Whirlpool Microwave SE — What It Means & How to Fix It
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.
What this code means
Whirlpool states that with SE there is a problem with the keypad (user interface) or the associated wiring. The published remedy is the one-minute power reset.
Whirlpool over-the-range microwaves.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Key held down or shorted | Common | No — technician job |
| Grease, steam or cleaner on the keypad | Common | Yes — wipe and dry |
| Wiring fault | Occasional | No — technician job |
What you can try yourself
- Clean the keypad gently and dry it completely.
- Breaker off for one minute, then on.
- Monitor for one minute.
- Call for service if SE is displayed again.
When to call a technician
- SE returns.
- Buttons unresponsive.
- Display stuck.
Typical professional repair cost: About $150–$350 for a keypad replacement.
Frequently asked questions
What does SE mean on a Whirlpool microwave?
A problem with the keypad (user interface) or the associated wiring.
Could steam from the stove cause SE?
Whirlpool does not say. Drying the panel is a harmless first step on an over-the-range unit.
How do I reset it?
Turn the circuit breaker off for one minute and back on.
Sources checked
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 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.
- 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.
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