The PF error on your Frigidaire means the dishwasher detected a power interruption during a wash cycle. Clearing the code and restarting the cycle usually solves it, but repeated PF errors point to a household power problem worth checking.

Error code PF
Meaning Power failure — the dishwasher lost power mid-cycle and needs the cycle restarted
Severity Low — usually just needs a reset, but check for wiring issues if it repeats
Time to fix 5–20 minutes
Tools needed None (multimeter only if checking outlet wiring)

What the PF error means

PF stands for “Power Failure.” Your Frigidaire dishwasher’s control board records this code whenever electricity to the unit is cut off and then restored while a wash cycle is running. It’s not a fault with the dishwasher itself — it’s the appliance reporting that something interrupted its power supply, whether that’s a blip in your home’s electrical system, a tripped breaker, or the dishwasher being unplugged.

Once power returns, the display shows PF until you clear it, and the cycle that was running will need to be restarted from the beginning since the wash won’t automatically resume where it left off.

Common causes

  • A brief power outage or voltage dip in the home
  • A tripped circuit breaker on the dishwasher’s dedicated circuit
  • The dishwasher was accidentally unplugged or the outlet lost connection
  • A loose wire connection at the outlet, junction box, or terminal block behind the dishwasher
  • Someone switched off the wall switch that controls the dishwasher outlet
  • An overloaded circuit shared with other high-draw appliances

How to fix the PF error

  1. Clear the code: Press Cancel/Drain or hold Start for 3 seconds to clear the PF display, then close the door.
  2. Restart the cycle: Select your wash cycle again and press Start. Most units run normally once restarted.
  3. Check the breaker panel: Look for a tripped breaker labeled for the kitchen or dishwasher circuit and reset it if needed.
  4. Confirm the plug and switch: Make sure the dishwasher is fully plugged in and any wall switch controlling its power is turned on.
  5. Inspect for loose wiring: If PF keeps happening with no obvious outage, have an electrician check the outlet and wiring behind the unit for loose connections.
  6. Reset the whole appliance: Turn off the breaker for 5 minutes, then switch it back on to fully reset the control board.

FAQ

Does PF mean my dishwasher is broken?
No. PF simply logs that power was interrupted and restored — it’s informational, not a fault code, and clearing it typically fixes the issue.

Will my dishes still get washed after a PF error?
Not from where it stopped. You’ll need to restart the cycle from the beginning, since the dishwasher doesn’t resume mid-cycle after power loss.

What if PF keeps appearing even without a storm or outage?
That suggests a wiring problem, loose outlet connection, or a failing breaker. It’s worth having an electrician check the circuit rather than repeatedly resetting the dishwasher.