Encountering an Er31 error on your GE induction cooktop’s display typically points to an issue with its filter boards. Here’s a guide to help you address this error and potentially fix the issue without a service call.
What Does the Er31 Error Indicate?
The Er31 error generally appears when one filter board isn’t properly configured to operate in sync with the other. This misalignment can interfere with the cooktop’s ability to filter and manage electrical signals. Configuration errors may have altered or unset the necessary settings, causing communication conflicts between the filter boards and triggering the Er31 error.
In some cases, loose connections, damaged wiring, or other electrical issues may also disrupt the communication between filter boards.
Quick Tip: To retrieve stored error codes on your GE induction cooktop, press the Timer On/Off and Control Lock buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds. Error codes will display for the specific element that is experiencing an issue.
Safety Precautions
When troubleshooting any electrical appliance, safety should be your top priority. Here are essential safety guidelines to follow:
- Disconnect Power: Always unplug your appliance or turn off the circuit breaker before performing any maintenance to eliminate the risk of electric shock.
- Allow Cooling Time: If your cooktop was recently in use, let it cool down completely before beginning any repairs.
- Take Your Time: Work carefully and patiently to avoid accidents. Rushing can lead to mistakes.
- Good Lighting: Ensure you’re working in a well-lit space for better visibility and access to appliance parts.
- Clear Workspace: Keep your work area free from clutter, and keep children and pets away from the area to prevent distractions or accidents.
- Dry Hands and Workspace: Never handle internal parts with wet hands, and ensure your workspace is dry.
- Check the Manual: Review your user manual for any specific installation or safety guidelines related to your appliance.
- Gentle Handling: Handle parts carefully. Excessive force can damage components or lead to injury.
- Protective Gloves: Wear insulated work gloves to shield your hands from sharp edges or debris.
- Handle Wires Safely: Avoid direct contact with exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use non-conductive tools or wear insulating gloves.
- Document Connections: Before disconnecting wires or terminals, take photos or make notes to make reassembly easier.
- Testing Voltage: If you’re not experienced with using a multimeter, avoid testing live voltage to prevent short circuits.
Following these steps can help you safely address the Er31 error on your GE induction cooktop. By staying cautious and attentive, you might just solve the issue without needing a professional technician.
Also read 5 DIY Fixes for Minor Glass Cooktop Cracks
How to Fix the Er31 Fault Code on GE Induction Cooktop
- Make sure the range is plugged in.
- Press and hold the “Timer Up” key.
- While holding the “Timer Up” key, press and release the “RF On/Off” key.
- While holding the “Timer Up” key, press and release the “LF On/Off” key.
- Release the “Timer Up” key.
- Allow the display to scroll horizontal bars and produce a beeping sound.
- Check if the Er31 error has been resolved.
- If the error persists, proceed with replacing the filter board.
Replacing the Filter Board
- Ensure the cooktop is disconnected from the power source.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the external screws on all four sides of the burner box.
- Lay down a towel or padded surface to protect the glass surface.
- Gently lift the glass surface off the burner box and place it on the towel.
- Access the terminated element wires connected to the generator board.
- Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws holding these wires in place.
- Carefully lift the element connectors from the generator board.
- Remove the heating elements from their locating pegs.
- Remove the screws holding the shield to the generator modules.
- Lift the shield partway and detach any ground wire connections.
- Fully lift the shield off the cooktop.
- Locate the filter board and take a photo of the wiring colors and positions.
- Disconnect the wire connectors on the filter board for the side with the error code.
- Release the locking tabs on the filter board assembly.
- Remove the filter board and replace it with a new one.
Reassembling the Cooktop
- Place the shield back onto the cooktop and align it with the screw holes.
- Reattach any ground wire connections.
- Insert and tighten the screws to secure the shield in place.
- Position the heating elements back onto their locating pegs on the generator board.
- Connect the element connectors to the generator board securely.
- Tighten the screws holding the element wires on the generator board.
- Align the glass surface over the burner box.
- Lower the glass surface onto the burner box until it is properly seated.
- Reinsert the external screws into the four sides of the burner box and tighten them.
- Plug the cooktop back in and test to ensure it is working correctly.
And there you have it! Fixing the Er31 error on your GE induction cooktop might seem a bit intimidating, but with some patience and care, you can tackle it yourself. Just remember to follow safety tips, take your time, and double-check connections along the way.
Hopefully, by following these steps, you’re now back to cooking with no error codes interrupting your day. And if the issue does persist, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Thanks for reading, and happy cooking!