Whirlpool Microwave E61 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as E62, E63 on some models.
E61 means the oven sensor circuit reported open, and E62 or E63 that it reported shorted; reset power for a minute and call a technician if the code returns.
What this code means
Whirlpool says E61 is the oven sensor circuit reporting an open condition to the control board, and E62 and E63 a shorted condition. For all three there may be a problem with the sensor, the appliance control board, or the associated wiring.
Whirlpool over-the-range microwaves.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Oven sensor failed | Common | No — technician job |
| Sensor wiring fault | Common | No — technician job |
| Control board fault | Occasional | No — technician job |
What you can try yourself
- Reset power at the breaker for one minute.
- Monitor the display for a minute.
- Verify the microwave operates.
- Schedule service on a repeat.
When to call a technician
- Repeat code.
- Sensor cooking fails.
- Microwave stops early.
Typical professional repair cost: About $120–$300.
Frequently asked questions
What do E61, E62 and E63 mean?
E61 is an open oven sensor circuit; E62 and E63 are a shorted oven sensor circuit.
Can I clean the sensor?
It is inside the cabinet; do not open a microwave yourself.
Will a reset help?
It can clear a one-off reading. Whirlpool lists it as the first step.
Sources checked
- Whirlpool Product Help: E61 - Over-the-Range Microwave
- Whirlpool Product Help: E62 - Over-the-Range Microwave
- Whirlpool Product Help: E63 - 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 E11 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.
- 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.
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