For the KitchenAid refrigerator record covered here, PO is associated with power-outage / power-related alert (model-dependent). This wording should be read narrowly: it describes the system or condition the control is reporting, not a guaranteed failed part.
Reviewed by Liam Porter · Last reviewed August 11, 2026
Written by
Liam Porter Appliance Care EditorPublished September 2, 2026
Content status:
Verified
Error codePO
ApplianceRefrigerator
Affected model seriesSelect KitchenAid electronic-control appliances (verify the code map for yours)
Quick answer
For the KitchenAid refrigerator record covered here, PO is associated with power-outage / power-related alert (model-dependent). This wording should be read narrowly: it describes the system or condition the control i…
Model compatibility: KitchenAid reuses codes across series and model years, so PO may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What this code means
Power interruption was detected — confirm stable power; many units resume after PO clears. If your manual lists a different description for this code, trust the manual over any general summary.
Signs
Symptoms you may notice
The display may appear after an outage, breaker trip, or interruption.
Clock/settings or alarm history may need acknowledgement depending on the model.
Food temperatures may have changed during a long outage.
Why it happens
Possible causes
A utility outage or unplugged/interrupted power source.
A tripped breaker or unstable supply.
A control reset/history condition after power was restored.
Before you call
Safe checks you can make
These are simple, non-hazardous checks only. If anything is unclear, stop and contact a technician.
Confirm stable power at the outlet
Perform a manufacturer-approved restart once
Record the full model number
Record the full KitchenAid model and serial numbers before contacting a technician
Important safety warning. Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Please avoid
What not to attempt
Do not open internal panels or access high-voltage components
Do not bypass door locks, safety switches or interlocks
Get help
When to call a technician
If the safe checks do not resolve the condition, schedule an independent KitchenAid appliance diagnosis. Provide the full model number and a photo of the PO display so the technician can start with the correct model-specific code map.
Seeing this code on your KitchenAid appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair. Independent service — not an official KitchenAid service center.
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For the record covered by this page, PO relates to power-outage / power-related alert (model-dependent). Confirm the exact definition against the full model number before ordering parts or authorizing an internal repair.
You can correct an obvious external condition and use the normal owner-approved restart or acknowledgement procedure. If the same code returns, clearing the display again does not repair the cause.
Only if the condition is clearly a normal status/maintenance indication and the appliance is operating normally. Stop using it for smoke, burning odor, arcing, repeated breaker trips, uncontrolled heating, gas odor, active leakage near electrical parts, or a significant loss of refrigeration.
No. The code identifies a condition or diagnostic path. Model-specific testing should confirm the failed component before parts are ordered.
