What a Reset Does and When You Need One

A reset clears temporary error codes, restarts the control board, and returns your KitchenAid refrigerator to factory settings without erasing your saved preferences like temperature or ice maker settings. Most resets take less than a minute and fix common problems like a frozen display, unresponsive buttons, or an error code that won't clear.

You should reset your refrigerator if the display is frozen, the ice maker stopped working without obvious cause, the compressor won't turn on, or you see an error code that persists after you've checked the basics (power cord plugged in, doors closing fully, vents not blocked). A reset is also the first troubleshooting step KitchenAid customer service will ask you to try before scheduling a repair visit.

Key Takeaways

  • The most common reset method is to unplug the refrigerator for 5 to 10 minutes, then plug it back in and wait for the compressor to restart.
  • Some KitchenAid models have a dedicated reset button on the control panel or inside the refrigerator compartment that you hold for 3 to 5 seconds.
  • After a reset, the refrigerator will take 30 minutes to an hour to return to your set temperature, and the ice maker may take 24 hours to produce ice again.
  • If an error code reappears after a reset, write down the exact code and contact KitchenAid support with your model number, which is on the wall inside the fridge.
  • A reset does not erase your temperature settings or ice maker preferences on most models, but you should verify your settings after the restart.

The Power-Cycle Reset (Works on All Models)

The simplest reset method works on every KitchenAid refrigerator: turn off the power, wait, and turn it back on. This clears the control board's memory without requiring you to find a hidden button or access a menu.

Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet, or switch off the circuit breaker that controls the outlet if the plug is hard to reach. Wait 5 to 10 minutes. This gives the control board time to fully discharge. Then plug the refrigerator back in or switch the breaker back on. You will hear a click or hum as the compressor restarts—this is normal and usually happens within 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

Do not open the doors during the restart. The refrigerator will beep once or twice as it powers up, and the display may show a brief startup sequence. After 30 minutes to an hour, the interior temperature will return to your set point. If you had an error code on the display, it should be gone.

Finding and Using the Reset Button on Your Model

Many KitchenAid refrigerators have a dedicated reset button that is faster than unplugging. The location varies by model year and style, so check your owner's manual first—the manual will tell you exactly where the button is and how long to hold it.

Common locations are the control panel on the door (usually a small recessed button labeled "Reset" or "Alarm Reset"), inside the refrigerator compartment near the top corner, or on the ice maker itself if your model has an ice maker reset separate from the main unit. If you cannot find the button, look for a small hole on the control panel—this often hides a reset button that requires a straightened paperclip or the tip of a ballpoint pen to press.

Once you locate the button, press and hold it for 3 to 5 seconds until you hear a beep or the display flashes. Release the button and wait for the refrigerator to restart. The compressor should kick in within a minute. If nothing happens after 10 seconds, try the power-cycle method instead—your model may not have a dedicated reset button.

What to Do If Your Model Has a Control Panel Menu

Some newer KitchenAid refrigerators allow you to reset through the touchscreen or button menu on the door. This method is useful if you want to reset the control board without unplugging the unit or if the power-cycle method did not work.

Press the "Menu" or "Settings" button on the control panel. Use the arrow buttons to scroll to "Reset," "Diagnostics," "System Reset," or "Factory Reset"—the exact wording depends on your model. Press "Enter" or the center button to select it. The display may ask you to confirm by pressing a button again or entering a code (often 0 or 1). Once confirmed, the refrigerator will restart and the display will go blank for a few seconds. Wait for the compressor to restart before opening the doors.

If you cannot find a reset option in the menu, your model does not support menu-based reset and you should use the power-cycle or reset button method instead.

After the Reset: What to Expect and What to Check

After a reset, your refrigerator will go through a startup sequence that takes 30 minutes to an hour. During this time, the compressor will run continuously to bring the interior back to temperature. The display may show a startup message or briefly display "0°F" or another default value before returning to your set temperature.

Check that your temperature settings are still correct. On most models, the freezer should be set to 0°F and the refrigerator to 37°F to 40°F. If the settings have reverted to factory defaults, adjust them using the control panel buttons or menu. If you have an ice maker, it will not produce ice for 24 hours after a reset—this is normal and allows the water line to fill and the ice maker to cycle through its first run.

If an error code reappears on the display after the reset is complete, write down the exact code (for example, "E5" or "F2") and note your refrigerator's model number, which is printed on a sticker inside the refrigerator compartment, usually on the back wall or side wall. This information will help KitchenAid support diagnose the problem if you need to contact them.

Common Mistakes That Prevent a Successful Reset

The most common mistake is not waiting long enough after unplugging. If you plug the refrigerator back in after only 30 seconds or a minute, the control board may not have fully discharged and the reset will not work. Always wait at least 5 minutes, and 10 minutes is safer if you have time.

Another mistake is opening the refrigerator doors when ready after plugging it back in. The compressor needs a few minutes to restart without the doors being opened, because opening them lets cold air escape and forces the compressor to work harder during the critical restart phase. Wait at least 5 minutes before opening the doors.

Do not assume the reset failed if the display is blank or shows a startup message for the first 30 seconds. This is normal. The reset has worked if the compressor starts humming and the display eventually returns to show your temperature settings.

When to Reset Versus When to Call for Service

A reset is worth trying if the refrigerator is not cooling, the display is frozen or unresponsive, an error code appeared after a power outage, or the ice maker stopped working. A reset will not fix mechanical problems like a broken compressor, a leaking water line, or a faulty door seal.

If the refrigerator still does not cool after a reset and waiting an hour, if the compressor does not start humming after you plug it back in, or if the same error code reappears within a few days of resetting, contact KitchenAid support or a service technician. Have your model number ready and describe what happened before the problem started—for example, a power outage, a frozen water line, or a beeping noise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a reset erase my saved settings and preferences?

No. A reset clears temporary error codes and restarts the control board, but it does not erase your temperature settings, ice maker preferences, or other saved data on most KitchenAid models. After the reset, verify that your freezer and refrigerator temperatures are still set correctly, because a few older models do revert to factory defaults.

How long does it take for the refrigerator to get cold again after a reset?

The compressor will restart within 1 to 2 minutes of plugging the refrigerator back in. The interior will return to your set temperature in 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how warm it got and how full it is. Do not open the doors during this time if possible.

What should I do if the reset button is stuck or won't press?

If the reset button is recessed and hard to reach, use a straightened paperclip or the tip of a ballpoint pen to press it. If the button feels stuck or broken, do not force it—use the power-cycle method instead. If the button is visibly cracked or damaged, contact KitchenAid support about replacing the control panel.

Can I reset the ice maker separately from the refrigerator?

Some KitchenAid models have a separate reset button on the ice maker itself, usually located on the back or side of the ice maker unit. Check your owner's manual for the location. If there is no separate button, resetting the main refrigerator will also reset the ice maker.

What if the refrigerator still won't cool after I reset it?

If the compressor is not running (you hear no humming sound) after waiting 5 minutes, check that the power cord is fully plugged in and the outlet works by plugging in another appliance. If the compressor runs but the refrigerator is not cooling, the problem is likely a refrigerant leak or a faulty compressor, which requires a service technician. Contact KitchenAid support with your model number.