GE Microwave Error Code PF and How To Fix

Do you notice error code 'PF' on your GE microwave's display, and you're not sure what it means? The 'PF' error code is a clear indication that there was a power failure which caused your microwave to turn off. However, what's not clear is what exactly caused your GE microwave's power to fail. The following guide will help you to not only figure out what could be causing power failure issues within your GE microwave, but how to fix it!

What is the GE Microwave PF Code?

Normally, your GE microwave will display a 'PF' error code if your home experiences a power outage, and turns back on after the outage is over. When you see this error code pop-up or flash on the screen, you can usually just dismiss it by pressing the 'CLEAR' or 'OFF' button on the touchpad - and that's that! But sometimes a 'PF' error can be a sign of another issue for your microwave, such as the power outlet that it's plugged into, as well as issues with the microwave's fuse or control board.

GE Microwave Codes PF, 888, or 8888

Depending on your GE microwave model, you will either see a 'PF', '888' or '8888' error code - these all carry the same meaning but can all be dismissed and cleared by simply pressing 'CLEAR' or 'OFF' on the control panel touchpad. However, if this error code persistently appears on your microwave, there may be something else wrong, or a part that you need to replace.

What if GE Microwave PF Error Won’t Clear?

If your microwave still won't start after receiving a PF, 888, or 8888 error code, and the error code won't clear by using the above methods, there is likely a part within your microwave or the outlet it's connected to that isn't working properly and causing the electrical current to not travel consistently. Users who have noticed such error code have also experienced their microwave reaching very hot temperatures, and emitting a hot smell after use. The following items (in no specific order) are actions you can take now to get a better grasp of your microwave's power failure situation, and potentially fix it:

• Inspect Your Fuse Box: The fuse box within your home is commonly located within the garage, but may be in another room within your home. When checking your fuse box, exercise utmost caution, due to the high voltages of electricity within. Check whether any fuses are turned off, and turn them back on if necessary to your microwave's operation. If you notice any blown fuses, that normally appear as black or melted, replace them immediately by turning off power to the fuse box, and then using a screwdriver to carefully remove the old fuse and install the new one.
• Check Microwave's Outlet and Power Cable: Using a non-contact voltage tester, check the wall outlet of the microwave to see whether it's fully operational and/or loose. A loose wall outlet not only impacts your microwave's power supply, but also poses a potential fire hazard and must be replaced immediately. As well, use a voltage tester to inspect whether the power cable of your microwave carries a current while it's plugged in. If it doesn't, it's recommended that you contact a professional technician to replace the cable, or replace the microwave outright.
• Broken Door Switch: A broken or non-working door switch within your microwave may cause your microwave to stop intermittently, and without warning. A broken door switch will also allow microwaves to escape from the interior, which results in the exterior of the appliance becoming hot and producing a burning smell. If your door switch needs to be replaced, you can read the guide below to assist in the process.

How to Replace a Microwave Door Switch

Replacing a door switch on your microwave is not only important to the convenience of using the appliance, but its safety as well. If your microwave's door switch needs replacing, you can find a compatible GE microwave door switch on our PartSelect inventory, and a general replacement guide below:

1. Unplug your microwave.
2. Use a screwdriver to remove the grill from the top of the microwave.
3. Once the grill is disconnected, remove it from the microwave.
4. Use a screwdriver to unthread any screws blocking access to the control panel.
5. Lift the control panel to dislodge it, and carefully pull it away from the appliance.
6. Unthread and disconnect the switch assembly.
7. Depress the securing tab of the switch, and disconnect its wire connector.
8. Install the new door switch to the wire connectors and securing tab.
9. Rethread the switch assembly.
10. Install the control panel and secure it with screws.
11. Reinstall the grill of the microwave.
12. Reconnect the microwave to power, and test the switch.

How to Replace a GE Microwave Fuse

A microwave's fuse is a small glass tube that protects it from any short circuits or power surges, which can arise during power outages. If you notice your microwave is no longer powering on after a power outage, or displays a PF, 888, or 8888 error code and turns off when in use, the fuse may be blown and in need of replacement. Not only can you find an OEM GE microwave fuse on our part site, but you can read our general guide below to assist in your fuse removal and installation process:

1. Disconnect your microwave from the wall outlet.
2. Open your microwave door and remove the screws securing the top grill/panel of the microwave.
3. Remove the screws securing the front control panel touchpad.
4. Lift the control panel and pull it away from the microwave to access the inner components.
5. Locate the fuse and use a screwdriver to carefully gain access to it. Your fuse will most likely be located above the control panel.
6. Use a set of pliers to carefully remove the fuse, so you can inspect it and/or replace it. Check for any signs of damage, such as corrosion or melting.
7. Install the new fuse in place, and check the internal wires for corrosion or burns.
8. Reassemble and reseat the inner control panel portion of the microwave, and reinstall it.
9. Rethread the securing screws of the control panel touchpad and the top of the microwave.
10. Reconnect your microwave to the wall outlet and test it.

How to Replace a GE Microwave Control Panel

The control panel in a microwave is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the microwave's power level and temperature, as well as making sure the microwave shuts off when it's unsafe to operate. GE microwave users will see PF, 888, or 8888 error codes after their microwave has lost power, or if the control panel has failed due to a power surge or short circuit. If your control panel persistently produces error codes, it or its circuit board will need replacing immediately. Not only can you find genuine OEM GE microwave circuit boards and control panels in our parts inventory, but you can read the following guide for a general removal and installation overview:

1. Unplug your GE microwave.
2. Unthread and remove screws securing the top grille.
3. Open the microwave and remove the grille.
4. Unthread any screws securing/mounting the control panel.
5. Detach the control panel.
6. Pull the control panel away from the microwave and disconnect it.
7. Disconnect the cables from the control panel to the microwave, and ensure you know their positions for the installation later.
8. Unscrew or unclasp the main circuit board within the control panel.
9. Remove the circuit board.
10. With a multimeter, you can now test the circuit board's terminals to determine whether it has continuity, and you can check the control panel visually for any signs of damage.
11. To replace the assembly, install the circuit board inside the control panel housing and secure it with screws or clasps.
12. Install the control panel and the appropriate cables.
13. Secure and mount the control panel to the microwave.
14. Reinstall the grille.
15. Plug your microwave in and test it.

When to Replace a GE Microwave

At this point, if you're not able to get your microwave working properly, there may be an issue even more involved, and when dealing with microwaves, big issues are quite complicated and hazardous, even for veteran repair-people. So whether you end up getting a new microwave or have a fixed one, hopefully it's working all in one piece and you're able to avoid any power-issue error codes! To stay safe in the future, here are some easy tips and tricks for your GE microwave:

• Open The Door Carefully: To avoid blowing a fuse issues in your microwave, ensure you open its door carefully to avoid blowing the internal fuse.
• Clean It Regularly: Just like any appliance, keeping your microwave clean will keep your food tasting good, and your home from any hazards.
• Replace Parts: No appliance works well with broken parts, even if it's just a lightbulb that's burnt out. Always replace its broken parts, and find them on PartSelect!

For any and all other appliance error codes or home improvement guides, make sure to stay tuned to our PartSelect blog!