Error PF on Whirlpool WED8620HC: Power failure — drying cycle was interrupted by a loss of electrical power. Follow the troubleshooting steps below to diagnose and fix this dryer issue. The PF code on your Whirlpool dryer indicates that the drying cycle was interrupted by a power failure. This is an informational code, not a fault. Touch and hold the START button to restart the interrupted cycle from where it left off, or press the POWER button to clear the display and start a new cycle. ## What Does PF Mean? PF (Power Failure) is displayed when the dryer detects that it lost power while a cycle was in progress. When power is restored, the dryer shows PF to let you know the cycle did not complete normally. The code does not indicate any damage or malfunction — it is purely informational. On models like the WED5000DW and WED6620HC, the PF code is stored in the control board’s non-volatile memory. Even if the display goes dark when power returns, the PF indication remains accessible. This prevents you from assuming the cycle completed successfully when it did not. If power interruptions are frequent, check the household circuit for overloading or loose connections at the outlet and breaker panel. The dryer itself does not require any repair for a PF code. ## Possible Causes 1. Household power outage interrupting a running cycle
2. Circuit breaker tripping during a cycle due to a momentary overload
3. Accidental disconnection of the dryer power cord during operation
4. Power company voltage fluctuation or brownout interrupting the dryer circuit
5. A loose power cord connection at the outlet causing intermittent power loss ## Troubleshooting Steps | Step | Action | Expected Result |
|------|--------|-----------------|
| 1 | Touch and hold the START button to resume the interrupted cycle from the point where power was lost | Dryer resumes the cycle and PF clears from the display |
| 2 | Alternatively, press POWER or CANCEL to clear the PF code and select a new cycle | Display clears and normal cycle selection is available |
| 3 | Check the load — if clothes are still wet, run a new drying cycle | Clothes dry normally to completion |
| 4 | If PF appears frequently with no obvious power outages, check the dryer outlet connection and circuit breaker for loose connections | Outlet connection is secure and circuit breaker shows no signs of overheating | If the dryer is showing PF repeatedly during normal operation without any household power outage, this may indicate a loose electrical connection that could be a fire hazard. Have an electrician inspect the outlet, wiring, and circuit breaker. ## When to Call a Technician Contact Whirlpool authorized service if: - PF appears repeatedly during normal operation with no household power outage occurring
The dryer randomly shuts off mid-cycle and shows PF when restarted
Circuit breaker for the dryer repeatedly trips during operation Professional repair costs for PF issues typically range from $0 to $150 depending on the specific component and your service region. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Is the PF code on my Whirlpool dryer serious? PF is an informational code that only indicates a power interruption occurred. If your household experienced an outage or you accidentally unplugged the dryer, PF requires no service — just restart or clear the display. Repeated PF codes without a known power event should be investigated.
Will the dryer damage clothes if PF appears mid-cycle? No. PF simply pauses the cycle at whatever point the power was lost. Clothes in the drum remain as they were when power failed. If the load is still damp, restart or run a new cycle to complete drying.
How do I restart a cycle after a PF code? Press and hold START to resume the cycle from where it left off. Some Whirlpool models allow you to select the remaining dry time before restarting. If you prefer to start fresh, press POWER to clear the display and select a new cycle.
Can frequent PF codes damage my dryer over time? Repeated power interruptions can stress the control board’s capacitors and memory circuits over time. While a single power failure causes no lasting damage, installing a surge-protected outlet or using a dedicated circuit for the dryer helps protect the electronics from future voltage events. Reference: Whirlpool official support documentation (whirlpool.com/support) and authorized service guides ### Is it safe to keep using my Whirlpool WED8620HC with error PF? If error PF does not indicate an immediate safety hazard such as a gas leak, electrical short, or water flooding, you can continue limited use while monitoring the appliance. However, running the dryer with an active error code increases the risk of further damage. Address the underlying issue as soon as possible. For high-severity errors, disconnect the appliance and contact a qualified technician. ### How much does it cost to fix error PF on a Whirlpool WED8620HC? Repair costs for error PF on the Whirlpool WED8620HC dryer depend on the root cause. DIY fixes such as cleaning filters, resetting the unit, or reconnecting loose wires cost nothing beyond basic tools. If a component replacement is needed, parts and labor from a certified technician are the main expenses. Contact a Whirlpool-authorized service provider for an accurate estimate based on your specific situation. ### What does error code PF mean on a Whirlpool dryer? Error code PF on Whirlpool dryer models indicates Power failure — drying cycle was interrupted by a loss of electrical power. This error is detected by the appliance’s internal diagnostic system and displayed to alert the user that attention is needed. Refer to the troubleshooting steps above for guidance on resolving this issue.