Whirlpool · Microwave Minor

PF — Power Failure / Clock Reset

PF (or a flashing colon) means there has been a power failure or the clock has been turned off. Not a hardware fault on its own — just a notification.

Keep using it?
Yes — fix when convenient
DIY difficulty
Easy
Verified against
producthelp.whirlpool.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Press Cancel/Off to clear the flashing display.
  2. Re-enter the time using the Clock button if you want it shown.
  3. If PF keeps returning with no obvious power event, your home circuit has a problem — call a licensed electrician.
  4. Persistent PF after an electrician confirms clean power means the control board needs replacement.

Why it happens

Typical signs: PF on the display · Flashing ':' in the time display · Time is wrong after a power blip

  • Power outage or brief utility dropout Most common — any sub-second blip resets the clock.
  • Breaker tripped and reset Same effect as a utility outage.
  • Clock setting turned off in user options Some Whirlpool models let you disable the clock display.

Related repair guides

Microwave Tripping the Breaker — Causes →

More Whirlpool microwave codes

AccuPop Fail AccuPop Fail — Popcorn Sensor Fault Demo Demo Mode — Not Heating Door Door / Open Door Closed — Safety Reminder F1E4 F1E4 — Appliance Manager or Power Relay Fault F1E5 F1E5 — Inverter Internal Fault F2 F2 — Keypad / Control Fault

All Whirlpool codes → All microwave codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the PF code mean on a Whirlpool microwave?

PF (or a flashing colon) means there has been a power failure or the clock has been turned off. Not a hardware fault on its own — just a notification.

What causes the PF code on a Whirlpool microwave?

Power outage or brief utility dropout: Most common — any sub-second blip resets the clock. Breaker tripped and reset: Same effect as a utility outage. Clock setting turned off in user options: Some Whirlpool models let you disable the clock display.

Is it safe to keep using a Whirlpool microwave with a PF error?

Yes — fix when convenient. This is rated a minor-severity fault.

How do I fix PF on a Whirlpool microwave?

Press Cancel/Off to clear the flashing display. Re-enter the time using the Clock button if you want it shown. If PF keeps returning with no obvious power event, your home circuit has a problem — call a licensed electrician.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: producthelp.whirlpool.com.