Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Code SB — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

SB on a Whirlpool refrigerator means Sabbath mode is active — this is not an error or a fault. Sabbath mode is a feature designed for users who observe the Jewish Sabbath or religious holidays. When active, the interior lights, dispenser, and display sounds are disabled so opening the door does not activate electronics. The refrigerator continues to cool normally. Disable Sabbath mode through the control panel to restore normal operation.

Affected Models

Whirlpool WRF535SWHZ
Whirlpool WRS325SDHZ
Whirlpool WRX735SDHZ
Whirlpool WRT518SZFM
Whirlpool WRS571CIHZ

Common Causes

Sabbath mode was intentionally enabled through the control panel settings
A child or household member accidentally activated Sabbath mode while pressing control panel buttons
A control panel button was held down during a cleaning or lock procedure and inadvertently enabled the mode
A power cycle reset the display but Sabbath mode was saved in memory and reactivated
The feature was enabled during initial setup by a retailer or installer

How to Fix It

Locate the control panel on your Whirlpool refrigerator. On most models it is on the outside of the freezer door or inside the refrigerator near the top.

If the display is blank or dim due to Sabbath mode, the buttons are still active — you just cannot see the panel light up.
To exit Sabbath mode on most Whirlpool models, press and hold the Light button and the Door Alarm button simultaneously for 3 seconds until SB disappears from the display.

The exact button combination varies by model. If this does not work, check your owner's manual for the Sabbath mode toggle procedure.
On models with a touchscreen or smart display, go to Settings > Preferences > Sabbath Mode and toggle it off.

If the display is in Sabbath mode, some touchscreen functions may be unresponsive. Refer to the manual for the physical button override.
If you cannot find the right button combination, look up your model number at whirlpool.com and download the owner's manual. Search for 'Sabbath mode' to find the exact instructions for your refrigerator.

The manual PDF is free to download from Whirlpool's support site.
After disabling Sabbath mode, confirm the interior light turns on when you open the door and the display shows temperature readings normally.

If the light does not come back on after disabling SB, the interior light bulb or LED may need separate attention.

When to Call a Professional

SB requires no repair — it is a software setting, not a hardware fault. The refrigerator is functioning completely normally. No technician visit is needed. Simply follow the steps below to disable Sabbath mode through the control panel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my refrigerator still cooling in Sabbath mode?

Yes — Sabbath mode does not affect cooling at all. The compressor, fans, and defrost system all continue to operate normally. Only user-interface features are disabled: the interior light, dispenser, alarm sounds, and display updates. Your food is completely safe while Sabbath mode is active.

What exactly does Sabbath mode disable?

Sabbath mode typically disables: the interior light when the door opens, dispenser ice and water, all alarm sounds, and display changes triggered by door openings. The refrigerator continues to maintain its set temperatures automatically in the background. Some models also freeze the display so temperatures do not update visually while Sabbath mode is on.

How do I prevent Sabbath mode from being accidentally activated?

Most Whirlpool models require a deliberate multi-button press held for several seconds to enable Sabbath mode, making accidental activation rare. If you have children who play with the control panel, consider enabling the control lock (child lock) feature to prevent all button presses. The control lock is a separate feature from Sabbath mode.