Getting an error code on your high-end Thermador range can be frustrating, but understanding what it means is the first step in fixing the issue. The E1 error code, in particular, refers to a communication problem between the oven’s control board and memory chip.
This guide will explain what causes the E1 code to appear and provide easy instructions for troubleshooting it yourself. From checking wire connections to potentially replacing parts, you’ll learn a variety of methods to diagnose and resolve the error. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be able to get your expensive appliance back in working order.
What Can Cause the E1 Error Code on My Thermador Range?
Seeing an E1 error code pop up on your Thermador oven display can be confusing and frustrating. But don’t worry – this error code usually has a simple explanation.
The E1 code means that the oven’s control board is having trouble getting data from the EEPROM memory chip. Kind of like having a friend who forgets your birthday – the memory chip isn’t giving the control board the right information.
What are some things that can cause this data problem and the E1 error? Let’s break it down:
Power Surges
Have you ever had a storm knock out power in your home? Those electrical spikes and surges can damage appliances like your oven. The sudden blast of extra voltage can corrupt the data flow between the memory chip and the control board.
Loose Connections
Like wires in your home getting loose, the connections between the control board and EEPROM can come unplugged slightly. This creates glitches in communication that show up as E1 errors.
Old Memory Chip
The EEPROM memory chip in your oven has a service life of about 5-10 years. If your range is older, the memory chip could simply be worn out from old age and used regularly.
Control Board Damage
Extreme overheating or electrical damage to the oven’s control board can prevent it from reading data correctly. This is less common but possible.
Steps to Troubleshoot the E1 Error Code
Dealing with appliance error codes can feel overwhelming. However, troubleshooting the E1 error on your Thermador oven is totally doable with some simple steps. Let’s walk through how to diagnose and fix this issue.
Check the Control Board Connections
Loose wires are one of the most common causes of E1 errors. Here’s how to check the control board:
- Unplug the oven or turn off the circuit breaker. Safety first!
- Find the main control board. It will be behind a panel on the back or top of the oven.
- Check where the wires plug into the control board. Wiggle the connectors gently to see if any are loose.
- Look for damaged or cracked wires. Electrical tape can temporarily fix minor wear.
- Make sure the ground wire is securely attached.
- Check that the control board doesn’t look burnt or overheated. That could signal bigger issues.
- Put the panels back on, plug in the oven, and test if the E1 code is fixed.
Confirm the Power Supply Voltages
Abnormal power surges can cause E1 errors, too. Here’s how to test the oven’s power:
- Unplug the oven again.
- Locate where the power cord connects to the control board.
- Use a multimeter tester to check the L1, neutral, and L2 voltage terminals.
- Make sure voltage readings are steady and between 208-240V.
- If voltages are unstable, you likely need an electrician to assess your home’s wiring.
- Replace the access panel before turning the oven back on.
Replace the Faulty Control Board
If connection checks and voltage tests don’t solve the E1 error, the control board itself is likely causing the problem. Replacing it isn’t too difficult:
- Turn off the oven power again.
- Remove the old control board after labeling all the wire connectors.
- Disconnect the wires from the faulty control board.
- Connect the wires to the new replacement control board.
- Securely mount the new board and replace the oven panels.
- Restore power and test if the E1 code is gone. You may need to recalibrate the oven temperature after a control board swap.
Recalibrate the Oven Temperature Sensor
If all else fails, recalibrating the oven temperature sensor can get rid of a stubborn E1 error:
- Initiate service mode – check the owner’s manual for how to do this.
- Adjust the temperature sensor offset option to match the calibration sticker inside your oven.
- Save the changes and exit service mode.
- Test your oven again to see if the E1 error returns.
Also Read: E5 Error Code on a Thermador Range: A Troubleshooting Guide
What To Do If the E1 Error Keeps Happening
You followed all the troubleshooting steps, but the frustrating E1 error code just won’t go away. Now what? Here are a few tips if you can’t seem to fix that pesky E1 problem.
Call an Electrician
If you’ve checked the oven’s wires and connections, the issue could be electrical problems in your home’s wiring. A professional electrician can:
- Evaluate your electrical panel and circuits
- Check for loose wire connections
- Assess if you have abnormal power surges
- Determine if your home’s wiring needs an upgrade
It’s worth the cost to have an electrician rule out any household electrical issues causing the E1 error.
Inspect Internal Wiring
Do you notice any scorch marks inside the oven or smell burnt wires? Damage to internal oven wiring can prevent proper communication between the control board and other components. An appliance repair tech can troubleshoot and replace damaged wires or cables.
Check Oven Parts
Are the oven fan, heating coils, or temperature sensors working properly? A damaged component can disrupt normal operations and cause error codes. A technician can test all oven parts and replace anything on the fritz.
Review Wiring Diagrams
If you’re handy, consult the wiring diagram for your specific Thermador model. Follow the wire connections to make sure everything is hooked up correctly between the EEPROM chip, control board, and oven components. Even one wrong connection can cause an E1 error.
Conclusion
Dealing with oven error codes can be so annoying! But now you’re an E1 expert. Let’s recap what we learned:
- The E1 error means the control board can’t get data from the memory chip.
- Causes can be power surges, loose connections, an old memory chip, or control board damage.
- You can troubleshoot the E1 yourself by checking connections, voltages, replacing the control board, or recalibrating the oven sensor.
- If you can’t fix it, call an appliance technician to inspect electrical issues, internal wiring, and oven parts.
With this handy guide, you now have lots of tips to try if that pesky E1 code pops up on your Thermador. No need to panic! Just follow the troubleshooting steps to get your oven bake and roast ready again.