Seeing an F19 error code on your LG oven can be confusing and disruptive to your cooking plans. This code indicates that the oven cannot reach its minimum temperature, typically around 170°F, required for baking and roasting. The problem often lies with the igniter not heating up sufficiently to ignite the gas burner. By troubleshooting components like the temperature sensor, electrical supply, and igniter, many homeowners can fix an F19 error themselves without an expensive service call. This article provides a helpful guide to understanding what causes the F19 code and walking through step-by-step troubleshooting to resolve the issue. With some basic tools and safety precautions, you can likely get your LG oven heating properly again.
Reasons for the F19 Error Code
The F19 error code only shows up for LG double ovens that run on natural gas. This code means the oven cannot reach the lowest temperature it needs to bake or cook food. Here are some common reasons why the F19 error happens:
1. Appears in LG double ovens operating on natural gas
- The F19 error only happens with LG double ovens using natural gas, not electric models.
- Natural gas ovens rely on an igniter to create a flame to heat the oven. Problems with the igniter can cause the F19 code.
2. This signifies the oven’s inability to heat up to a minimum temperature
- The F19 code means the oven cannot reach its lowest bake temperature, which is around 170°F.
- Ovens need to reach a minimum temp to cook food safely and properly. The F19 code means it cannot get hot enough to work right.
3. Often plagues lower oven and exhibits an intermittent pattern
- In LG double ovens, the F19 error usually only affects the lower oven. The top oven often still works fine.
- The error can come and go randomly. The oven may work fine one day but show F19 the next.
4. The weak igniter is a common culprit
- A weak or failing igniter often causes the F19 code. The igniter starts the gas flame.
- If the igniter is too weak, it cannot heat up enough to light the gas, so the oven won’t turn on.
- An igniter that is wearing out may sometimes work and other times not, causing the intermittent F19 code.
What Happens When You See the F19 Error Code
Seeing the F19 error code on your LG oven’s display means there’s a problem with the oven heating up. This error usually shows up when you try to turn on the oven or start cooking. Here are the main things that happen:
The Oven Won’t Heat Up Right
The F19 code means the oven isn’t getting hot enough. The oven might heat up a little bit, but not to the right cooking temperature you set. This could make it really hard to bake cakes, cookies, casseroles, and other dishes that need accurate temps.
It Could Mess Up Your Cooking Plans
Since the oven isn’t heating right, you won’t be able to cook things normally. You might have to stop cooking something halfway through. Or you might have to rearrange when you make a big holiday meal. This can throw off your plans.
It Could Relate to Other Oven Parts and Issues
The F19 code might show up because of problems with other oven parts like:
- Stuck buttons
- Broken temperature sensor
- Weak igniter
It could also mean issues with the oven’s power supply. So, the actual cause could be more complicated.
A Weak Igniter Is Often the Cause
In many cases, the F19 code pops up because the oven igniter is weak. The igniter starts the gas burner. If it’s weak, the gas might not light right to heat up the oven fully. This is a very common reason for the error.
Power Supply Problems Could Be Behind It
Problems with the electrical power to the oven might also make the F19 code show up. If the oven isn’t getting steady, full power then it can’t maintain the right temperature.
Troubleshooting Steps for the F19 Error Code
Dealing with an F19 error code on your LG oven can be frustrating. However, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the issue. By methodically working through each step, you can often fix the problem yourself without calling for service.
1. Checking the Oven’s Temperature Sensor
The temperature sensor monitors the oven’s internal temperature. If it malfunctions, it can cause the F19 error. To check it:
- Remove the oven’s back panel screws to access the internal components. Be sure to unplug the oven first!
- Locate and remove the temperature sensor, which is a small device attached to the back wall.
- Use a multimeter to check the sensor’s resistance. Consult the service manual for the proper range.
- If the resistance is out of spec, replace the sensor. Reassemble the oven, plug it back in, and see if the F19 code clears.
2. Inspecting and Cleaning the Oven Cooling Fan
The cooling fan circulates air to regulate the oven’s temperature. If the airflow is blocked, it could trigger the F19:
- Unplug the oven before inspecting the fan. Safety first!
- The fan is located at the back of the oven. Remove the rear panel to access it.
- Check for dirt, debris, or obstructions that block airflow through the fan.
- Use a soft brush, cloth, or vacuum to clean the fan if needed.
- Replace the rear panel, plug in the oven, and test for normal operation.
3. Verifying the Power Supply
Problems with the electrical supply can also cause an F19 error:
- Check if the circuit breaker is tripped or the switches are turned off. Flip breakers or switches back on if needed.
- Use a multimeter or voltage tester to check the outlet’s voltage. It should match the oven’s rating.
- Make sure the power cord is firmly plugged into the outlet.
- Inspect the cord and wiring connectors for damage. Replace if needed.
4. Resetting the Oven Control Board
Resetting the oven’s computer may clear up an intermittent F19:
- Unplug the oven and leave it off for 5 minutes. This gives capacitors time to discharge.
- Plug the oven back in and see if the error code appears when you turn it on.
- If the F19 persists, the control board is likely not the cause.
5. Checking and Replacing Damaged Wiring
Faulty oven wiring can also produce an F19 code:
- Unplug the oven and remove the back panel to access the wiring.
- Inspect the wire harness for damage, like cracked insulation.
- Replace any damaged wiring. Also, check that connections are tight.
- Reassemble the oven, plug it back in, and verify the error code is gone.
6. Resetting the Oven
As a last resort, reset the oven to factory default:
- Unplug the oven for at least 40 seconds to reset components.
- Plug the oven back in and turn it on to allow initialization.
- Check if the F19 code still appears. If so, the oven needs servicing.
Also Read Common Causes of Oven Bake Element Burnout and How to Prevent Them
Conclusion
Dealing with oven error codes can be confusing and frustrating. However, when an F19 code appears on your LG oven, don’t panic! By learning what causes the code and methodically trying troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue on your own without an expensive service call.
Let’s recap what we learned:
- The F19 code means the oven can’t reach the right temperature. This affects cooking performance.
- Several things can cause an F19 error – a faulty temperature sensor, blocked cooling fan, electrical issues, bad control board, or wiring damage.
- Troubleshoot and safely check components like the temperature sensor, wiring, and cooling fan. Reset electrical power and the control board.
- With some basic tools and safety precautions, many DIYers can troubleshoot an F19 error without professional help.
While frustrating, an F19 code doesn’t necessarily mean a complete oven failure. Don’t immediately call for service if the error appears. Carefully work through the possible causes first. Check the temperature sensor, wiring, fan, and power supply for issues. With patience, you can probably get your LG oven working again.
Does the F19 code keep coming back? If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting tips and the error persists, then it’s time to call a technician. Look for an oven pro with experience fixing LG appliances. With their expertise, they can get your oven heating properly again.
F19 errors happen, but they don’t have to ruin your baking plans. Understand what’s causing the code, try fixing it yourself, and only call a pro when needed. With this approach, you can get cooking again and enjoy delicious goodies from your LG oven.