FixByModel
PF

Maytag PF: Power failure interrupted the drying cycle

The dryer's control lost power part-way through a cycle, so it stopped and flagged the interruption. It is almost always the household supply rather than a fault inside the dryer.

DIY fix

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Most likely causes

  1. A brief household power outage or brownout during the cycle
  2. Electrical 'noise' or a voltage dip the control read as a fault
  3. A key pressed within the first 10 seconds after power was restored
  4. Loose or intermittent power cord or outlet connection
  5. A partly tripped double-pole circuit breaker
Before you start — unplug the dryer, and on a gas model shut off the gas supply. Let it cool first — the drum, heater and exhaust can be hot. If a step involves the heating element, wiring, or opening the cabinet and you're unsure, stop and call a qualified technician.

Step-by-step fix

1Restart or clearPress and hold START to resume the cycle, or press POWER to clear the PF from the display.
2Reset the breakerIf there was a recent outage, switch the dryer's household circuit breaker fully off for 5 minutes, then back on.
3Run a test cycleStart a short Timed Dry cycle and watch for 5 minutes to confirm the code does not return.
4Check the connectionsConfirm the power cord is fully seated at the outlet and the terminal-block screws are tight.
5Escalate if repeatedIf PF keeps appearing with no outages, have the outlet, cord, and control power supply inspected.

Still showing PF?

If you’ve worked through every step and PF keeps returning, an internal part likely needs testing and replacement. That’s a job for a qualified appliance technician, who can measure the suspect part against the service-manual spec before replacing it.

Which models this applies to

Maytag dryers. Maytag electric and gas dryers with a digital display; the same power-loss condition applies across current and older platforms.

FAQ

What does Maytag PF mean?

Power failure interrupted the drying cycle. The dryer's control lost power part-way through a cycle, so it stopped and flagged the interruption. It is almost always the household supply rather than a fault inside the dryer.

What causes Maytag PF?

The most likely cause is a brief household power outage or brownout during the cycle. Other causes include Electrical 'noise' or a voltage dip the control read as a fault; A key pressed within the first 10 seconds after power was restored; Loose or intermittent power cord or outlet connection; A partly tripped double-pole circuit breaker.

Can I fix Maytag PF myself?

Usually yes. Start by working through the steps above, beginning with: press and hold start to resume the cycle, or press power to clear the pf from the display.