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Error code reference

GE Refrigerator Error Code bP

RFID bypass plug is installed in place of a water filter.

GE codesGE refrigerator codes

RFID bypass plug is installed in place of a water filter.

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What bP means on a GE refrigerator

The bP code on a GE refrigerator indicates that an RFID bypass plug is currently installed in the water filter housing in place of an actual water filter cartridge. GE refrigerators equipped with RFID-based filter tracking use a radio frequency identification system to detect and communicate with compatible water filter cartridges. When a bypass plug is inserted instead of a filter, the system reads the RFID signal from the plug and displays bP to inform the user that unfiltered water is being dispensed through the refrigerator's water and ice systems.

The bypass plug is a legitimate GE accessory designed for situations where a water filter is temporarily unavailable or where the refrigerator is connected to an external whole-house filtration system. It allows the water supply line to remain connected and functional while bypassing the internal filter stage entirely. The plug physically fits into the filter housing and seals the water path, but it contains no filtration media. The RFID chip in the plug communicates its bypass status to the control board, which then triggers the bP display.

This code is not an error in the traditional sense. It is an informational status indicator rather than a fault condition. The refrigerator will continue to dispense water and produce ice normally while the bypass plug is installed. However, without an active filter cartridge, water is not being filtered for chlorine, sediment, or other contaminants at the appliance level. Technicians should confirm whether the customer intends to use the bypass plug long-term or if it was installed temporarily and a replacement filter is needed.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of bP

  1. 01

    Intentional bypass plug installation

    Wiring / connection

    The most common reason for this code is that a bypass plug was deliberately installed, either temporarily while waiting for a replacement filter or because the home uses an external filtration system. Confirm with the customer whether this was intentional.

  2. 02

    Replacement filter not yet installed after old filter removal

    Part replacement

    A previous filter may have been removed for replacement and a bypass plug inserted in the interim. The bP code will remain displayed until a compatible RFID filter cartridge is installed in the housing.

  3. 03

    Non-RFID or incompatible filter installed with bypass plug left in

    Part replacement

    In some cases, a bypass plug may have been installed when a non-compatible filter was tried and failed to seat properly. Inspect the filter housing to confirm what is currently installed.

  4. 04

    Customer unaware of filter replacement schedule

    Part replacement

    Some customers install a bypass plug after a filter expires and are unaware that a new compatible filter cartridge is the correct solution. Review the filter replacement interval and recommend an appropriate replacement cartridge.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about bP

What does bP mean on a GE refrigerator?
The bP code on a GE refrigerator means that an RFID bypass plug is installed in the water filter housing instead of an actual water filter cartridge. The refrigerator detects the bypass plug through its RFID system and displays bP to indicate that water is flowing through the appliance unfiltered. The refrigerator will continue to operate normally, but no filtration is occurring at the appliance level.
How do I fix the bP code on my GE refrigerator?
To clear the bP code, remove the bypass plug from the water filter housing and install a compatible GE RFID water filter cartridge. Once a valid filter is properly seated and locked into place, the control board will detect the new filter's RFID signal and the bP indicator should clear. If you intentionally want to use the bypass plug, the bP display is simply an informational status and does not require any corrective action.
Is the bP code on a GE refrigerator a safety issue?
The bP code itself is not a safety hazard and does not indicate a malfunction. However, while the bypass plug is installed, your water and ice are not being filtered by the refrigerator's internal filtration system. If your home water supply relies on the refrigerator filter for contaminant reduction, you should install a new filter cartridge to restore filtered water dispensing.
Will resetting my GE refrigerator clear the bP code?
Resetting the refrigerator will not permanently clear the bP code as long as the bypass plug remains installed. The RFID system continuously reads what is in the filter housing, so the code will return after any reset if the bypass plug is still present. The only way to resolve the bP display is to replace the bypass plug with a compatible water filter cartridge.
How much does it cost to fix the bP code on a GE refrigerator?
The cost to resolve the bP code typically involves purchasing a replacement water filter cartridge, which generally ranges from around 30 to 60 dollars depending on the specific model and where it is purchased. No tools or service labor are required in most cases, as filter replacement is a straightforward DIY task. If a bypass plug was installed intentionally and you choose to leave it in place, there is no cost involved at all.

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