The PF error on your Maytag microwave means the appliance lost power while it was running or while settings were programmed. This is not a malfunction — it is simply a notification that a power interruption occurred, and clearing it takes only a few seconds.

Error code PF
Meaning Power Failure — electrical supply to the microwave was interrupted
Severity Low — no repair usually needed
Time to fix 1–10 minutes
Tools needed None

What the PF error means

PF stands for “Power Failure” and appears on the microwave display whenever electricity to the unit is cut off and then restored, even briefly. It is common after a home power outage, a tripped breaker, or the microwave being unplugged and plugged back in. The clock and any programmed cook settings are lost, so the display flashes PF as a reminder to reset the time.

This code is informational only — it does not indicate a fault with the microwave itself. Similar interruption codes show up on other household appliances; for example, washers display their own fault codes such as the Maytag Washer F1 Error Code when power or control issues occur.

Common causes

  • A home power outage or brownout
  • A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse feeding the kitchen outlet
  • The microwave being unplugged and reconnected
  • Storm-related electrical surges or grid fluctuations
  • Someone switching off a wall switch that controls the outlet
  • Loose plug connection at the wall outlet

How to fix the PF error

  1. Press Clear or Stop — Tap the Clear/Stop/Cancel button on the control panel to remove the PF message from the display.
  2. Reset the clock — Enter the current time using the Clock button, then confirm to set it. The microwave will function normally once the time is reset.
  3. Check the breaker panel — If power was out longer than a moment, confirm the breaker for the kitchen circuit has not tripped, and reset it if needed.
  4. Inspect the outlet and plug — Make sure the microwave’s power cord is fully seated in the wall outlet and the outlet is not loose or damaged.
  5. Reprogram any lost settings — Re-enter any cooking programs, timers, or child lock settings that were cleared by the outage.
  6. Test operation — Run a short cook cycle (like heating a cup of water) to confirm the microwave is working normally after the reset.

FAQ

Do I need to call a repair technician for a PF error?
No. PF simply means power was interrupted. Clearing the display and resetting the clock is all that’s required unless the microwave fails to power on afterward.

Will PF reset my microwave’s cooking programs?
Yes, any saved programs, timers, or the clock will need to be re-entered after a power interruption, since the memory resets when electricity is lost.

Why does my microwave keep showing PF repeatedly?
Repeated PF codes usually point to an unstable power supply, a loose outlet connection, or frequent breaker trips — check the outlet and circuit rather than the microwave itself.