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Error code reference

Kenmore Cooktop Error Code PF

Power Failure indicator

Kenmore codesKenmore cooktop codes

Power Failure indicator — displayed when the cooktop is first plugged in or when power supply to the cooktop has been interrupted.

First step from the service manual

Wait a few seconds; the PF message will disappear from the display automatically.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What PF means on a Kenmore cooktop

The PF code on a Kenmore cooktop stands for Power Failure. It is a status indicator, not a fault code, meaning it does not signal a malfunction within the cooktop's internal components. Instead, it appears automatically on the display whenever the cooktop detects that its power supply has been interrupted and then restored. This happens at initial installation, after a tripped circuit breaker, following a household power outage, or any time the unit is unplugged and reconnected.

The cooktop's control board monitors incoming power continuously. When that power drops and is then restored, the board registers the interruption and displays PF to alert the user that normal operation was temporarily halted. This is a built-in protective notification designed to let the user know the cooktop was not in a controlled off state during the power gap. Any active cooking cycles or timer settings that were running at the time of the interruption will have been lost.

No component is failing when PF appears. The display will clear on its own within a few seconds after power is restored, requiring no button presses or resets from the user. If the PF code appears repeatedly without any obvious power disruption, that pattern would point toward an intermittent supply issue such as a loose outlet connection, an unstable circuit breaker, or voltage fluctuations at the wall receptacle rather than a problem with the cooktop itself.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of PF

  1. 01

    Initial plug-in or installation

    Wiring / connection

    Any time the cooktop is connected to power for the first time or after being unplugged, the control board detects the new power connection and displays PF briefly. No action is needed.

  2. 02

    Household power outage

    Wiring / connection

    A temporary loss of power to the home, even a very brief flicker, will trigger the PF indicator when power returns. Check if other appliances or lights were also affected to confirm this cause.

  3. 03

    Tripped circuit breaker

    Wiring / connection

    If the dedicated circuit breaker for the cooktop tripped and was then reset, PF will appear on power restoration. Inspect the electrical panel for any breakers in the tripped position.

  4. 04

    Loose outlet or wiring connection

    Wiring / connection

    A loose connection at the wall receptacle or at the terminal block behind the cooktop can cause intermittent power interruptions, making PF appear repeatedly even when no outage has occurred. This should be inspected and corrected by a qualified electrician.

  5. 05

    Unstable or fluctuating supply voltage

    Wiring / connection

    Voltage instability on the household circuit can cause the cooktop's control board to register repeated power interruptions, resulting in frequent PF displays. A qualified electrician can test the circuit for voltage irregularities.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about PF

What does PF mean on a Kenmore cooktop?
PF stands for Power Failure and appears on the cooktop's display whenever the power supply to the unit has been interrupted and restored. It is a status notification, not an error indicating a broken component. The message clears automatically within a few seconds, and the cooktop returns to normal standby operation.
How do I fix the PF code on my Kenmore cooktop?
No repair is needed. Simply wait a few seconds after the code appears and it will disappear from the display on its own. If the code keeps appearing repeatedly when no outage or breaker trip has occurred, check the wall outlet connection and the circuit breaker for an intermittent power supply problem.
Do I need to press any buttons to reset the PF code?
No button presses or resets are required. The PF indicator clears itself automatically a few seconds after power is restored to the cooktop. You can then resume using the cooktop as normal, though any cooking settings active before the power interruption will need to be re-entered.
Is it safe to use my Kenmore cooktop after the PF code appears?
Yes, the cooktop is safe to use once the PF message clears from the display. PF does not indicate any internal component failure or safety hazard within the appliance. If the code is accompanied by burning smells, sparking, or the breaker tripping repeatedly, those symptoms should be investigated separately before using the cooktop.
Will the PF code cost me anything to fix?
In most cases there is no cost at all, since PF is a normal power-restoration notification that requires no parts or service. If the code appears repeatedly due to a loose outlet connection or a wiring problem at the circuit, hiring an electrician to inspect and correct the supply wiring could cost anywhere from $75 to $250 or more depending on the scope of the work needed.

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