Whirlpool Microwave E11 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as E12 on some models.
E11 and E12 point to the microwave's gas sensor — the sensor used for automatic cooking — or its wiring; reset power for a minute, and expect to need a technician if it returns.
What this code means
For E11 Whirlpool says the gas sensor reported a problem to the control board; for E12 that there is a problem with the gas sensor or the associated wiring. The gas sensor detects vapours given off by food so sensor cycles know when to stop — it has nothing to do with household gas.
Whirlpool over-the-range microwaves with sensor cooking.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Gas sensor fault | Common | No — technician job |
| Sensor wiring fault | Occasional | No — technician job |
| Transient error | Occasional | Yes — breaker reset |
What you can try yourself
- Turn the breaker off for one minute and back on.
- Monitor the display for one minute.
- Test with a timed (non-sensor) cook.
- Schedule service if the code returns.
When to call a technician
- Repeat code.
- Sensor cycles end immediately or never end.
- Other E codes appear with it.
Typical professional repair cost: Sensor replacement typically runs $120–$250.
Frequently asked questions
What is the gas sensor in a microwave?
A sensor that detects vapours from food during sensor cooking. Whirlpool names it for E11 and E12.
Does E11 mean a gas leak?
No. It refers to the microwave's own cooking sensor.
Can I still use timed cooking?
If the microwave runs normally after the reset, timed cooking does not rely on the sensor. A persistent code should be repaired.
Sources checked
- Whirlpool Product Help: E11 - Over-the-Range Microwave
- Whirlpool Product Help: E12 - Over-the-Range Microwave
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 Microwave E03 E03 — or a plain F2 — means the keypad reported a problem to the control board; reset power for one minute and call for service if it comes back.
- Whirlpool Microwave SE SE means there is a problem with the keypad (user interface) or its wiring — clean and dry the panel, reset power for a minute, and call service if SE remains.
- Whirlpool Microwave E13 E13 means the oven did not pre-heat correctly, with a possible problem in the appliance control board or its wiring; reset power for a minute and call service if it repeats.
- Whirlpool Microwave E21 E21 means the thermal sensor circuit reported open and E22 that it reported a short — reset power for a minute, and have a technician check the sensor, control board or wiring if it returns.
More: all Whirlpool microwave codes · all Whirlpool codes · search by symptom