Microwave Error Codes: Samsung, GE and Whirlpool

Microwave error codes are messages from the control board, and on Samsung, GE and Whirlpool models the first step is the same: cut the power for a minute or less and try again. If the code comes back, the microwave needs service, and with a microwave that always means a technician, because the cabinet should never be opened at home. Codes vary by model, even within one brand, so confirm yours in your owner's manual.

Safety first: never open the cabinet

Never remove the microwave's cover or outer cabinet. The Consumer Product Safety Commission warns against do-it-yourself microwave repair because microwaves use high voltage, and the possibility of shock remains even after the oven is unplugged.

That stored charge sits in the high-voltage capacitor, which GE Appliances says can hold a high-voltage charge even after the microwave has been unplugged. Everything below is done from the outside: the plug, the breaker, the door and the keypad.

How to reset a Samsung, GE or Whirlpool microwave

1. Write down the code and the model number.
2. Unplug the microwave. For an over-the-range or built-in model, switch off its breaker.
3. Wait one minute, which covers all three brands (GE's own guidance is 30 seconds). If steam or a spill may have reached the controls, let the microwave dry before you restore power.
4. Restore power and watch the display. Whirlpool says to watch for one minute to make sure the code does not come back. Test with a cup of water, never with the microwave empty.
5. If the code returns, stop using the microwave and book a repair.

Samsung microwave error codes

Samsung publishes the longest list, grouped by part:

• SE (-SE-): a key short error, which points to the keypad. On many displays an S looks like a 5, so SE can read as 5E. If moisture may have reached the controls, let the microwave dry before the reset.
• C-d0, C-d1, C-d2: a door or key error.
• C-20 to C-22, E-21 and E-22: the temperature sensor (E-21 open, E-22 short).
• C-F0 to C-F2 and E-81 to E-83: a communication error. TE is a touch communication error.
• E-36 and E-47: a door open error. Close the door firmly and check that nothing is in the way.
• E-61 and E-62: the humidity sensor (open or short).

Samsung's full list, which also covers gas, steam and weight sensor codes on some models, is on its microwave error code page. Its advice for every code is the reset above, then service if the code returns.

GE microwave error codes, including PF

Seeing PF, 888 or 8888 on a GE microwave is not a fault. GE says it can appear after power is restored, after a new installation, or after the cord was unplugged. Touch Clear or Clear/Off, then reset the clock.

GE's F-codes do point to parts:

• F1: open thermal sensor, due to excessive heat in the cavity.
• F2: shorted thermal sensor.
• F3: shorted touch pad panel.
• F4 and F5: open or shorted humidity sensor.
• F6: shorted temperature probe.
• F10: shorted touch screen.
• Probe: the temperature probe is open or not plugged in during a temperature cook. Push it firmly into the wall jack and the food.
• 18 power watch code: an issue with the electronic control.

GE's code list notes that switching off the breaker or fuse for 30 seconds sometimes clears a code.

Whirlpool microwave error codes

Whirlpool over-the-range models use these. For each F-code, Whirlpool's fix is to switch off the breaker for one minute, restore power and watch for one minute:

• PF or a flashing colon: a power failure, or the clock has been turned off. Press Cancel/Off (or Cancel) and set the clock. If the colon or PF keeps flashing, Whirlpool says to contact a qualified electrician.
• SE and F2E1: the keypad (user interface) or its wiring.
• F2H1: the vent fan and light switch, on the lower left front side panel, or its wiring.
• F1E4 and F7: the microwave could not carry out a function; the appliance control board or its wiring.
• F6: the relay control board or its wiring.
• F3H: the humidity thermistor or its wiring.
• DOOR or OPEN/CLOSE DOOR: not a fault. The door was closed for 5 minutes or more without the microwave being started. Open and close the door firmly, then start a cycle.
• LOC, L or a padlock: the Control Lock is on. Depending on the model, press and hold Cancel for 3 seconds or Start for 5 seconds.

What usually fails

• Keypad or touch panel: Samsung SE, GE F3 and F10, Whirlpool SE and F2E1.
• Control or relay board: Whirlpool F1E4, F6 and F7, GE 18 power watch.
• Sensors: GE F1, F2, F4 and F5, Samsung C-20 and E-61, Whirlpool F3H.
• Door switches and latch: Samsung E-36 or E-47 door codes that return with the door firmly shut.
• Vent fan and light switch: Whirlpool F2H1.

A keypad, board or sensor fault behind a returning code is a job for a technician who works on over-the-range and built-in microwaves. If the display is blank instead of showing a code, see microwave stopped working. If it runs without heating, see microwave not heating.

What it costs in Atlanta

We repair over-the-range and built-in microwaves. The diagnostic is $80, or $120 for a microwave-oven combo, and it is waived when you approve the repair. Repairs start at $180 plus parts, or $250 plus parts for oven-microwave combos, with a written flat-rate estimate before any work begins. When the part is in stock, the repair can often be finished on the first visit, and every repair carries our 60-day parts-and-labor warranty. See our pricing.

Repair or replace?

A countertop microwave is usually cheaper to replace than to repair, and we do not service countertop models. Over-the-range and built-in models cost more and are fitted to your cabinets, so a keypad, sensor or board repair usually makes sense. Our guide to whether a microwave is worth repairing covers the decision.

Schedule a visit or read about our microwave repair service. Prefer to talk? Call (470) 778-4087.