Kenmore Dryer Error Code PF: Power Failure (But Not Really)

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The Logic Verdict

It’s a ghost error. The “PF” code stands for Power Failure, which is ironic because the code itself is lit up, proving there is power.

In my experience, this error rarely means your house lost power. It usually means the main control board experienced a momentary voltage drop or a signal interruption. This is almost always caused by a loose wire or oxidized connection on the back of the dryer. Before you buy a new control board, you just need to “reset” the electrical connections.

What It Means

The PF code indicates that the dryer’s control board lost power during a cycle. If your home didn’t actually lose power, the interruption happened inside the machine.

Common Causes

1. Loose Wiring: The most common cause. Vibrations from the dryer loosen the plastic plugs on the control board.
2. Oxidized Contacts: A thin film of corrosion builds up on the metal pins, momentarily breaking the circuit.
3. Faulty Thermal Fuse: Occasionally, a failing thermal fuse can cause intermittent power cuts.
4. Bad Control Board: If checking connections doesn’t work, the board itself may be failing (but rule out the free fixes first).

Step-by-Step Fix

1. The “Unplug-Replug” Method (Try This First)

This fixes about 80% of PF errors.

1. Unplug the dryer.
2. Remove the top panel (usually screws on the back).
3. Locate the Control Board. It’s the main circuit board on the left side or behind the console.
4. Reseat every plug. Unplug each connector, inspect it, and plug it back in firmly. This scrapes off oxidation.
5. Test. Plug the dryer back in and run a cycle.

2. Check the Thermal Fuse & Thermistor

If the error persists, you need to check the safety components. You’ll need a multimeter for this.

1. Access the Blower Housing. Remove the bottom front panel (toe kick).
2. Locate the Fuse. It’s a small white strip on the blower housing.
3. Test for Continuity. Set your multimeter to continuity mode (the “beep” setting). Touch the probes to the fuse terminals.
   • Beep = Good.
   • No Beep = Bad (Replace it).
4. Check the Thermistor. It’s next to the fuse. It should read about 10k Ohms resistance at room temperature.

Parts You Might Need

You likely don’t need a new board. You need tools to diagnose the connection.

1. To Test the Fuse:

2. To Clean the Plugs: