KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Message "Demo Mode": dOn and dOff

What Demo Mode means

On KitchenAid over-the-range microwaves like the KMHS120ESS, KMHC319ESS, KMLS311HSS or KHMS155LSS, demo mode is a showroom setting. When it is turned on or off, the display briefly shows "dOn" or "dOff". While demo mode is active, the microwave can show its lights and display without actually heating. If your oven is not heating but looks normal, check this first.

Common causes of Demo Mode

Demo mode was switched on by accident
Someone pressed the demo key sequence while cleaning the panel
The unit came from a showroom with demo mode left on

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Look at the display; if it shows dOn, the oven is in demo mode. 2. Use the same key sequence that turns it on to turn it off, and wait for dOff. 3. Cancel and run a one-minute test with a cup of water. 4. If heating returns, no repair is needed. If you cannot switch it off, call us.

! Why to stop there

It is a setting, not a broken part, so a repair is not needed
We can walk you through it by phone or confirm on a visit
A written price is given before any work

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Microwave codes

Sabbath, Sab, 5Ab, or 5A6KitchenAid Built-In Microwave Display Sabbath, Sab, 5Ab or 5A6: Sabbath Mode is on SEKitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code SE: Keypad or user interface problem Probe or Insert ProbeKitchenAid Combination Microwave Message "Probe" or "Insert Probe": Seat the meat probe in its jack PUSH or PSHKitchenAid Built-In Microwave Message PUSH or PSH: The oven is waiting for Start Registration ErrorKitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Message "Registration Error": Check the home network and try again F6KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code F6: Relay control board FC E2KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code FC E2: Weak network signal at the microwave F6 E3KitchenAid Built-In Microwave Code F6 E3: Appliance manager and converter control

Demo ModeDemo Mode questions

Why does my microwave not heat even though everything lights up?

Demo mode runs the display and fan for showroom use while keeping the heating off. A "dOn" message when the setting changes is the clue.

How do I know demo mode is off?

The display shows "dOff" briefly after you turn it off. Run a cup of water for a minute; it should get warm.

Can I turn demo mode on by touching the pad?

Yes, a particular key sequence activates it. Wiping the panel and pressing pads by accident can do it.

KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Message “Demo Mode”: dOn and dOff

What Demo Mode means

Common causes of Demo Mode

Other Microwave codes

Still unsure about Demo Mode?