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Error code · Microwave

KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Display Flashing “:” or PF: Power failed or the clock is off

On KitchenAid over-the-range microwave hood combinations such as the KMHS120ESS and KHMS155LSS, a blinking colon or the letters PF mean power failed or the clock time was turned off. When power is first supplied, a colon…

Low risk · DIY check OK
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Code
Flashing ":" or PF in display
Appliance
Microwave
Brand
KitchenAid
Warranty
30-day workmanship

What Flashing ":" or PF in display means

On KitchenAid over-the-range microwave hood combinations such as the KMHS120ESS and KHMS155LSS, a blinking colon or the letters PF mean power failed or the clock time was turned off. When power is first supplied, a colon blinks in the display. Touch the clock pad and enter the correct time to bring the display back. It usually follows a storm, a tripped breaker, or a quick unplug.

Common causes of Flashing ":" or PF in display

  • Power outage or brief supply interruption
  • Clock time turned off on purpose
  • Newly installed microwave whose clock has never been set
✓ One safe check you can try

1. Touch the Clock pad on the control panel. 2. Enter the time of day using the number pads. 3. Touch the Clock pad again, or Start, to confirm. 4. If the colon or PF returns without an outage, check the outlet or breaker and call us if it repeats.

! Why to stop there
  • Setting a clock is a user task, not a repair.
  • If power keeps vanishing, the outlet or supply is the thing to check.
  • We only come when the display fails to hold the time.
Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.
→Same appliance

Other Microwave codes

PUSH or PSHKitchenAid Built-In Microwave Message PUSH or PSH: The oven is waiting for Start Registration ErrorKitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Message "Registration Error": Check the home network and try again Sabbath, Sab, 5Ab, or 5A6KitchenAid Built-In Microwave Display Sabbath, Sab, 5Ab or 5A6: Sabbath Mode is on SEKitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code SE: Keypad or user interface problem Probe or Insert ProbeKitchenAid Combination Microwave Message "Probe" or "Insert Probe": Seat the meat probe in its jack F4E1KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code F4E1: Cavity thermistor circuit F9QKitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code F9Q: Reset power and watch for a minute F4E4KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code F4E4: Humidity thermistor or its wiring
Flashing ":" or PF in displayFlashing ":" or PF in display questions
Does PF mean the microwave failed?

No, PF stands for power failure. It reports that power was interrupted. Once you set the clock, the microwave goes back to normal operation. It only reports an outage.

Can I turn the clock display off?

Yes, some models let you hide it, which also leaves the blinking colon. Setting the time again brings it back. Yes, some models let you hide it, which also leaves the blinking colon visible until the time is set again.

How do I know the outage was brief?

You will see the display reset along with other lights in the home. If nothing else lost power, check the plug and the breaker. Check the plug as well.

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Still unsure about Flashing ":" or PF in display?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

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