Code: PF🌀 Kenmore Dryer

Kenmore Dryer PF Error Code: Power Failure During the Cycle (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)

Reviewed 2026-10-23 · Based on 4 manufacturer & service sources

What the code means

Sears PartsDirect lists PF the same way for Kenmore 110-series electronic-control dryers, Kenmore Elite dryers and Kenmore Elite Oasis dryers: a power failure occurred while the dryer was running. Its fix is to restart the cycle (press Start to continue, or Stop to clear the display), and if the code appears frequently, check the power cord and the electrical outlet. A Whirlpool dryer tech sheet (8541833) for the same family of electronic controls describes it the same way: "PF" flashes to show that a power failure occurred while the dryer was running, and you press Start to continue or Pause/Cancel to clear the display. So PF is the control telling you what happened to its power, not a heater, motor or sensor fault. Kenmore 110-series dryers are built by Whirlpool; you'll find the model number on the label inside the door opening.

Likely causes

Safe DIY checks

⚠ Before you start

Unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker before opening panels.

  1. Press Start to continue the cycle, or press Stop (Pause/Cancel) to clear PF from the display.
  2. Check whether the house had an outage or flicker. A one-off PF after an outage needs no repair.
  3. Check the dryer's breaker or fuses. An electric dryer runs on 240 volts through a double breaker or two fuses, so make sure it's fully on, or switch it fully off and back on.
  4. Unplug the dryer and make sure the plug seats firmly in the outlet. Don't use an extension cord.
  5. With the dryer unplugged, look over the power cord for cuts, crushed spots or scorching, and check that the cord's strain relief at the back of the dryer is tight.
  6. If PF keeps coming back with no outage in the house, have the cord, terminal block and outlet checked (see below).

🛠 When to call a pro

  • PF keeps appearing during cycles even though the house power is steady. Sears says to check the power cord and outlet when it's frequent, and the cord may need replacing.
  • The breaker keeps tripping or a fuse keeps blowing. Call an electrician.
  • The outlet, plug or cord looks burned or feels hot. Stop using the dryer and have an electrician check the circuit.
  • Replacing the cord or checking the terminal block screws behind the rear access cover, if you aren't comfortable working with 240-volt wiring. Unplug the dryer first.
  • PF appears along with other codes or the controls act erratically. Whirlpool's tech sheet notes that corroded connectors are the most common cause of control failure, which is a job for a technician.

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

⚙

Dryer power cord (3-wire or 4-wire, to match your outlet)

The part Sears lists for frequent PF codes. Only replace it if it's damaged or a technician confirms it's the cause, and match your outlet type.

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Sources

  1. Sears PartsDirect: Kenmore 110 series electronic control model dryer error codes (PF = power failure during the cycle, restart, check the power cord and outlet if frequent)
  2. Sears PartsDirect: Kenmore Elite dryer error codes (PF = power failure while running, press Start to continue or Stop to clear, check the outlet cord)
  3. Sears PartsDirect: Kenmore Elite Oasis dryer error codes (PF = power failure, press Start or Stop, replace a damaged power cord)
  4. Whirlpool dryer tech sheet 8541833 (PF flashes after a power failure while running, Start to continue or Pause/Cancel to clear; check fuse/breaker; corroded connectors as the most common cause of control failure)

Last reviewed 2026-10-23. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.