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Source-backed error-code guide

Reviewed

Amana microwave PF / FLASHING : Status Message

PF or a flashing colon is normally a power-restoration/status message, not proof of a failed microwave. Clear the display with the model-appropriate Cancel/Off or Cancel key and reset the clock if needed; if the message keeps flashing, Amana advises contacting a qualified electrician.

Applies to Amana over-the-range microwave with an applicable electronic display

What the appliance detected

Detected condition

Amana states that PF or a flashing colon indicates a power failure or that the clock time has been turned off on applicable models.

What may contribute

Possible causes

  • A recent power failure may have interrupted the microwave clock.
  • The time-of-day clock may have been turned off or may need to be reset.
  • A persistent flashing display may point to an external electrical-supply issue that should be evaluated by a qualified electrician.

Start conservatively

Safe preliminary checks

Work in order and stop whenever a step is not supported by the documentation for your model.

  1. Record the display and confirm the model

    • Photograph or write down the exact display before changing anything: PF, FLASHING :.
    • Confirm the complete Amana model number and compare the display with the owner documentation for that exact microwave because code sets vary by platform.

  2. Clear the power-failure indication

    • On applicable models, touch Cancel/Off or Cancel to stop the blinking indication.
    • Reset the time-of-day clock if your model requires it after a power interruption, using the owner manual for the exact control sequence.

  3. Watch for a persistent or repeating power problem

    • If the display clears and the microwave otherwise operates normally, no internal repair is indicated by PF alone.
    • If PF or the flashing colon keeps returning without a known outage, stop repeated resets and have the home electrical supply evaluated by a qualified electrician as Amana recommends.

Actions not recommended

  • Do not remove the outer cabinet, control panel, vent housing, waveguide cover, or any service panel to chase a display code.
  • Do not touch or test the high-voltage capacitor, transformer, inverter, magnetron, internal fuse, interlock wiring, control boards, sensors, thermistors, relays, or internal harnesses.
  • Do not bypass, tape, bridge, defeat, or adjust the door-interlock system, and do not operate the microwave with a damaged or misaligned door.
  • Do not perform live-voltage, continuity, resistance, capacitor-discharge, or internal connector tests as an owner troubleshooting step.
  • Do not replace a keypad, sensor, thermistor, control board, relay board, switch, or other internal part from a display code alone.

When to stop and request service

  • Contact a qualified electrician if PF or the flashing colon continues to flash or repeatedly returns without a known power interruption.
  • Arrange qualified microwave service as well if the unit also shows smoke, a burning odor, repeated arcing, visible door damage, or a repeated breaker trip.

Documented source

Official information reviewed

Our summary is based on manufacturer support material and stays within the limits of that material.

Source reviewed by Appliance Help HQ: September 24, 2026.

Appliance Help HQ is an independent informational site and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Amana.

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