Maytag Refrigerator PO Error Code - Causes & Fix

Maytag Refrigerator PO Error Code — What It Means

The PO code on your Maytag refrigerator stands for Power Outage. It appears when the control detects that power to the unit was interrupted and the freezer temperature climbed to 18°F (-8°C) or higher before power was restored. The display shows “PO,” an alert tone sounds three times, and “Confirm” blinks on the screen.

This is a status notification, not a diagnosis of a failed component. The refrigerator is simply reporting that it experienced a significant power loss event. Once you acknowledge the alert by pressing MEASURED FILL under Confirm, the code clears and the display returns to the home screen.

Jump to Fix

Common Causes

• Utility power outage A real power interruption from your electric company is the most common trigger for the PO alert.
• Tripped circuit breaker A breaker trip or other household electrical interruption cuts power long enough for the freezer to warm past the threshold.
• Refrigerator unplugged The unit was disconnected during cleaning, moving, or maintenance work.
• Faulty wall outlet or wiring A damaged outlet, loose connection, or wiring fault can create intermittent power loss without tripping the breaker.
• Damaged power cord A frayed or pinched cord interrupts incoming power and may cause repeated outage alerts.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Check for recent outages by asking neighbors or checking your utility provider’s website, and verify the refrigerator is plugged in and the breaker is on.
2. Press MEASURED FILL under Confirm on the control panel to acknowledge the power outage event and clear the PO display.
3. Perform a hard reset if the code does not clear: unplug the refrigerator or flip the breaker off, wait 30 seconds, then restore power.
4. Inspect the power cord and outlet for visible damage, overheating marks, loose connections, or charring at the plug or receptacle.
5. Test the wall outlet with a multimeter or plug in another appliance to confirm the outlet provides stable voltage.
6. Monitor freezer temperature over the next 24 hours to verify the unit returns to normal cooling and the PO code does not reappear.
7. Document repeated PO events and call a technician if the code returns without known outages, since this indicates an intermittent electrical fault or a deeper system issue.

Parts Often Needed

When to Call a Pro

Call a professional if the PO code returns repeatedly without known power outages, if the refrigerator does not resume normal cooling after you clear the alert, or if you find signs of electrical damage at the outlet or breaker panel. A technician will test incoming line voltage, inspect the power supply circuit, and check for intermittent faults in the wiring or control board. Also call for service if you are uncomfortable working with 120-volt household circuits or if your refrigerator displays additional error codes alongside PO.