LG Washer PF Error Code — What It Means
The PF code stands for power failure. Your LG washer detected a loss of incoming power while it was running a cycle. LG built this code into the washer’s power failure recovery system to let you know the cycle was interrupted. The washer stores the interrupted state in memory and tries to resume where it left off once power comes back. By itself, a PF code is not a defect, it is normal recovery behavior after an outage, unplugging, or breaker trip.
If PF appears once after a known power event and the machine resumes normally, no repair is needed. However, if PF shows up repeatedly without any outage, the washer will not resume, or the unit stops powering on entirely after a PF event, the code is pointing you toward an underlying power-supply or control-board issue rather than a simple utility outage.
Common Causes
- Utility outage or brownout A brief loss of grid power or voltage sag while the washer is running will trigger PF.
- Unplugged cord or tripped breaker Any interruption at the receptacle or circuit panel during a cycle stores a PF event.
- Loose connection at the harness or control board An intermittent power feed inside the machine can mimic a power failure and prevent the washer from restarting.
- Low or high incoming water pressure LG lists water pressure outside the 14.5–80 psi range as a condition to verify when troubleshooting PF on some models.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Verify the event by asking whether there was a real outage, unplugging, or breaker trip at the time PF appeared.
- Reset the washer by unplugging the unit or switching off the breaker, then press and hold START/PAUSE for 5 seconds while power is off, restore power, and try a new cycle.
- Drain trapped water if the cycle stopped mid-fill by closing both water taps, running a drain-only or spin-only sequence as your model allows, then restarting the cycle.
- Check the outlet voltage with a multimeter to confirm proper 120 V supply if the washer will not power back on after PF.
- Inspect the power cord and plug for damage, verify the cord seats fully in the rear socket, and wiggle connectors at the main control board to find loose pins.
- Measure water supply pressure at the hose bibs with a gauge to confirm 14.5–80 psi, and install a pressure-reducing valve if pressure exceeds 116 psi.
- Replace the main control board or harness only after confirming voltage at the board is present but the unit will not initialize, since PF itself does not indicate a failed component.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Main control board (PCB assembly) | Amazon | Only if voltage reaches the board but the washer will not power on or repeatedly throws PF with no external outage. |
| Power cord and strain relief | Amazon | When the cord shows physical damage or the plug makes poor contact at the rear socket. |
| Wire harness and connectors | Amazon | If wiggle-testing reveals intermittent contact between the cord receptacle and the control board. |
When to Call a Pro
Call a technician if the PF code appears over and over without any utility outage, the washer will not resume or power on after you reset it, or you measure correct voltage at the outlet but find no power reaching the control board. These symptoms point to an intermittent connection or failed board that requires disassembly, harness tracing, and live voltage checks inside the cabinet. A single PF after a known outage is normal and needs no service.