GE F3 microwave error code
Microwave
GE error code F3 on a microwave means: Key panel open or humidity sensor open — control pad wiring or moisture sensor circuit fault. This guide walks you through the most common causes, step-by-step troubleshooting, and replacement parts that typically resolve F3 on GE microwaves.
Safe to keep using?
Use caution
This issue may worsen during use — limit operation and address promptly.
- • Microwave high-voltage components can retain lethal charge even when unplugged.
Product recalls
5 recalls may affect this product
Samsung Over-the-Range Microwaves Recalled Due to Shock Hazard
Recall date: November 5, 2009
Brand-level match — verify your exact model with the manufacturer.
Hazard: If an installation bolt comes in contact with an electrical component inside the unit and the microwave is plugged into an ungrounded outlet, it could create a shock hazard.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately unplug and stop using the recalled product, and contact Samsung to schedule a free repair.
View official recall noticeGE Recalls Ranges Due to Fire and Burn Hazards
Recall date: April 8, 2009
Brand-level match — verify your exact model with the manufacturer.
Hazard: The wiring in the rear of the range can overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the oven and contact GE for a free repair. Consumers can continue to use the cooktop burners.
View official recall noticeGE Recalls to Inspect and Repair Wall Ovens Due to Fire and Burn Hazards
Recall date: November 18, 2008
Brand-level match — verify your exact model with the manufacturer.
Hazard: The extreme heat used in the self-clean cycle can escape, if the wall oven door is removed and incorrectly re-attached by the installer or the consumer. This can pose a fire and burn hazard to consumers.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately inspect the oven to make sure they do not have an incorrectly re-attached wall oven door, which will not open into the flat position. If the wall oven door is incorrectly re-attached, consumers should not use the self-clean cycle and call GE for a free repair. Consumers can continue to use normal baking or broiling function in the oven until the oven is repaired.
View official recall noticeeStyle Recalls Mini Chef Toy Kitchens Due to Choking and Tip-Over Hazards
Recall date: June 5, 2008
Brand-level match — verify your exact model with the manufacturer.
Hazard: The four pegs supporting the oven shelf and four pegs supporting the refrigerator shelf can pull out of the wood, posing a choking hazard to children. The toy kitchen unit also can tip over, posing a risk of serious injury to children.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled product and contact the firm for a store credit. All known users have been contacted.
View official recall noticeGeneral Electric Recalls Microwave Combo Wall Ovens Due to Fire Hazard
Recall date: December 5, 2007
Brand-level match — verify your exact model with the manufacturer.
Hazard: The door switch in the microwave oven can overheat and ignite plastic components in the control area, posing a fire hazard to consumers. The lower thermal oven does not pose a hazard.
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the microwave oven immediately. Consumers should contact GE regarding their GE/GE Profile micro-oven combo or Transform for Kenmore branded products for their Kenmore unit. GE is offering a free repair or rebate on a new product, a $300 rebate toward the purchase of a new GE brand unit, or a $600 rebate toward the purchase of a new GE Profile brand unit. Transform for Kenmore branded products is offering a free repair or $300 rebate toward the purchase of a new Kenmore brand unit. Consumers can continue using the lower thermal oven.
View official recall notice
Recall data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Verify with your manufacturer.
Likely causes
Many codes resolve with cleaning, resetting, or reconnecting.
Check: Power-cycle the appliance and check for obvious blockages or loose connections.
Est. cost: $0–$0
Wear or electrical failure of an internal part.
Check: If basic checks fail, the faulty component likely needs replacement.
Est. cost: $0–$100
What it means
Key panel open or humidity sensor open — control pad wiring or moisture sensor circuit fault.
How to fix it
- Unplug the microwave and wait at least 5 minutes — high-voltage components can hold a lethal charge even when unplugged.
- Confirm the error code F3 is still displayed after a power reset — hold power for 10 seconds, then restart.
- Check the most common cause for F3: Key panel open or humidity sensor open — control pad wiring or moisture sensor circuit fault.
- Inspect the control pad for stuck keys, damaged membrane switches, and loose ribbon cable connections.
- If basic checks don't clear the code, use our lookup tool for AI-powered diagnosis or contact a qualified technician.
- Reassemble, restore power, and run a test cycle. If F3 returns, the faulty component likely needs replacement.
Call a pro when: Call a technician before opening the cabinet — microwave high-voltage parts can retain a lethal charge even when unplugged. Also call if you smell burning, see sparking, or the code returns after a reset.
FAQ
What does F3 error code mean on a GE microwave?
Key panel open or humidity sensor open — control pad wiring or moisture sensor circuit fault.
What does GE F3 mean?
Key panel open or humidity sensor open — control pad wiring or moisture sensor circuit fault.
Can I fix GE error F3 myself?
Basic resets and stuck-key checks are DIY-safe. Do not open the microwave cabinet or discharge the high-voltage capacitor yourself — call a qualified technician for internal repairs.
Do I need a replacement part for F3?
Not always — some F3 errors are caused by user-fixable issues like clogs or unbalanced loads. Try the troubleshooting steps first.
Other GE Microwave codes
Prevent this problem next time
- Follow manufacturer maintenance schedule
- Address small issues before they worsen
Sources
Manufacturer meaning
Key panel open or humidity sensor open — control pad wiring or moisture sensor circuit fault.
FixApplianceCode guidance
Start with basic checks for GE F3 before ordering parts.
Source type: Part database
Source: ModelPartFinder + FixApplianceCode editorial
Last reviewed: 2026-08-11
Repair guidance is for informational purposes only. We do not guarantee that any fix will resolve your issue, and you assume all risk when following these steps. Terms & disclaimer
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