Whirlpool Washer PF — What It Means & How to Fix It
PF means a power failure interrupted the wash cycle — touch and hold Start to resume, or press Power (or Cancel on some models) to clear the display and start again.
What this code means
Whirlpool defines PF as Power Failure: the cycle was interrupted when the washer lost power. On top-load washers you touch and hold Start to restart the cycle or press Power to clear the display. On front-load washers some models let you press Start to complete the cycle, while others need Cancel and a fresh start.
Used on both Whirlpool top-load and front-load washers; which button resumes the cycle varies by model.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Household power cut or flicker during the cycle | Very common | Yes — no tools |
| Tripped breaker or GFCI outlet | Common | Yes — reset breaker |
| Loose plug, or washer on an extension cord | Occasional | Yes — plug into wall outlet |
What you can try yourself
- Touch and hold Start to resume the cycle.
- If that does nothing, press Power or Cancel to clear the display and start the cycle from the beginning.
- If PF returns without an obvious outage, check the breaker and any GFCI reset button on the laundry circuit.
- Make sure the plug is fully seated in a wall outlet, not an extension cord or power strip.
When to call a technician
- PF keeps appearing when the rest of the house has steady power.
- The breaker trips whenever the washer runs.
- The outlet or plug is warm, discoloured or loose — call an electrician.
Typical professional repair cost: Nothing for a one-off outage. An electrician's visit for a faulty outlet or circuit usually costs $100–$250.
Frequently asked questions
What does PF mean on a Whirlpool washer?
Power Failure — the wash cycle was interrupted by a loss of power.
How do I resume a cycle after PF?
On top-load washers, touch and hold Start. On front-load washers some models continue with Start and others need Cancel and a restart.
Why do I get PF when the power never went out?
Whirlpool only says the washer experienced a power failure. A brief flicker, a tripped breaker or a loose plug can cause that without the lights going out.
Sources checked
- Whirlpool Product Help: PF - Error Code (top load washer)
- Whirlpool Product Help: PF - Front Load Washer
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 Whirlpool codes
- Whirlpool Washer F9 E1 The washer took too long to drain — check the drain hose setup and the pump filter; the 'hose pushed too far down the standpipe' mistake causes a surprising share of these.
- Whirlpool Washer F5 E2 The washer tried to lock its door and couldn't — usually an obstruction or grime in the latch, sometimes a worn lock assembly that needs replacing.
- Whirlpool Washer SD Too much foam — the washer paused its cycle to break down excess suds, which almost always traces back to detergent amount or type rather than a fault.
- Whirlpool Washer F8 E1 Your Whirlpool washer isn't detecting water coming in — usually a supply problem (taps, hoses, screens) rather than anything wrong inside the machine.
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