F2 error on a GE microwave: A troubleshooting guide

As convenient as microwaves are, they can quickly turn into a headache if they display an error message and refuse to work when we want them to. If you have a GE microwave, one of the errors that can show up is an F2, which usually means there’s an issue with the thermal sensor.

Let’s unpack this error message so you can get back to heating up your meal.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your GE microwave, 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.

What does the F2 error code mean?

The F2 display likely indicates a problem with the thermal sensor – also known as a thermistor – inside your GE microwave oven. Specifically, it means the thermal sensor is detecting a short circuit rather than normal temperature readings from the internal cooking cavity.

The thermal sensor is mounted on the microwave oven cavity wall and protrudes into the space. It’s usually inserted into a plastic housing that’s attached to the right cavity wall.

The thermal sensor monitors the air temperature in the cavity where food cooks. The sensor feeds this data back to the microwave’s main control board. But a short in the sensor or wiring can cause incorrect temperature signals to the control board.

Safety precautions

Microwaves contain high-voltage parts and can store voltage even when they’re disconnected from a power source. Please be very careful while working on a microwave’s internal parts to avoid electrocution, which has the potential to cause serious injuries or death.

• Always unplug the microwave before troubleshooting or making repairs.
• Discharge the high-voltage capacitor before working on high-voltage parts to eliminate the risk of electric shock.
• Never attempt to run the microwave while its casing is open or when internal parts are exposed. Always completely reassemble the microwave before testing or using it.
• Never attempt to bypass any microwave safety features.
• With the microwave unplugged, remove the outer case to gain internal access.
• Wear insulating gloves and use insulated tools when testing any parts.
• Check all parts for damage before reassembling and powering up the microwave again.
• 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.
• 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.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.

Read more: How To Clean A Microwave Grease Filter

Troubleshooting steps

Step 1 – Check the inner cavity

Examine the interior microwave cavity to see if there’s any damage like an electrical arc, rust, or spilled liquids that may have caused a short in the thermal sensor wiring. If you find any issues, fix them before replacing the sensor.

Step 2 – Inspect the thermal sensor

1. Unplug the microwave and remove the exterior panels.
2. Find the thermal sensor.
3. Closely look over the sensor for any signs of damage.
4. Make sure the sensor is fully seated in the plastic housing on the cavity wall.
5. Inspect the connecting wires for cracks, burns, or pinches that could cause a short circuit.

If you find any damage to the sensor, housing or connecting wires, replace the sensor.

Read more: How to Protect Your Appliances in a Power Outage

Step 3 – Test the thermal sensor

1. Make sure the microwave is unplugged.
2. Disconnect the thermal sensor wires from the control board.
3. Use a multimeter to check the sensor’s resistance. Set the meter to the ohms (Ω) setting, then place the meter probes across its terminals. The meter should show between 224K to 310K Ohms on the high thermistor side and 112K to 115K Ohms on the low thermistor side (if both are present on your appliance). If there’s no resistance measurement, the thermal sensor has shorted and needs to be replaced.
4. Plug the microwave back in.
5. Run a short test cycle (around 15 seconds) with a small bowl of food or water and see if the F2 code still appears without the sensor connected. If it does, then the short is on the control board, which would need to be replaced. If the F2 error disappears, the short is in the external sensor wiring, which would need to be replaced.

Read more: How To Use A Multimeter To Check Appliance Parts

Step 4 – Test the microwave

1. Once you’ve replaced the faulty part, plug in the microwave and power it on.
2. Check the display to see if the F2 error has disappeared.
3. Initiate a 30-second microwave cooking time with a small bowl of food or water to make sure the microwave is working correctly.

Read more: 9 safety tips for using a microwave

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your GE microwave 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.

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