

This usually isn't a malfunction — it means your fridge is in a special 'Showroom Mode' that stores use to display it without it actually cooling on the sales floor. Extremely common on newly purchased units. No parts needed, just the right button sequence.

Symptoms

Frigidaire refrigerator not cooling, rE or 'Showroom' shown on display

Common Causes

Demo or showroom mode left active from factory or store
Button combination accidentally triggered demo mode
New unit not yet taken out of shipping mode

How to Fix

1 Locate and hold the specific button combination to exit demo mode — typically found in the owner's manual under 'Sabbath Mode' or 'Showroom Mode'
2 If newly purchased, this is almost always leftover factory/store demo mode
3 Unplug and replug, then immediately attempt the exit combination
4 Contact Frigidaire support if the combination is unclear 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

Many Frigidaire refrigerators include a software demo or 'Sabbath' mode that disables compressor cycling while keeping lighting and display functional. rE indicates this mode is currently active, engaged either intentionally for religious observance purposes or accidentally during cleaning.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

No risk if addressed promptly, but the unit will not cool while this mode is active — do not store perishables until resolved.

Technician's Pro Tip

The exit combination varies by model year — commonly involves holding 'Power Freeze' and 'Power Cool' simultaneously for several seconds. Always verify against the specific owner's manual for the model in question.

Related Codes

E1 — Frigidaire Dishwasher

Thermistor Open Circuit

Medium

E2 — Frigidaire Dishwasher

Thermistor Short Circuit

Medium

E4 — Frigidaire Dishwasher

Flood Switch Activated

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code rE mean on a Frigidaire Refrigerator?

Code rE on a Frigidaire Refrigerator indicates "Demo / Retail Mode Active." In practice, the most common trigger is demo or showroom mode left active from factory or store. Severity is rated low, and typical repair costs range from $0 to $0.

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

Many cases of rE can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: locate and hold the specific button combination to exit demo mode — typically found in the owner's manual under 'Sabbath Mode' or 'Showroom Mode'. 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 rE showing?

No risk if addressed promptly, but the unit will not cool while this mode is active — do not store perishables until resolved.

How much does it cost to repair rE on a Frigidaire Refrigerator?

Repair costs for code rE 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