SP
Whirlpool Refrigerator
Severity:What Does This Error Mean?
The SP error on a Whirlpool refrigerator indicates that the refrigerator has been placed in Showroom or Sabbath mode — or on some models it points to a compressor speed or power relay fault. In Showroom mode, the compressor is disabled intentionally so the refrigerator can be displayed without cooling. If SP appeared unexpectedly and the refrigerator is warm, the mode was activated by accident or a control fault has occurred.
Affected Models
- WRF535SWHZ
- WRF767SDHZ
- WRS325SDHZ
- WRB322DMBM
- Most Whirlpool French door and side-by-side models with advanced control boards
Common Causes
- Showroom or demo mode was accidentally activated through the control panel
- Sabbath mode was activated, which limits certain refrigerator functions
- A control board fault is displaying SP incorrectly as an error
- Wiring fault in the compressor control circuit causing the board to flag a speed or power issue
- Software glitch following a power outage that left the unit in a demo state
How to Fix It
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Check whether Showroom or Demo mode is active. The display may show SP or 'Demo' and the refrigerator will not cool.
Demo mode is sometimes activated accidentally by holding certain buttons during cleaning or moving the refrigerator.
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To exit Demo mode on most Whirlpool models, press and hold the freezer temperature UP and refrigerator temperature DOWN buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds.
On some models the combination is different. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact button sequence.
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To exit Sabbath mode, check your owner's manual for the deactivation sequence. It often involves holding a specific button for several seconds.
Sabbath mode disables lights, alarms, and some display functions but keeps the refrigerator cooling.
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If the SP error persists after exiting any special mode, perform a full power reset by unplugging the unit for 5 minutes.
A power reset clears any residual mode flags that may have been stored in the control board memory.
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If SP returns after a power reset and no mode is active, the control board may have a fault. Contact Whirlpool support or a technician.
Provide the full model number and describe the full error to get accurate service guidance.
When to Call a Professional
Deactivating Showroom or Sabbath mode costs nothing — it is a button sequence. If the refrigerator is not in a special mode and SP persists, a control board fault is likely. Control board replacement costs $100 to $300. A technician can use service diagnostic mode to confirm whether SP is a mode flag or a genuine fault.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Whirlpool refrigerator not cooling and showing SP?
SP most commonly means the refrigerator is in Demo or Showroom mode. In this mode, the compressor is intentionally off so the unit can be displayed in a store. The fix is to exit demo mode using the correct button combination for your model. Check your owner's manual for the exact steps.
How do I know if Sabbath mode is on?
In Sabbath mode, the interior light and control panel displays are usually disabled. The refrigerator still cools but does not respond to button presses normally. You may see SP or a similar indicator if your model displays the active mode. Checking the owner's manual for your model will confirm the exact Sabbath mode indicators.
Can SP appear after a power outage?
Yes. In rare cases, a power outage or surge can cause the control board to boot into an unintended mode. A full power reset — unplugging for 5 minutes — is the first step. If SP appeared after a storm or outage and a reset clears it, no further action is needed.