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

What Does This Error Mean?

PF on an LG dishwasher means the machine experienced a Power Failure during a cycle. When power is suddenly interrupted — from a power outage, a tripped breaker, or the machine being unplugged — and then restored, the dishwasher shows PF to let you know the cycle was interrupted. This is informational, not a malfunction. You will typically need to restart the wash cycle manually since it did not complete.

Affected Models

LG LDT5665V
LG LDFN4542S
LG LDP6797ST
LG LDT7808BD
Most LG dishwashers 2010 and newer

Common Causes

A household power outage interrupted the cycle in progress
A circuit breaker tripped while the dishwasher was running
The dishwasher was accidentally unplugged or the power cord was knocked loose
A power surge or brownout caused the machine to lose power momentarily
The outlet has a loose connection that cut power intermittently during the cycle

How to Fix It

Press the Power button to clear the PF message. The dishwasher is waiting for you to acknowledge the power interruption and decide what to do next.

On some LG models, pressing any button or simply pressing Start will clear the PF indicator.
Check whether dishes are clean. Depending on where the cycle was interrupted, dishes may or may not have been washed properly.

If the power failed early in the cycle, restart the wash from the beginning for the best results.
If a breaker tripped, go to your electrical panel and reset the breaker for the dishwasher circuit. If it trips again when the dishwasher starts, there may be a wiring or motor fault.

A breaker that repeatedly trips when the dishwasher runs indicates a serious fault — call an appliance technician.
Check the outlet and power cord. Make sure the dishwasher's power cord is firmly plugged in and the outlet has no loose connections.

You can test the outlet with a phone charger or lamp to confirm power is present.
If PF appears regularly without any known power interruptions, the outlet has intermittent power loss or the dishwasher's internal power control board is failing. Have either checked by a professional.

An outlet can develop internal loose connections over years of use — an electrician can check and replace it inexpensively.

When to Call a Professional

PF itself does not require a technician — it is just a power failure notification. However, if PF appears frequently without any obvious power outage, the outlet, circuit, or the dishwasher's internal power supply board may have an issue. An electrician can check the circuit, and an appliance technician can check the power board if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to rewash my dishes after a PF error?

It depends on when in the cycle the power was cut. If the dishwasher had completed most of the wash and rinse phases, your dishes may be clean enough. If power failed early, especially before the detergent dispenser opened, restart the full cycle.

Is the PF error a sign my dishwasher is broken?

Not usually. PF is simply a notification that power was interrupted. It is the same as any electronic device losing power unexpectedly. Only worry if PF appears repeatedly without an obvious cause like a storm or power outage.

Can a power surge damage my LG dishwasher?

A significant surge can damage the control board. If PF appeared after a power surge and now the dishwasher behaves erratically or certain functions do not work, the control board may have been damaged. Consider using a surge protector for your dishwasher in areas prone to power spikes.