Whirlpool Cooktop FC LF — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as FC LR, FC RF, FC RR on some models.
FC LF, FC LR, FC RF and FC RR each point to one hotplate (element) or its wiring — the two letters name the position, such as LF for left front; reset power and call service.
What this code means
Whirlpool says there may be a problem with the named hotplate (cooking surface/burner/element), or the associated wiring: left front for FC LF, right front for FC RF, right rear for FC RR. Its FC LR article repeats the left-front wording, though the code letters indicate left rear.
Whirlpool electric and induction cooktops. Check which element actually fails to heat.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Element failed | Common | No — technician job |
| Element wiring fault | Occasional | No — technician job |
| Glitch | Occasional | Yes — breaker reset |
What you can try yourself
- Stop using the element named by the code.
- Breaker off one minute, then on.
- Test that element.
- Schedule service; the other elements can usually still be used if they work normally.
When to call a technician
- Repeat code.
- Element stays on or glows unevenly.
- Cracked glass over the element.
Typical professional repair cost: Element replacement typically $150–$350.
Frequently asked questions
What do LF, LR, RF and RR mean?
Left front, left rear, right front and right rear — the element position.
What is a hotplate?
Whirlpool's term for a cooking surface, burner or element.
Can I use the other burners?
Whirlpool does not say; do not use the cooktop if anything behaves abnormally.
Sources checked
- Whirlpool Product Help: FC LF - Electric Cooktop
- Whirlpool Product Help: FC LR - Electric Cooktop
- Whirlpool Product Help: FC RF - Electric Cooktop
- Whirlpool Product Help: FC RR - Electric Cooktop
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 Whirlpool codes
- Whirlpool Cooktop F0 F0 or F00 means an object, liquid or soil is putting pressure on the touch control panel — remove anything on the control area, wipe it clean and dry, and reset power if needed.
- Whirlpool Cooktop F1E0 F1E0 indicates one or more keys are permanently pressed — turn the controls off, clear and thoroughly clean the touch panel, and reset power; if it persists the cooktop control may be at fault.
- Whirlpool Cooktop F2 E1 F2 E1 points to the keys: food, water or build-up may be hindering the controls, so clean the area with soap and water, dry it with a microfiber towel, and reset power.
- Whirlpool Cooktop F1E1 F1E1 means communication has been lost between the user interface (keypad) and the appliance manager board; reset power for a minute and call service if it returns.
More: all Whirlpool cooktop codes · all Whirlpool codes · search by symptom