GE Microwave F5 — What It Means & How to Fix It
F5 means the humidity sensor reads shorted — the steam sensor is stuck in one state, so sensor-cook cycles lock out.
What this code means
GE defines F5 as a shorted humidity sensor. Instead of tracking steam as food cooks, the sensor reads as permanently connected, which the control board treats as a fault.
F5 shows during sensor/auto programs or at startup and comes back consistently — even in an empty, cold oven.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Humidity sensor failed shorted | Common | no |
| Sensor wiring shorted | Less common | no |
| Moisture ingress into the sensor assembly | Occasional | yes |
What you can try yourself
- Reset the breaker for 30 seconds and retry once.
- If the oven has been in a steamy kitchen, give it a few hours to dry out, then retry.
- If F5 returns, stop using sensor-based programs and call a technician — the sensor and its wiring are inside the cabinet.
- Provide the code at booking so the technician comes prepared to test and replace the humidity sensor.
When to call a technician
- F5 returns after drying time and a full breaker reset
- Sensor-cook cycles fail on a cold, empty oven
Typical professional repair cost: Service visit, typically $100–$250; $0 if drying and a reset clear it.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between F4 and F5?
F4 is the sensor reading open (disconnected); F5 is it reading shorted. Same part, opposite failure modes — same technician fix.
Will F5 clear on its own?
Rarely. If it's moisture-related, drying can help, but a sensor that has actually failed shorted stays failed until replaced.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related GE codes
- GE Microwave F1 F1 means the thermal sensor circuit reads open — or the oven detected excessive heat. Cool it down and try the 30-second reset.
- GE Microwave F2 F2 is a shorted thermal sensor fault — the sensor circuit reads closed when it shouldn't, so the oven locks out.
- GE Microwave F3 F3 means the touch pad is reading as shorted — often a key pressed over 60 seconds or moisture on the pad.
- GE Microwave F4 F4 means the humidity sensor circuit reads open — the sensor that tracks steam during cooking isn't reporting, so the oven locks out.
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