Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Code PO

PO stands for power outage indicator. It means the refrigerator detected that its power was cut off and the freezer temperature rose to 18°F (-8°C) or higher during that time. The code is a food safety notification, not a sign that the refrigerator has a mechanical problem. Press the MEASURED FILL button to acknowledge and clear it.

Not necessarily. The PO code means the freezer reached 18°F (-8°C) or above, which is warmer than the recommended 0°F (-18°C) storage temperature. Foods with ice crystals still present are generally safe to refreeze, but items that have fully thawed should be evaluated carefully. If food reached above 40°F (4°C) for more than two hours, it may not be safe to consume.

In most cases, the PO code requires no repair at all since it is triggered by an external power interruption rather than a component failure. If an underlying electrical issue like a faulty outlet or wiring problem is causing repeated power loss, repair costs can range from around $50 to $200 or more depending on the work needed. A licensed electrician would handle outlet or wiring repairs, while appliance-side issues like a damaged power cord would typically fall in the lower end of that range.

Press the MEASURED FILL button to clear the PO indicator from the display. Before doing so, check the contents of your freezer for signs of thawing, since the temperature rose significantly during the power interruption. Also verify that the refrigerator is fully plugged in, the circuit breaker is not tripped, and power to the outlet is stable to prevent future occurrences.

Pressing MEASURED FILL clears the indicator and the refrigerator will continue operating normally, since PO is not a fault code tied to any component failure. The reset simply confirms you have seen the power outage alert. If the code reappears frequently without an obvious power outage, investigate the outlet, power cord, and circuit breaker for intermittent power issues.