F3E1 Temperature sensor error

moderate

The Whirlpool F3E1 error code on your microwave indicates: Temperature sensor error. This typically requires troubleshooting the temperature sensor system.

Whirlpool Microwave Affects 1 model

What Causes Error F3E1

high likelihood #1

Faulty temperature sensor/thermistor

The sensor has drifted out of range or failed completely, sending incorrect readings to the control board.

medium likelihood #2

Damaged wiring to sensor

The wire harness connecting the sensor to the main board is pinched, corroded, or disconnected.

low likelihood #3

Control board malfunction

The main PCB is not correctly reading the sensor signal, even though the sensor itself is fine.

How to Fix Error F3E1

  1. Step 1: Power cycle the appliance

    Unplug it from the wall for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. This resets the control board and clears transient errors.

  2. Step 2: Locate the sensor

    Check your owner's manual for the sensor location. It's usually a small probe with two wires attached to the evaporator area or compartment wall.

  3. Step 3: Inspect wiring

    Look for pinched, burned, or disconnected wires between the sensor and the control board. Reseat any loose connectors.

  4. Step 4: Test the sensor with a multimeter

    Disconnect the sensor and measure resistance. At room temperature (~77°F), most thermistors read 3,000-10,000 ohms. If it reads 0 (short) or infinite (open), it's failed.

    ⚠️ Unplug the appliance before testing electrical components.

  5. Step 5: Replace the sensor

    If the reading is out of spec, order a replacement thermistor for your specific model. Installation usually requires only a screwdriver.

Parts You Might Need

If troubleshooting doesn't resolve error F3E1, you may need to replace one of these parts:

Thermistor

sensor $10-$25
Find on Amazon PartSelect

Links above are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to Call a Professional

If the error persists after replacing the sensor, or if you're uncomfortable working with electrical components

  • Control board diagnosis requires specialized knowledge
  • Intermittent sensor faults can indicate deeper wiring issues
  • Incorrect diagnosis could lead to unnecessary part replacements

Video Repair Guides

Watch a repair walkthrough for this error code on YouTube:

▶ Search YouTube for "Whirlpool microwave error F3E1 fix"

Models Affected

This error code has been reported on the following Whirlpool microwave models:

WMH31017HZ