GE Dishwasher Error Code PF

GE Dishwasher PF Error Code — What it Means & How to Fix It

What the PF code means

The PF code on a GE dishwasher stands for Power Failure (sometimes shown as Power Fault). It indicates the dishwasher detected an interruption or anomaly in its electrical supply during a cycle. This error usually appears after a brief loss of household power, a tripped breaker, or a transient electrical surge. While PF most often points to a temporary interruption that can be cleared by restarting the appliance, recurring PFs can signal wiring issues, a failing control board, or other components that require attention.

Common user impacts include aborted cycles, unheated wash or dry phases, lights or display going blank, and longer drying or cleaning times because the dishwasher may not complete its programmed sequence. Repeated power interruptions or persistent PF errors can lead to incomplete washes, increased energy use, and in rare cases, electrical hazards if caused by damaged wiring or failed electronics.

Common causes

• Temporary household power outage or brownout
• Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse on the dishwasher circuit
• Loose or damaged wiring connections at the junction box or terminal block
• Faulty electronic control board (main PCB) or power supply section
• Unstable incoming voltage or frequent electrical surges
• Touchpad/console glitches that fail to register a reset
• Door latch not making proper contact causing the control to misinterpret power state
• External surge protector or GFCI/AFCI device tripping unexpectedly

Troubleshooting steps

1. Reset power: Turn off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker for 1–2 minutes, then switch it back on to clear the PF code. Many PF events are cleared this way.
2. Check household power: Verify other appliances and lights on the same circuit are working. If multiple devices are affected, troubleshoot home power or contact an electrician.
3. Inspect the breaker/fuse: Ensure the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped and the fuse (if used) is intact. Reset the breaker and test the dishwasher on a full cycle.
4. Examine the door latch: Make sure the door closes fully and the latch engages. A loose latch can cause intermittent control behavior that mimics a PF condition.
5. Look for loose wiring: With power off at the breaker, remove the access panel and inspect the terminal block and wiring harness for loose or burnt connections. Tighten any loose screws and repair damaged wires before restoring power.
6. Test the control console: If the display is unresponsive after power is restored, try a control lock/unlock or perform the manufacturer’s reset sequence (consult the model manual).
7. Watch for surges: If your area has frequent voltage spikes, consider using a whole-home surge protector or dedicated surge protection for the dishwasher.
8. Run a diagnostic cycle: On many GE models you can run a service test mode to identify faulty components. Refer to the service manual or tech sheet for the exact steps.
9. Replace suspect parts: If PF persists and wiring/power are good, replace the electronic control board or console as indicated by diagnostics.
10. Call a technician: If you detect burning smells, visible electrical damage, or recurring power faults despite the above steps, stop and seek professional service.

Maintenance / Prevention Tips

• Install a dedicated circuit for the dishwasher to avoid shared loads and nuisance tripping.
• Use a whole-home or point-of-use surge protector to guard sensitive electronics on the control board.
• Periodically check and tighten the wiring connections at the dishwasher’s junction box.
• Keep the door latch and strike clean and free of debris so the door seals and latches properly.
• Avoid running heavy household loads (dryer, oven) on the same circuit simultaneously.
• Inspect the power cord (if present) for cuts, kinks, or heat damage.
• If your area has frequent brownouts, consider a voltage stabilizer or consult an electrician.
• Run a quick inspection once a year to look for signs of overheating or burnt connectors.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning and maintenance schedule in the user manual.
• Replace control boards or consoles with OEM parts and proper ESD precautions to prevent damage.
• Document repeated PF events (dates/times) — useful for technicians and for identifying patterns.
• Keep your home’s electrical system up to code and have an electrician evaluate older wiring.

FAQs

Q: I saw PF during a storm — is my dishwasher damaged?

A: Not necessarily. If PF appeared during a storm or outage, it’s often a temporary power interruption. Reset the breaker and power-cycle the dishwasher. If it runs normally afterward, there’s probably no damage. If PF repeats or other symptoms appear, have it checked.

Q: Will PF clear by itself?

A: Sometimes. If PF was caused by a transient power interruption, it may clear after power is stable. It’s best to manually reset at the breaker to ensure the control fully restarts.

Q: Can I keep using the dishwasher after a PF code?

A: If the PF clears and the dishwasher functions normally, you can continue using it. If the code returns or the unit shows other faults (no heat, incomplete cycles, burning smell), stop using it and call a technician.

Q: How do technicians diagnose repeated PFs?

A: Technicians will check incoming voltage, inspect wiring connections, run the dishwasher’s service diagnostics, and test or replace the electronic control board and console if needed.

Conclusion / Safety Notice

PF errors often stem from simple power interruptions and can be resolved with a power reset. However, recurring PF codes or evidence of electrical damage (burn marks, burning smells, frequent breaker trips) indicate a potentially hazardous condition. For safety, always switch off power at the breaker before inspecting internal components and never attempt complex electrical repairs if you are not qualified.

If basic troubleshooting (resetting the breaker, checking the latch, inspecting visible wiring) doesn’t clear the PF, contact a qualified appliance technician or licensed electrician. Professional diagnosis ensures safe repair and helps prevent further damage or safety risks.