Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Codes
These codes are messages from your Whirlpool refrigerator's control board flagging faults with sensors, fans, defrost, doors, or power. Find your code in the list below for what it means and the first fix to try.
PO
Means: A power outage was detected and the fridge lost power then came back on, which may have let temperatures rise.
Fix: Press any button (or the temperature button) to clear it, then confirm the fridge is below 37F and the freezer below 0F.
SY EF
Means: Evaporator fan fault; the fan isn't circulating cold air, often shown alongside ice buildup on the freezer's rear wall.
Fix: Check that the evaporator fan spins freely and isn't blocked by ice; if it's frozen, defrost it, and if it stays dead, replace the fan motor.
SY CE
Means: System communication error between the main control board and a control module, causing displayed temps to mismatch actual temps.
Fix: Do a hard reset by unplugging the fridge for about 5-10 minutes, then restore power; if it returns, inspect the wiring harness between boards.
CF
Means: Communication failure between the main control board and the user interface control.
Fix: Unplug the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes to reset the boards; if the code persists, check the connectors and harness between the two boards.
PC
Means: Compressor circuit error; the fridge starts and stops in short cycles instead of running normal long cooling cycles.
Fix: Reset by unplugging for a few minutes; if it continues, the compressor, start relay, or control board likely needs professional service.
Door Alarm
Means: A door or freezer drawer has been left open for 2 or more minutes, usually with a repeating beep.
Fix: Close and reseat the door, clear any obstructions, and check the door gasket and hinge alignment if the alarm keeps triggering.
Temperature Alarm
Means: The fridge exceeded about 48F or the freezer exceeded about 15F for 1.5+ hours, indicating a cooling problem.
Fix: Verify the doors are sealing and airflow vents aren't blocked; if temps don't recover, inspect the condenser coils, fans, and cooling system.
E1
Means: Refrigerator temperature sensor (thermistor) fault, causing inaccurate readings and inconsistent cooling.
Fix: Reset the unit; if the code returns, test the thermistor for open/short with a meter and replace the sensor if it's out of spec.
E2
Means: Freezer temperature sensor (thermistor) is defective, which can lead to excess ice or poor freezing.
Fix: Reset the fridge, then test the freezer thermistor circuit and replace the sensor if the reading is open or shorted.
Flashing F
Means: General control board fault indicator.
Fix: Unplug the refrigerator for about one minute to reset the board; if the F keeps flashing, the main control board may need replacement.
FAQ
How do I clear the PO code on my Whirlpool refrigerator?
Press any button on the control panel to dismiss the power-outage alert, then confirm the fridge and freezer have returned to safe temperatures. If food warmed above 40F for over two hours, discard it.
How do I reset a Whirlpool refrigerator?
Unplug it from the wall (or trip the breaker) for at least 5-10 minutes to fully drain the control board, then restore power. This clears many communication and temporary fault codes.
What does SY EF mean and is it serious?
SY EF is an evaporator fan fault, meaning cold air isn't circulating, so the fridge won't cool properly. It's often caused by ice jamming the fan blade or a failed fan motor and should be addressed promptly to avoid food loss.
Why do CF and SY CE codes keep coming back after a reset?
A returning communication code usually points to a damaged wiring harness or connector between the main board and the user interface, or a failing control board. Inspect the connections and replace the faulty board if needed.
Do I need a technician for these codes?
Power, door, and sensor codes can often be handled DIY with a reset or part swap. Compressor (PC), sealed-system, and recurring board communication faults typically require a qualified appliance technician.