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ErrBase

Whirlpool Dryer PF Error Code: Power Failure During Cycle

Quick Answer

PF on a Whirlpool dryer stands for Power Failure. It appears when power to the dryer was interrupted mid-cycle, such as during a power outage or from a tripped breaker. This is not a fault and requires no repair.

PF on a Whirlpool dryer stands for Power Failure. It appears when power to the dryer was interrupted mid-cycle, such as during a power outage or from a tripped breaker. This is not a fault and requires no repair. Press Start to resume the cycle or press Cancel to clear the code. If PF appears repeatedly without any known power outage, check the dryer's circuit breaker and power cord connection.

WhirlpoolDryerSeverity: low99% DIY Success
Time to Fix
2–15 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
—
Tools Needed
Screwdriver (to check terminal block if needed), Flashlight (to inspect breaker panel)

What Does the PF Code Mean?

Your dryer lost power while running. PF is just a notification. Press Start to resume the interrupted cycle, or press Cancel to clear it. No parts needed.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Power outage or brownout during cycle40%
Dryer circuit breaker tripped mid-cycle24%
Utility power fluctuation22%
Loose or partially unplugged power cord14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • PF displayed on control panel after cycle stops
  • Dryer stopped mid-cycle with wet laundry still inside
  • Display was blank and then PF appeared when power returned
  • Other appliances or lights in house also lost power at same time

Can you reset a Whirlpool dryer to clear the PF code?

Press Start to resume the cycle where it left off, or press and hold Cancel for 3 seconds to clear PF and start fresh. If the dryer does not respond to button presses, unplug it for 60 seconds and plug back in. PF should not return unless power is interrupted again.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Screwdriver (to check terminal block if needed)Flashlight (to inspect breaker panel)

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Press Start to resume the interrupted cycle from where it left

Press Start to resume the interrupted cycle from where it left off, or press Cancel (or hold Start/Pause for 3 seconds) to clear PF and start a new cycle.

2

If PF appeared without any known power outage

3

Inspect the 4-prong or 3-prong dryer power cord at both ends:

4

If PF continues to appear with no explanation (no storm

Frequently Asked Questions

Does PF on a Whirlpool dryer mean something is broken?
No. PF is a notification that the dryer detected a loss of power during a cycle. The dryer itself is functioning correctly. It is equivalent to a clock flashing after a power outage. Press Start to resume or Cancel to dismiss it.
Will the dryer resume the cycle automatically after PF?
No. Whirlpool dryers require you to press Start to resume after PF. This is a safety design; the dryer will not automatically restart an unattended load after a power interruption.
Why does my dryer show PF even though we did not have a power outage?
The most common non-outage causes are a tripped breaker (check the electrical panel), a loose power cord plug at the wall outlet, or a loose terminal connection inside the dryer's back panel. Less commonly, voltage sags on an older circuit can be severe enough to trip the dryer's internal power monitoring.
Is it safe to restart the dryer after PF appears?
Yes. Press Start to resume the cycle. The dryer will complete whatever time remained. The clothes may need a bit more time if they partially cooled during the outage.
My breaker keeps tripping and causing PF. What should I do?
A repeatedly tripping dryer breaker is an electrical issue, not a dryer issue. Do not reset a breaker more than once without investigation. Common causes include an overloaded circuit, a failing breaker, or a short in the dryer's heating element or motor. Call a licensed electrician to diagnose the breaker, and have an appliance technician check the dryer's internal components.

Related Whirlpool Dryer Error Codes

Code: HUBWhirlpool Dryer Error Codes GuideCode: F01Whirlpool Dryer F01 Error Code: Control Board Failure

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Whirlpool shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

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Models Known to Experience PF Errors

This repair applies to most Whirlpool dryers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

WED5000DW, WED8500DC, WED9620HC, WED7300DW, WED4815EW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026