Whirlpool - Refrigerator - PO

Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Code PO - What It Means & What to Do

Seeing PO on a Whirlpool refrigerator can be frustrating, especially if the display is flashing. This code often appears after a power interruption and is a common alert, not a sign of immediate danger.

What the Error Code Means

Error code PO generally means the refrigerator detected a recent power interruption and is reporting it to you.

It points to a power event rather than a confirmed failure.

Common Symptoms You May Notice

  • The display shows PO and the unit may beep.
  • Temperatures may have risen briefly after the outage.
  • The refrigerator returns to normal cooling after reset.

Most Common Causes (From Least to Most Serious)

  1. Recent power outage or unplugging: If power was interrupted, the refrigerator records the event and alerts you.
  2. Loose power connection: A plug that is not fully seated can cause brief interruptions.
  3. Momentary voltage drop: In some cases a short electrical dip can trigger the alert.

Safe Things You Can Check Yourself

  • Press any key or reset the alert to clear the PO display.
  • Confirm the power cord is fully seated in the outlet.
  • Monitor temperatures for a few hours to ensure cooling is stable.

If at any point this feels unsafe or unclear, stop and contact a professional.

When to Stop and Call for Service

  • The PO code returns repeatedly without a known outage.
  • The refrigerator does not return to normal cooling.
  • You notice burning smells, sparking, or repeated shutdowns.

Typical Repair Cost Range

$0-$200 is typical for diagnosis if power-related issues persist, depending on the cause and parts involved.

Costs vary by region, model, and provider. Request an estimate before approving any repair.