The PF code on a Frigidaire refrigerator signifies a recent power interruption. To clear it, simply press the Alarm Reset or Mute button on the control panel to return the display to normal temperature readings.
Most of the time, PF is a non-issue. Press a button, move on with your day. But if you're seeing it repeatedly and there's no actual outage in your neighborhood, that's your fridge trying to tell you something's off with the outlet, the cord, or the control board. And yeah, if the power was out more than 4 hours, check your food before you eat anything.
Phillips #2 screwdriver, Multimeter (AC voltage setting)
What Does the PF Code Mean?
OK so here's the deal with PF codes. Nine times out of ten it's just your fridge telling you the power blipped. Could've been a grid hiccup, a tripped breaker, or your kid plugged a space heater into the same circuit. The fix is literally pressing one button. But if it keeps coming back when nothing's obviously wrong with your power, that's a different story and we'll get into that.
Most Likely Causes
Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:
External Power Interruption85%
Loose Plug or Outlet Issues10%
Control Board Failure5%
Symptoms You May Notice
PF flashing on the display where your temperature numbers used to be, usually with an annoying beeping sound going along with it.
Interior lights are on and the compressor seems to be running fine, but the display just says PF instead of showing actual temps.
You hear beeping from the kitchen, walk over, and there's PF staring at you from the control panel.
Code clears fine when you press the button but it's back again within a day or two even though your power seems totally normal.
Ice maker paused or stopped making ice right after the code popped up.
Can you reset a Frigidaire refrigerator to clear the PF code?
Press the Alarm Reset, Mute, or Options button on the control panel once to clear it. No labeled button? Pressing any button on the interface usually works on Frigidaire models. Still showing PF? Unplug the fridge from the wall, wait a full 60 seconds so the control board completely powers down, then plug it back in. The display should come back showing your normal temperature readings.
Tools Required for Diagnosis
Phillips #2 screwdriverMultimeter (AC voltage setting)FlashlightFood thermometerNon-contact voltage tester
Diagnostic Checklist
Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.
ComponentComponent Under Test
Expected Range115–125 VAC
ConditionIf Open (OL) or infinite, replace component.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the refrigerator stop cooling while the PF code is flashing?
Nope, it'll keep right on cooling. The PF code is just an overlay on the display to get your attention. It doesn't shut down the compressor or the fans. Your food is still getting cold, the display just looks weird until you acknowledge it. So don't panic when you see it. Just hit that reset button and then check your food temps to get a sense of how long the power was actually out.
Why does my Frigidaire say PF when the power did not go out?
This one comes up a lot. You didn't notice any outage, but the fridge thinks you did. Usually it's a voltage dip so fast you never even noticed, like when the microwave or garbage disposal kicks on and briefly sags the circuit. Could also be a flaky outlet that's barely holding connection. If it keeps happening, try plugging the fridge into a different outlet on a different circuit, or have an electrician check what's going on with that kitchen circuit. Might also be worth getting a cheap surge protector with voltage regulation.
How do I reset the PF code if there is no Alarm Reset button?
On the simpler Frigidaire models without a lot of button options, try pressing whatever buttons are available, the up and down arrows, the temperature buttons. One of them will usually acknowledge the alert. If nothing works, just unplug the fridge for a full minute and plug it back in. Hard reset, done. I've never had a Frigidaire that wouldn't clear PF after a full unplug.
Does the PF code mean I need a new refrigerator?
Absolutely not. In 15 years I've literally never replaced a refrigerator because of a PF code. It's a notification, not a death sentence. Worst case, after ruling out the outlet and cord, you might need a new main control board, which runs about $80 to $150 depending on your model. But honestly, 95% of PF codes clear with one button press and never come back. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Could a bad door switch cause a PF error?
Nah, door switches don't cause PF codes. Door switches handle the interior light and sometimes signal the cooling system that the door's open, but they're not tied to the power monitoring circuit at all. PF is strictly about the 120V supply coming into the main board. Focus your troubleshooting on the outlet, the cord, the breaker, and the board itself. If you're chasing door switch issues at the same time, that's a separate problem.
How long is food safe after a power outage that triggered PF?
Standard rule is 4 hours in the danger zone above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If the power was out less than 4 hours and you kept the fridge closed the whole time, you're probably fine. A full fridge actually stays cold longer than a half-empty one because of all the thermal mass in there. Meat, dairy, and leftovers are what to check first with a thermometer. Condiments, hard cheeses, butter? Those can usually handle a bit more. When in doubt, throw it out. Food poisoning isn't worth saving a few leftovers.
Models Known to Experience PF Errors
This repair applies to most Frigidaire refrigerators with this error code. Common model numbers include: