PO or P0 error on a Whirlpool fridge: What it is & how to troubleshoot

If you’re seeing a PO or P0 error code on your Whirlpool fridge’s control panel, it likely means there’s a power-related problem. This may be caused by a recent power outage, an unstable power supply, or a malfunction in the refrigerator’s control board. 

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool refrigerator while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Disclaimer: The error code information provided in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Read more: Refrigerator Won’t Start: Top 6 Reasons and Fixes for Kenmore, Whirlpool, Frigidaire, GE, and Other Brands

Keep safety first

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock. 
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

How to troubleshoot the PO or P0 error code

Step 1 – Reset the refrigerator

Sometimes a simple reset is all that’s needed to clear temporary glitches. Here’s how you can reset your Whirlpool refrigerator:

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet.
2. Wait for at least 30 seconds to allow the control board to reset completely.
3. Plug the refrigerator back into the outlet.
4. Check if the error code has been cleared. If not, proceed to the next step.

Step 2 – Investigate power supply issues

1. Turn off the fridge and unplug it from the power supply.
2. Inspect the power cord and outlet for any signs of damage, such as fraying or scorch marks. If any damage is found, replace the cord as needed and/or contact a qualified electrician to inspect and repair the outlet.
3. Make sure the power cord is securely plugged into the outlet.

If the voltage to the fridge is fluctuating, contact a qualified electrician.

Step 3 – Inspect and reset the control board

If the P0 or PO error code still lingers after you address power supply issues, the problem might lie with the control board itself. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Make sure the refrigerator is unplugged from the power outlet.
2. Follow the instructions in your fridge user manual to access the control board. You may need to remove a panel on the back or inside of the fridge.
3. Look over the control board for any signs of damage, such as burnt or damaged components. If you find any damage, replace the control board.
4. If you don’t see any damage to the board, reset it by pressing and holding the designated reset button for a few seconds (consult your user manual for specific instructions).
5. Reassemble the refrigerator and plug it back into the power outlet.
6. Check if the error code has been cleared.

Read more: How to Level a Refrigerator in 6 Easy Steps

How to keep your refrigerator running & avoid power-related problems

Regularly maintain your fridge

Keep your fridge in top condition by regularly inspecting the power cord and outlet for any signs of wear and tear. By maintaining your fridge, you can identify and resolve potential issues before they morph into error codes.

Invest in a surge protector

Power surges can wreak havoc on your refrigerator’s control board and cause error codes like P0 or PO to display. To protect your fridge from these surges, invest in a high-quality surge protector from a trusted manufacturer that is designed specifically for appliances. When your refrigerator is plugged into a surge protector, the control board is protected from sudden voltage spikes. This helps extend the life of your fridge and avoid costly repair work.

More tips

• Keep your refrigerator connected to a dedicated outlet to prevent overloading and voltage fluctuations.
• Avoid using extension cords since they may not provide a stable power supply and can increase the risk of electrical fires.
• Keep the refrigerator’s power cord away from heat sources and sharp objects that could potentially damage it.
• Periodically check the power outlet and cord for any signs of wear or damage and replace them if necessary.
• In areas with frequent power outages, consider installing a backup power source, such as a generator or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), to minimize disruptions to your refrigerator’s operation.

Read more: How To Clean Refrigerator Coils In 5 Easy Steps & Why To Do It

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your refrigerator working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more. We can also help you troubleshoot common fridge problems here.

Be sure to subscribe to us on YouTube and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!