Kenmore Refrigerator PF Error: Power Failure Detected
The kenmore refrigerator pf error is a fault signal from the control board — this guide walks through what it means, common causes, and safe diagnostic steps. What Does Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code PF Mean? PF on a Kenmore 106-series refrigerator stands for Power Failure. Models in the 106.xx series — Kenmore’s Whirlpool-platform side-by-side and […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Yes. PF is an informational notification, not a mechanical fault. Once cleared, the Kenmore 106 refrigerator resumes normal operation. The only concern is food safety if the power outage was prolonged — assess perishables independently before relying on them.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. Pressing any control pad button clears PF immediately on Kenmore 106-series models. If PF recurs multiple times per day without any real outage, inspect the outlet, power cord, and breaker before suspecting a board fault.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: PF returns multiple times per day with no known power interruption, Compartment temperatures do not return to set points within two hours of clearing PF.
Symptoms You May Notice
PF appears on the display panel immediately after power is restored
As soon as utility power returns to the Kenmore 106 refrigerator, the electronic control board displays PF and may sound an audible alert to draw the user's attention to the fact that cooling was interrupted.
Interior compartment temperatures higher than set points after outage
Depending on the duration of the power outage and ambient conditions, the fresh food and freezer compartments may be warmer than their set temperatures and need several hours to return to safe levels.
Ice maker cycle may be paused or reset
The ice maker on 106-series models stops its harvest cycle during a power interruption and may need to complete a full thermal cycle — up to 90 minutes — before producing new ice after power is restored and PF is cleared.
Beeping alert tone sounds until a button is pressed
Along with the PF indication, the Kenmore 106 emits a repeating chirp or beep that continues until the user presses any control panel button to acknowledge the power-interruption event and clear the alert.
Possible Causes
Utility grid outage or home circuit breaker trip
The most common cause — power to the outlet was interrupted by a grid outage, a tripped circuit breaker, or a GFCI outlet nuisance trip, cutting power to the refrigerator.
DIY PossibleLoose power cord connection at the wall outlet
A partially inserted power plug can cause micro-interruptions that the control board logs as repeated PF events even without a real grid outage — the plug appears to make full contact but the grip is insufficient to maintain connection under vibration.
DIY PossibleControl board voltage monitoring circuit fault
Rarely, the control board's internal voltage sensing circuit fails and generates PF alerts without any actual power interruption — a sign the sensing circuitry or the board itself has degraded.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
-
1
Press any control pad button to acknowledge and clear PF
On Kenmore 106-series refrigerators, pressing any button on the temperature control panel acknowledges the PF alert and clears it from the display. The refrigerator immediately resumes normal cooling operation. No breaker reset is required in most cases.
If PF reappears within a day without any known outage, check that the power cord is fully and firmly seated in a dedicated wall outlet. Kenmore recommends a dedicated 15-amp grounded circuit for all refrigerator models.
-
2
Verify food safety temperatures after a prolonged outage
After clearing PF, allow the Kenmore refrigerator one to two hours to return both compartments to their set-point temperatures. If the power outage lasted more than four hours, inspect all perishables using the USDA 40°F rule — discard meat, dairy, eggs, and cooked foods that have been above 40°F for more than two hours.
An independent appliance thermometer placed on the middle fresh food shelf gives an accurate reading of actual compartment temperature — more reliable than the panel display during the recovery period immediately after a long outage.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Outlet voltage measures below 108 V or above 132 V under load — indicating electrical supply issues requiring an electrician
- PF recurs daily despite confirmed stable power supply — suggesting control board voltage sensing failure
- Other error codes appear in combination with recurring PF events
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
Refrigerator Repair Service Schedule Appointment