Whirlpool Microwave FC E1 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as FCE1, FC E2, FCE2, FC E3, FCE3 on some models.
FC E1, FC E2 and FC E3 mean the microwave could not connect to your Wi-Fi router — restart the router and the microwave and check signal strength where it is installed.
What this code means
Whirlpool says the appliance could not connect to the router, possibly due to a connection time-out, poor signal strength, a failed router, the Wi-Fi module in the appliance, or the associated wiring.
Connected Whirlpool over-the-range microwaves.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Router needs restarting | Very common | Yes — no tools |
| Weak signal in the kitchen | Common | Yes — move router or extender |
| Wi-Fi module fault | Less common | No — technician job |
What you can try yourself
- Check a phone gets a strong Wi-Fi signal at the microwave.
- Restart your router.
- Turn the microwave breaker off for one minute, then on.
- Reconnect in the app; call Whirlpool connected support on 1-866-333-4591 if it still fails.
When to call a technician
- Other devices connect fine there but the microwave will not.
- Code returns after restarts.
- Wi-Fi menu unavailable.
Typical professional repair cost: Usually free.
Frequently asked questions
Does FC E1 stop the microwave cooking?
It concerns the Wi-Fi connection; Whirlpool's article covers connectivity only.
How do I fix it?
Restart the router and the microwave, and improve the signal if it is weak.
Who can help?
Whirlpool lists 1-866-333-4591 for connected appliances.
Sources checked
- Whirlpool Product Help: FC E1 - Over-the-Range Microwave
- Whirlpool Product Help: FC E2 - Over-the-Range Microwave
- Whirlpool Product Help: FC E3 - 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.
More: all Whirlpool microwave codes · all Whirlpool codes · search by symptom