GE Refrigerator PF: Power Was Interrupted — Temperatures May Have Risen

PF is informational only — the refrigerator experienced a power outage and is alerting you that food temperatures may have been compromised during the interruption. The refrigerator is working normally now. PF is not a malfunction.

Clearing PF

Press any button on the control panel. Some models require pressing Clear Alarm or OK specifically.

Food Safety Assessment

The key question: how long was the power out?

If you were home, you know the duration.

If you were away, check indicators:

• Digital clocks on other appliances: flashing/reset = power was out
• Freezer ice cream texture: solid = brief outage. Soft or refrozen = extended
• Frozen water bottle test: fully frozen = brief. Partially melted = extended

USDA guidelines:

• Full freezer: safe ~48 hours (door closed)
• Half-full freezer: safe ~24 hours
• Refrigerator: safe ~4 hours (door closed)

When PF Repeats Without Outages

If only the refrigerator shows PF and nothing else lost power:

Dedicated circuit needed: The fridge should have its own 15-20A circuit. Sharing with other appliances causes voltage drops the board interprets as power loss.

Compressor startup surge: On older circuits, the compressor's inrush current can momentarily trip a worn breaker. The brief power break triggers PF.

GFCI nuisance tripping: Refrigerators on GFCI-protected circuits experience humidity-related tripping.

Loose power cord connection: The plug or outlet contacts may not grip firmly. Vibration from the compressor creates intermittent disconnection.

Parts (Only for Recurring PF)

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