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Error code · Microwave

Whirlpool Over-the-range Microwave Showing PF: Power Failure Indicator

A flashing colon or the letters PF on a Whirlpool over-the-range microwave, such as WMH31017HS, WMH32519HZ or WMH53521HZ, means there has been a power failure or the clock time has been turned off. When power first…

Low risk · DIY check OK
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Code
PF
Appliance
Microwave
Brand
Whirlpool
Warranty
30-day workmanship

What PF means

A flashing colon or the letters PF on a Whirlpool over-the-range microwave, such as WMH31017HS, WMH32519HZ or WMH53521HZ, means there has been a power failure or the clock time has been turned off. When power first reaches the microwave, a colon blinks in the display. Nothing is wrong with the oven; it is simply waiting for you to clear the indicator and set the clock again. If a value you enter is invalid, the oven sounds tones and asks again.

Common causes of PF

  • Power outage or brief interruption
  • Clock time turned off
  • Breaker switched off and on
✓ One safe check you can try

1. Touch Cancel or Cancel/Off, depending on your model, to stop the blinking. 2. Set the clock to the current time. 3. If an entry is refused, listen for the invalid entry tones and try the value again. 4. In normal use the display shows the time of day or a timer countdown.

! Why to stop there
  • PF is not a repair item, so we only need to look if it comes back without a power interruption.
  • If PF keeps returning, we check the supply to the microwave and the control.
  • We give a written price first and say plainly whether any repair is needed.
Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.
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Other Microwave codes

FC E8Whirlpool OTR Microwave Registration Code FC E8: Entry Mistake FCE8Whirlpool Over-the-range Microwave Registration, FCE8: Wrong Model Selected Feature Not Available or Fault DetectedWhirlpool Built-in Microwave Message "Feature Not Available": Retry or Cut Power LOCWhirlpool Microwave LOC on the Display: Control Lock Is On Press Cancel to ResetWhirlpool Built-in Microwave Message "Press Cancel to Reset": Error Cleared by Cancel Probe or Insert ProbeWhirlpool Built-in Microwave Asking for "Insert Probe": Seat the Meat Probe F8 E4Whirlpool Microwave Drawer Error Code F8 E4: Exhaust Air Temperature Sensor PUSH or PSHWhirlpool Built-in Microwave Shows PUSH or PSH: Press Start
PFPF questions
What does PF mean on my microwave?

Power failed at some point, or the clock display was turned off. The oven shows PF or a flashing colon until you press Cancel and set the time.

Do I need a technician for PF?

Normally no. Press Cancel, set the clock and carry on. If the display keeps going back to PF with no outage, call us. A unit that shows PF repeatedly with steady power at home is worth a look, and that is when we visit.

Why does the microwave show PF after a storm?

Even a brief interruption resets the clock display. That is normal. It is the microwave's way of asking you to set the time again. Short flickers at home reset it too, so you may see it even when the lights barely dimmed.

Book a visit

Still unsure about PF?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 589-6107