Maytag Dryer PF Error Code: Power Failure Interrupted the Cycle (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)
What the code means
Maytag's dryer error-code list defines PF as "Power failure": the drying cycle has been interrupted by a power failure. Maytag's PF help article adds two less obvious triggers. During an outage, the control can show PF if it detected an unexpected amount of electrical "noise" on the power line and read it as the wrong voltage. PF can also appear if any keys were pressed during the 10-second delay right after the dryer powers up. So PF is the control reporting what happened to its power, not a fault in the drum, heater or motor. Don't confuse it with L2, which Maytag uses for low or no line voltage that keeps the heater from turning on while the dryer keeps running.
Likely causes
- A power outage, flicker or brownout during the cycle
- Electrical noise on the supply line during an outage that the control read as an incorrect voltage (Maytag)
- Pressing keys during the 10-second delay right after the dryer powers up (Maytag)
- A tripped breaker or blown fuse. Electric dryers use two household fuses or breakers, so one can fail on its own (Maytag)
- A loose or incorrectly installed power cord or loose terminal screws at the dryer
Safe DIY checks
Unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker before opening panels.
- Touch and hold START to restart the cycle, or press POWER to clear PF from the display.
- If there was a recent outage, switch off the dryer's household circuit breaker for 5 minutes, switch it back on, then watch the dryer for 5 minutes to make sure PF doesn't return.
- After powering up, wait about 10 seconds before pressing any keys.
- On an electric dryer, make sure both household fuses are intact and tight, or that the breakers haven't tripped. Reset or replace as needed.
- With the dryer unplugged, make sure the power cord is plugged in firmly. Electric dryers need a 240-volt supply, and Maytag says the terminal screws at the dryer should be tight.
- If PF keeps coming back, call Maytag at 1-800-344-1274 or a technician.
🛠 When to call a pro
- PF keeps returning after the 5-minute breaker reset and there's no outage in the house.
- A fuse keeps blowing or a breaker keeps tripping. Maytag says to call an electrician if the problem continues.
- You don't have a 240-volt supply for an electric dryer, or you're unsure. Maytag says to check with a qualified electrician.
- The outlet, plug or cord looks scorched or feels hot. Stop using the dryer and call an electrician.
- Checking the terminal block screws or cord wiring behind the dryer's rear panel, if you're not comfortable working with 240-volt wiring.
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)
Only if an electrician or technician finds the cord damaged or wired wrong. PF itself usually needs no parts. Follow your dryer's installation instructions for 3- or 4-wire connection.
Search eBay →Sources
- Maytag Product Help: PF - Error Code - Dryer (power-line noise, 10-second delay, 5-minute breaker reset and 5-minute check)
- Maytag Product Help: Error Codes in Dryers (PF = power failure, hold START or press POWER; L2 low line voltage)
- Maytag Product Help: No Power - Electric Dryer (two fuses or breakers, 240-volt supply, power cord and terminal screws)
- Maytag Product Help: L2 - Error Code - Dryer (low or no line voltage, how it differs from PF)
Last reviewed 2026-10-23. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.