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Error code reference

KitchenAid Dryer Error Code PF

Power failure occurred while the dryer was running.

Power failure occurred while the dryer was running.

First step from the service manual

Press Start to continue the cycle, or press Pause/Cancel to clear the display. Refer to TEST #1.

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 KitchenAid dryer

The PF error code on a KitchenAid dryer stands for Power Failure. It is a notification code rather than a fault code, meaning it does not indicate a failed component. Instead, it records that the dryer lost electrical power while a cycle was actively running. This typically occurs when the dryer's control board detects an interruption in the incoming power supply mid-cycle, such as during a momentary outage, a tripped circuit breaker, or a loose power connection.

The dryer's control board continuously monitors the power supply during operation. When power is restored after an interruption, the board recognizes that the cycle was not completed and displays PF to alert the user. The cycle data is retained in memory, allowing the user to resume the cycle by pressing Start, or to cancel it entirely by pressing Pause/Cancel. If the code appears repeatedly without any known power disruption, the issue may point to an intermittent connection problem at the outlet, the terminal block, or within the power cord itself.

For persistent or unexplained PF codes, TEST #1 in the diagnostic procedure addresses the incoming power supply. Technicians should verify that the dryer is receiving the correct voltage at both legs of the 240-volt supply, check the terminal block for loose or corroded connections, and inspect the power cord for damage. A dryer operating on only one leg of a 240-volt circuit can behave erratically and may trigger this code under certain load conditions.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of PF

  1. 01

    Household power outage

    Wiring / connection

    A momentary or extended loss of power from the utility supply is the most common trigger for the PF code. If neighbors also lost power or lights flickered in the home, this is almost certainly the cause.

  2. 02

    Tripped circuit breaker

    Wiring / connection

    Dryers run on a dedicated 240-volt double-pole breaker. If one or both poles trip during a cycle, the PF code will display. Check the breaker panel for any tripped breakers and reset them if needed.

  3. 03

    Loose or damaged power cord connection

    Wiring / connection

    A power cord that is not fully seated at the wall outlet or has a loose connection at the dryer's terminal block can cause intermittent power interruptions. Inspect the cord and terminal block connections for looseness, burning, or corrosion.

  4. 04

    Faulty wall outlet

    Part replacement

    A worn or failing 240-volt outlet may supply inconsistent power under the load of a running dryer. Testing outlet voltage with a multimeter at both legs of the supply will confirm whether the outlet is delivering correct voltage.

  5. 05

    Failing control board

    Part replacement

    If all power supply components check out correctly and the PF code appears repeatedly, the control board itself may be incorrectly detecting power interruptions. This is a less common cause but should be considered after ruling out all external power issues.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about PF

What does PF mean on a KitchenAid dryer?
PF stands for Power Failure on a KitchenAid dryer. It means the dryer detected that electrical power was interrupted while a drying cycle was in progress. The code is informational and the dryer retains the cycle data so it can be resumed. Press Start to continue the cycle or press Pause/Cancel to clear the display.
Will resetting the dryer clear the PF code?
Yes, pressing Pause/Cancel will clear the PF code from the display. Alternatively, pressing Start will resume the interrupted cycle from where it left off. If the code returns repeatedly without a known power interruption, further diagnosis of the power supply is needed.
Is it safe to keep using my dryer after a PF code?
If the PF code appeared after a single known power event such as an outage or tripped breaker, it is safe to resume using the dryer after restoring power. If the code appears frequently with no clear cause, stop using the dryer and inspect the power cord, outlet, and terminal block connections before running another cycle, as a loose or damaged connection at 240 volts can pose a fire or shock hazard.
How do I fix a PF error code on my KitchenAid dryer?
Start by pressing Start to resume the cycle or Pause/Cancel to clear the code. If the code keeps coming back, check that the circuit breaker has not tripped and that the power cord is firmly plugged into the outlet. Inspect the terminal block inside the dryer for any loose or burned wires. If the outlet voltage is suspect, test it with a multimeter to confirm both legs of the 240-volt supply are present.
How much does it cost to repair a KitchenAid dryer showing a PF code?
In many cases there is no repair cost at all, since PF simply indicates a power interruption that can be cleared by pressing a button. If a faulty wall outlet needs replacement, costs typically range from $75 to $200 including labor. Replacing a damaged power cord generally runs $30 to $100 for parts and labor. A control board replacement, if required, is a more significant repair and can range from $150 to $400 or more depending on parts and service rates.

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