Sometimes, error codes can be a pain in the neck especially if they keep reappearing persistently. Regardless of that, it’s still a way to detect specific issues that might be troubling your dryer.
However, if the pf code appears on your dryer, it simply means that the appliance has experienced a power obstruction.
What most experts usually advise if you find yourself in situations like this is to reset the dryer by unplugging and plugging it back in.
If you get it right, this should potentially clear the error code. Fortunately in other cases, there are other easy ways to fix the issue and this article provides an extensive troubleshooting guide on how to do that.
You’re willing to find out exactly how? Keep reading this article!
What Does The Code Pf Mean On My Whirlpool Dryer?
The PF Code stands for “Power Failure” which is an indication that the dryer cycle has been interrupted due to a power outage.
You’ll notice that your dryer won’t operate if the error code is displayed, unless power is restored to the appliance and the code gets cleared.
Apart from power failure, whirlpool dryer pf codes usually happen due to various reasons such as loose electrical wiring or an issue occurring with the main control board.
We’ll be going into more details regarding the reasons for this error code in the following section. Then, the fixes would be next.
Causes Of Pf Code On Whirlpool Dryer?
When this code is displayed on your whirlpool dryer, it’s usually due to a variety of reasons which include.
- Power failure
- Tripped Circuit breaker
- Defective electrical connections or wirings
- Faulty control board
- Simple electronic glitch
#1. Power Failure
If power goes out while your whirlpool dryer is operating, the system displays the PF code to indicate that the cycle has been interrupted.
This is the most common reason for this error code.
Note that it can also be as a result of the dryer detecting an unexpected amount of power supply or incorrect voltage amount.
How to fix?
The way to fix a power outage issue is to do a factory reset on the unit by simply restarting it.
To do this, you need to unplug the washer from its power source. Follow the procedures below.
- Unplug the dryer from the socket outlet.
- While the appliance is unplugged, press and hold the “Start” button for 5 seconds.
- Alternatively, you can press “Power” in order to clear the display.
- Plug the unit back in, restart and then try to perform a dry cycle.
The error code should possibly be cleared after doing this. If not, maybe you unintentionally pressed some keys before the 10 second delay interval on power up.
This is a potential reason why the code still appears. You can try the whole procedure again and this time, ensure you avoid any errors.
Related: Lg Dryer D80 Error Code But No Blockage (2023 Fixes!)
#2. Tripped Circuit breaker
The circuit breaker can get tripped either through a short circuit or an overloaded circuit.
It’s basically when an excessive amount of energy flows into a circuit breaker, important components in the breaker cause it to shut off.
When this happens while the dryer is operating, it can result in power failure which triggers that PF code.
How to fix?
What you need to do is check the circuit breaker and reset it for further troubleshooting.
Simply turn off the circuit breaker specifically for the dryer for 60 seconds.
The next step is to reset the circuit breaker, you should follow the procedures below to do that.
- Turn the lights off and disconnect the appliances linked to the circuit breaker.
- Locate the circuit breaker box which is usually found in the apartment’s hallway or basement.
- To know if the breaker is tripped, look at the toggle switch if it’s in the middle position (this means it’s tripped).
- Lastly, reset the circuit breaker by turning the handle to off position and back to the on position.
This process should clear the whirlpool dryer pf code.
If it doesn’t and the circuit breaker continues to trip, try other fixes before reaching out to a professional electrician.
#3. Defective Electrical Connections
Loose or frayed electrical wiring such as the power cord is another example of what can cause the error code to get triggered.
This is a point where you need to inspect to see if there are signs of wear or damage on the power cord.
Leaving any of these behind can affect the effectiveness of the dryer and potentially lead to complete damage.
How to fix?
To fix, you need to check the wirings of the dryer and make sure that all connections are tight and very secure.
Try looking for loose or frayed connections that could have resulted in a power interruption.
- Ensure that the power cord is plugged in properly to the wall socket
- Try tightening the prongs to the wall sock and make sure that there are no visible signs of damage, breaks or wears.
- Lasty, If you realize that the power cord is damaged, then you should find a replacement.
Related: Maytag Washer UL Code (How To Fix!)
#4. Issue With The Main Control Board
When the main control board is faulty, it’s usually due to aging or poor maintenance of the component.
The moment the control board begins to malfunction, it can result in a lot of defects on the dryer – This is literally because it’s responsible for controlling so many important functions of the unit.
It can also cause a simple electronic glitch which is another reason for whirlpool cabrio dryer pf code being displayed.
How to fix?
In cases like this, experts usually recommend replacing the main control board as it’s really complicated to fix.
An important information is to ensure that you get the correct control board for your whirlpool dryer model.
Preventive Measures For Pf Code on Whirlpool Dryer
There are some preventive measures you can take in order to avoid reoccurrence of the error code. These includes:
- Regular maintenance of the unit
- Ensuring that the dryer is properly installed.
- Avoid power surges by using a surge protector while using the dryer.
- Regularly check and reset the circuit breaker if it’s tripped.
When to Call a Professional?
In some certain situations, fixing the PF code on your whirlpool dryer might require extra experience and professionalism.
You should reach out to a professional if your dryer was recently installed within 3 months.
It’s possible that there was a slight error during the installation which is the reason for the error code display.
Calling a professional is the best idea in this case so that you don’t void the warranty and worsen the situation.
Some situations when calling a professional is recommended are during control board problems or electrical issues.
Related: E01 F03 Whirlpool Washer Error Code (Easy Fixes!)
Conclusion
Note that the whirlpool dryer PF code is not specific to a particular whirlpool dryer as it can occur in other brands also.
To recap: remember that the error code is as a result of a power interruption or outage. The first troubleshooting procedure you should do is resetting by unplugging and plugging the dryer back in.
However, if the code persists, we recommend calling the attention of a professional.
