Maytag refrigerator — Error Code PO
Power Outage detected; freezer temperature rose above 18°F during power loss.
What it means
The 'PO' (Power Outage) error code on a Maytag refrigerator is an alert generated by the main control board indicating that the unit lost electrical power. More specifically, it triggers when power is restored and the freezer NTC thermistor detects that the internal temperature has risen above 18°F (-8°C). This is a safety feature designed to warn you that the cooling cycle was interrupted long enough that perishable food may have thawed or spoiled. The control board locks the user interface display with 'PO' (and sometimes an audible beep) until the user acknowledges the outage. It does not inherently mean the refrigerator is broken, but rather that a power interruption occurred.
Likely Causes
- 1 Grid Power FailureA standard blackout or brownout interrupted voltage to the refrigerator's main control board.
- 2 Tripped Circuit BreakerA power surge or overloaded circuit tripped the breaker at the main electrical panel, cutting power to the appliance.
- 3 Loose Cord or Faulty OutletThe power cord was bumped loose, or the wall receptacle is failing and dropping voltage under load.
- 4 Main Control Board GlitchRarely, a failing main control board may drop DC voltage internally, tricking the microprocessor into registering a power outage.
How to clear / reset
To clear the PO error code, you must acknowledge the alert. On most Maytag models, simply press any key on the dispenser control panel. On certain configurations, you may need to press and hold 'Measured Fill', 'Options', or 'Alarm Reset' for 3 seconds. Once acknowledged, the PO code will disappear, and the display will revert to the home screen. If the code immediately returns or the interface is unresponsive, perform a hard reset by unplugging the refrigerator for 5 minutes to bleed off residual DC voltage from the control board capacitors, then plug it back in.
Common replacement parts
When to call a pro
Call a professional if the PO code won't clear after a hard reset, or if the refrigerator fails to resume cooling. Power outages are often accompanied by power surges, which can short out the main control board, fry the compressor start relay, or damage the inverter board. If your compressor isn't kicking on after power is restored, Axis Appliance Repair offers a $90 diagnostic (waived upon authorized repair) to test the electrical components and get your fridge cooling again, backed by our 1-year parts and labor warranty.
FAQs
How much does it cost to fix the PO error code?
Usually $0, as it just requires a button press to acknowledge a power outage. If a power surge damaged the control board or start relay, repairs typically range from $150 to $400.
Can I clear the PO code myself?
Yes. Pressing any button on the display panel, or holding the 'Alarm Reset' button for 3 seconds, will clear the code on almost all Maytag refrigerators.
Will the PO code clear itself once the fridge cools down?
No. The control board requires manual user acknowledgment so you are aware that the internal temperature spiked, which may have affected food safety.
How long does it take to fix?
Clearing the code takes 10 seconds. If a power surge damaged a component, a technician can usually diagnose and replace the faulty board or relay in under an hour.
Will it damage the refrigerator to keep running with the PO code?
No, the refrigerator will actually resume cooling even while the PO code is displayed. However, you will be locked out of dispenser functions and temperature adjustments until you clear it.
Need help with PO?
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