Whirlpool Refrigerator Error PO: Power Outage Alert

The Logic Verdict

My Take: PO is Whirlpool’s way of saying “Power Outage detected.” The video walks through the causes—brownouts, overheated wiring, or simply losing power—and how to clear the alert. If the code reappears immediately, suspect unstable voltage or loose wiring, not the control board.

What It Means

PO = Power Outage. The refrigerator detected that supply voltage dropped below spec long enough to risk food safety.

Common Causes

1. Normal Power Outage: Utility failure or someone flipped the breaker.
2. Brownout / Low Voltage: Shared circuits, undersized extension cords, or bad outlets.
3. Overheated Wiring/Fuses: Loose neutral or failing fuse heats up and drops voltage.
4. Control Glitch: Rare—usually clears after a reset.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Confirm Outage: Make sure power is currently stable. If lights flicker, fix the source before resetting the fridge.
2. Reset the Alert: On French-door models, press and hold Measured Fill (or the two buttons shown on the display) until the PO message clears. Older models use Door Alarm + Freezer Temp Down.
3. Check Food Temps: Toss perishables if temps exceeded 40 °F for more than 2 hours.
4. Inspect Wiring: Verify the fridge is on its own dedicated outlet, cords are not hot, and fuses/breakers are tight.
5. Add Voltage Protection: If your area has frequent outages, install a UPS/line conditioner so voltage stays stable.

Resources

• Heavy-Duty Appliance UPS (Amazon)
• Outlet Testers & Voltage Monitors (Amazon)