Whirlpool Microwave F1E1 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as F1 E1, F6 on some models.
F1E1 — and a plain F6 — mean the oven could not execute the function, with a possible problem in the relay control board or its wiring; reset power and call service if it repeats.
What this code means
Whirlpool says that with F1E1 and with F6 the oven could not execute the function, and there may be a problem with the relay control board, or the associated wiring. The relay board switches power to the microwave's components.
Whirlpool over-the-range microwaves; two codes, one description.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Relay control board fault | Common | No — technician job |
| Wiring fault | Occasional | No — technician job |
| Glitch | Occasional | Yes — breaker reset |
What you can try yourself
- Breaker off for one minute, then on.
- Monitor for one minute.
- Try heating a cup of water.
- Schedule service if the code returns.
When to call a technician
- Repeat code.
- No heating.
- Fan or turntable runs with the door open — switch off the breaker.
Typical professional repair cost: Typically $200–$400 for a board replacement.
Frequently asked questions
What does F1E1 mean on a Whirlpool microwave?
The oven could not execute the function; there may be a problem with the relay control board or its wiring.
Is F6 the same?
Whirlpool describes the plain F6 code identically.
Can I replace the board myself?
No — microwave internals carry dangerous stored voltage.
Sources checked
- Whirlpool Product Help: F1E1 - Over-the-Range Microwave
- Whirlpool Product Help: F6 - 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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