What the appliance detected
Detected condition
Cooling is turned off, so the refrigerator and freezer will not cool.
What may contribute
Possible causes
- Cooling may have been turned off intentionally or accidentally.
- Showroom or demo-related controls may vary by model.
Start conservatively
Safe preliminary checks
Work in order and stop whenever a step is not supported by the documentation for your model.
Record the display and model
- Photograph or write down the exact alert, word, or code before clearing it.
- Confirm the full model number and Maytag owner manual because controls vary by refrigerator family.
Use only documented external checks
- Confirm the display says COOLING OFF.
- Use the model-specific owner manual to turn cooling back on; do not guess button combinations.
- Monitor temperatures and food safety after cooling resumes.
Stop before internal work
- If the alert remains after documented checks, request service.
- Do not open sealed-system, compressor, fan, sensor, wiring, or control areas.
Actions not recommended
- Do not perform refrigerant or sealed-system work.
- Do not test live voltage or open internal electrical areas.
- Do not replace compressor, fan, sensor, water-valve, or control parts based only on the display.
When to stop and request service
- Cooling cannot be turned back on using the documented controls.
- The refrigerator does not cool after the setting is corrected.
- Food temperatures are unsafe or uncertain.
Documented source
Official information reviewed
Our summary is based on manufacturer support material and stays within the limits of that material.
Maytag Product Help
Cooling Off Indicator Light - Side by Side Refrigerator
Source reviewed by Appliance Help HQ: August 17, 2026.
Appliance Help HQ is an independent informational site and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Maytag.
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