Kenmore Dishwasher PF — What It Means & How to Fix It

Also shown as pF, PF (power failure) on some models.

By Callum Griffin · Researched and verified against manufacturer and repair documentation · Reviewed September 2026

PF on a Frigidaire-built Kenmore 587 dishwasher is the power-failure reminder - the cycle was interrupted when electricity dropped.

What this code means

On Frigidaire/Electrolux-built Kenmore 587 dishwashers, PF is the power-failure code: the unit lost power mid-cycle and is pausing until you acknowledge it. Frigidaire's guidance is to press Start/Cancel to clear the reminder and let the dishwasher resume or reset its cycle.

Verify against the model number printed on the tub or door edge: this is the Frigidaire/Electrolux-built Kenmore 587 dishwasher family, and PF is its power-failure flag per Frigidaire's official owner-support documentation.

Most likely causes

CauseHow likelyDIY-fixable?
Power outage or breaker trip mid-cycle Very common Yes - press Start/Cancel to clear.
Loose plug or weak outlet connection Occasional Yes - reseat the plug or test the outlet.

What you can try yourself

  1. Confirm house power is stable and the dishwasher's plug is fully seated, then open the door.
  2. Press Start/Cancel to clear the PF reminder - Frigidaire documents this as the reset for the code.
  3. If water stayed in the tub after the interruption, run a rinse cycle or cancel and drain before starting fresh.
  4. Watch whether PF reappears with no outages - if it loops, check the outlet circuit or call an electrician.

When to call a technician

Typical professional repair cost: $0-$100

Frequently asked questions

Will PF clear on its own?

Usually it waits for you to acknowledge it - pressing Start/Cancel is the documented clear for Frigidaire-built 587 Kenmores.

Can I just finish the interrupted cycle?

Yes - after clearing PF, either restart the cycle or run rinse-only if the dishes sat in standing water for a while.

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.

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