How to Troubleshoot F1 Codes on a GE Oven

GE manufactures several oven models that feature a digital clock display, called an ERC. This ERC unit, which is also called an electronic control panel, notifies you of possible problems with your oven’s parts. An F1 fault or error code typically means that there is a problem with either the touch pad or your oven’s ERC unit. While the F1 fault code could be a false alarm, you should troubleshoot the problem to be sure.

Things You'll Need

• Voltmeter
• Screwdriver
• Flashlight

Instructions

Testing the ERC Panel and Touch Pad

1. Press each button on your touch pad to make sure you don’t have any stuck buttons. You should be able to feel each button retract after you push it if they are not stuck.

2. Pull out your stove and disconnect the power to your stove by either unplugging it or turning the power off at the breaker.

3. Loosen the screws on the back panel of your stove with a screwdriver and remove the panel to access the ERC. Some GE oven models have panels secured at the ends and front, as well. For these models, the entire top will typically pop off after you remove these screws to access the ERC.

4. Inspect the wire and the connector for damage. Use a flashlight so that you can see each terminal, as well. If any wire is cracked, torn or damaged, or you see any burn marks on the panel, replace the ERC.

5. Plug the connector back into the ERC panel if there is no damage and attach one probe of a voltmeter to the lead, or L1 wire, and the other probe to the ground wire. The voltmeter should show 120 volts coming into your ERC panel. If you do not have the proper voltage going to your stove, contact an electrician to inspect and repair the electrical connection.

6. Plug your stove back in if the voltage is correct. If you get an F1 error code again and the panel beeps, then you need to replace the ERC. If you do not get the error code again, then the touch pad is stuck or needs replacement.

ERC and Touch Pad Replacement

1. Pull your oven away from the wall and unplug the power cord. Loosen the screws on the upper panel at the back of your oven, using a screwdriver. Set these aside.

2. Remove the upper back panel and loosen the screws that hold the ERC in place, using a screwdriver.

3. Remove the keypad overlay from the old ERC, using a utility knife to carefully lift the edge and then pull it off. To install a new touch pad membrane only, remove the old keypad overlay from the existing ERC and apply the new overlay in its place. If you are replacing the ERC, apply the old keypad overlay onto the front of the new ERC.

4. Position the new ERC onto the back of the stove in the same location as the old one and secure it using the mounting screws you removed from the old ERC.

5. Unplug the wires from the old ERC one at a time and transfer these to the proper positions on the new ERC.

6. Reinstall the upper back panel on your stove and insert the screws to secure it in place. Tighten with a screwdriver and reconnect the power to your oven.

References

• Repair Clinic: Oven Control Board Replacement
• Brunswick GA Appliance Repairs: Wall Oven Repair, Stove Oven Repair Maintenance and Tips
• GE Appliances: Range-Oven Error, Fault or Function Codes