GE Microwave PF — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as 888, 8888 on some models.
PF (also shown as 888 or 8888) just announces a power failure — clear it, set the clock, and carry on. No part is broken.
What this code means
GE defines PF as a power-failure notice: after an outage or the very first install, the clock time was lost, so the display flags PF until you clear it and set the time.
PF shows after the power has been off, or right after plugging the oven in for the first time. If the oven otherwise powers on, this is the whole story — no fault is involved.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Power outage or breaker trip cleared the clock | Very common | yes |
| First-time installation or recent unplugging | Common | yes |
| Nothing — it's an information display, not a fault | Common | yes |
What you can try yourself
- Press Cancel or Clear/Clear-Off on the keypad to dismiss the PF notice.
- Set the clock to the current time using the Clock/Timer function.
- Run a short test cook to confirm everything is normal.
- If PF reappears with no power blip, have your outlet and breaker checked — the oven itself isn't at fault.
When to call a technician
- The oven won't power on at all after an outage (check the breaker and outlet first)
- PF returns repeatedly without any power interruption
Typical professional repair cost: $0 — clearing the display and setting the clock is all it takes.
Frequently asked questions
Is PF the same as 888 or 8888?
Yes — GE units show PF, 888, or 8888 for the same power-failure condition depending on the model.
Do I need a technician for PF?
No. This is a notice, not a repair. If it keeps coming back with no outages, that's a house power question, not a microwave one.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related GE codes
- GE Microwave F1 F1 means the thermal sensor circuit reads open — or the oven detected excessive heat. Cool it down and try the 30-second reset.
- GE Microwave F2 F2 is a shorted thermal sensor fault — the sensor circuit reads closed when it shouldn't, so the oven locks out.
- GE Microwave F3 F3 means the touch pad is reading as shorted — often a key pressed over 60 seconds or moisture on the pad.
- GE Microwave F4 F4 means the humidity sensor circuit reads open — the sensor that tracks steam during cooking isn't reporting, so the oven locks out.
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