PF
Maytag Dryer
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
Maytag PF stands for Power Failure.
It is not a fault — it is a notice that the dryer lost power partway through a cycle and has now come back.
Press Start to resume the interrupted cycle or Power/Off to clear the message and choose a new program.
If PF appears every cycle without an actual outage, then the cause is loose wiring, a flaky breaker, or a brownout at the outlet.
Affected Models
- Maytag Bravos top-load dryer
- Maytag Centennial dryer
- Maytag Maxima front-load dryer
- Maytag Performance Series dryer
Common Causes
- A real power outage during a cycle
- Tripped breaker or GFCI
- Loose or burned outlet contact giving brief disconnects
- Damaged power cord with intermittent connection
- Brownouts on the household supply during high-load events (oven, A/C kicking in)
How to Fix It
-
Press Start to resume.
If you do not need to change settings, just press Start.
The cycle picks up where it stopped.
This is the entire intended fix when PF appears once after an actual outage. -
Press Power/Off to clear and choose a new cycle.
If the load has been sitting wet for hours and you want a fresh program, hit Power/Off.
The PF message clears.
Then pick a cycle and press Start as usual. -
Track when PF appears.
If PF only ever shows up after storms or known outages, no further action is needed.
If it appears every few cycles with no outage, you have an intermittent power problem that needs investigation. -
Inspect plug and outlet.
Unplug the dryer.
Look at the prongs — heat damage on one side means a bad connection.
Replace a damaged cord (40-60 USD) or a worn-out outlet (5-10 USD). -
Test on a different circuit if possible.
On a smaller dryer or stackable, plug into a known-good 240V outlet.
If PF stops, the original outlet or breaker is the problem.
If PF continues, the issue is inside the dryer — check the harness from cord to control board. -
Have the breaker checked under load.
An electrician with a clamp meter can watch voltage at the dryer outlet during a full cycle.
If voltage dips well below 240V at any point, the breaker, the panel connection, or the service line is borderline.
This is worth fixing whether or not the dryer is the only complaint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my laundry be ruined after a PF?
Wet clothes that sat warm for several hours can mildew.
If the load was almost dry when the outage hit, finish the cycle and you are fine.
If clothes were soaking wet and sat overnight, run them through the washer again before drying.