Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Code PO — Power Outage Detected
What this means
The PO (Power Outage) error code on Whirlpool refrigerators alerts you that the power supply was interrupted long enough for the freezer temperature to rise above 18°F (-8°C). This is primarily a food safety warning, letting you know that food in the freezer may have begun to thaw during the outage. The refrigerator itself is functioning normally — this code is purely informational and is easily dismissed.
Alternate codes: P0
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsAcknowledge the power outage alert
Press any button on the refrigerator's control panel to dismiss the PO error code. On some models, you may need to press the 'Measured Fill' button or the temperature adjustment button specifically.
The exact button to press varies by model — try pressing any button on the display panel and the alarm should stop.
Check your food safety
Open the freezer and check if any items have thawed or partially thawed. According to USDA guidelines, food that still contains ice crystals or is at 40°F or below is safe to refreeze. Discard any items that have fully thawed and been above 40°F for more than 2 hours.
A freezer thermometer is a worthwhile investment — it tells you the exact temperature even when the display is flashing an error.
Verify the refrigerator is cooling properly
After dismissing the alert, check that the compressor is running (you should hear a low hum from the back of the fridge). Verify the temperature display shows the set temperature and is trending downward.
It can take 24 hours for a refrigerator to return to its set temperature after a prolonged power outage — do not add warm food during this time.
Consider a surge protector
If power outages are frequent in your area, consider connecting the refrigerator through a surge protector to protect the electronics from power surges when power is restored.
Make sure any surge protector used is rated for the refrigerator's amperage (typically 15 amps). Underpowered strips can overheat.
When to call a professional
The PO code does not indicate a mechanical problem. However, if the refrigerator does not cool down after the power is restored, or if the code appears without an actual power outage, the main control board may need professional diagnosis.
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
Learn more about our sourcesParts you may need
No replacement parts typically needed for this fix.
Links may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend parts relevant to this repair.