F2
GE Microwave
Severity: CriticalWhat Does This Error Mean?
GE microwave error F2 means the thermal sensor has a short circuit — it is conducting when it should not be, causing the control board to read an impossibly high temperature. Like F1, the microwave will not operate while F2 is active because temperature monitoring has failed. A power reset sometimes clears a one-off F2; a recurring error requires professional repair.
Affected Models
- GE Profile Microwave
- GE Cafe Microwave
- GE Spacemaker
- GE JES Series
- GE JVM Series Over-the-Range
Common Causes
- Thermal sensor component has failed and is permanently shorting its output
- Thermal sensor wiring has shorted to the microwave chassis due to insulation damage
- Moisture or grease inside the sensor connector bridging the contacts
- Carbon deposits from burned food shorting the sensor wiring inside the cavity
- Power surge causing a short circuit in the sensor circuit on the control board
How to Fix It
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Unplug the microwave for 30 seconds and power it back on.
A power reset clears transient faults. If F2 disappears after the reset and does not return during normal use, the fault was likely a momentary static discharge or a brief overcurrent condition.
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Check the inside of the microwave cavity for grease buildup or carbonised food residue, particularly on the top and sides where the sensor is mounted.
Heavy grease and carbon deposits can bridge sensor contacts and trigger a short circuit reading. Unplug the microwave and wipe the cavity thoroughly with a damp cloth. Dry completely before powering back on.
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If F2 persists after cleaning and a reset, the thermal sensor has a confirmed short circuit — do not continue using the microwave.
F2 and F1 are paired errors for the same sensor: F1 is an open circuit, F2 is a short circuit. In both cases the machine cannot safely monitor cavity temperature, and the sensor must be professionally replaced before the microwave is used.
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Contact GE Appliances support or an authorised appliance repair technician for sensor replacement.
Provide your full model number (found inside the door frame) when contacting support. Do not attempt to access the sensor yourself — it is located near the magnetron, which retains high-voltage charge even when unplugged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can burning food inside a microwave cause F2?
Yes — carbonised food creates a conductive deposit that can bridge sensor contacts inside the cavity. If F2 appeared after food burned or sparked inside the microwave, thorough cleaning of the cavity interior is the first step before attempting a reset. Burning food also leaves a strong odour and visible scorch marks that confirm this as the cause.
Is F2 dangerous to ignore?
Yes — without a functioning thermal sensor, the microwave has no protection against the cavity overheating. A stuck magnetron relay or ventilation blockage that would normally trigger an automatic shutoff will go undetected when F2 is active. Do not use the microwave until F2 is resolved.