Maytag dryer PF: power failure
PF means power to the dryer was interrupted while a cycle was running. It is a notice, not a fault.
What PF means
- Brand
- Maytag
- Appliance
- Electric dryer, Gas dryer
- Code
- PF
- Documented meaning
- Power failure
- Applies to
- 237 Maytag models on 18 platforms
- Can you keep using it?
- Generally yes
What the dryer is detecting
When power returns after an outage or a brief interruption during a cycle, the control shows PF so you know the cycle did not finish. Pressing Start resumes the cycle; pressing Power or Cancel clears the display.
Causes listed for this condition
In the order the service documentation checks them. Documented causes come from the manufacturer's service documentation for these platforms; possible causes are based on how the system works; unconfirmed marks common assumptions that the documentation does not support.
- Documented A household power outage or brief interruption.
- Possible A breaker that tripped during the cycle.
- Possible A loose plug or worn outlet that briefly loses contact.
Safe checks you can make
- Press Start to resume the cycle, or Power/Cancel to clear the display.
- Check the dryer's breaker in the electrical panel. Electric dryers use a double breaker; if either handle is tripped or sits in the middle position, switch it fully off and then back on.
- Make sure the power cord plug is pushed fully into the wall outlet and is not loose or discolored. A scorched plug or outlet is a reason to stop using the dryer and call.
Further diagnosis requires opening the appliance. Beyond the owner checks, diagnosis involves removing panels, testing components and checking wiring. We describe what a technician investigates, not how to do it yourself.
What a technician checks
- If PF appears repeatedly without real outages, checks the supply circuit, outlet and power cord connection.
Can you keep using it?
Generally safe to keep using. Safe to resume. If PF keeps appearing without a real outage, have the outlet, cord and supply circuit checked, because an intermittent connection can overheat.
Maytag models documented with this code
- MGD3000BG
- MGD3000BW
- MGD3000CG
- MGD3000CW
- MGD3100DW
- MGD3500FW
- MGD4000BW
- MGD4000CW
- MGD4100DW
- MGD4200BG
- MGD4200BW
- MGD4200CG
- MGD4200CW
- MGD4300DC
- MGD4300DG
- MGD4300DW
And 221 more. Use the model lookup to check yours.
Related problems and codes
Other codes documented on the same Maytag platforms:
Repair or replace?
A fault code alone rarely justifies replacing a dryer. Most PF repairs involve a single component once diagnosed. Replacement becomes worth considering when the unit is near the end of its typical 12–14-year life and the diagnosed repair is a major one. See the repair-or-replace guide.
Need PF diagnosed in the Las Vegas area?
We repair Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, JennAir, Amana and other Whirlpool-family appliances in Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin and Boulder City. A model number helps but is never required to book.