Frustrated by your Maytag microwave constantly displaying error codes E11 or E12? Before wasting money on a repair person, try troubleshooting the issues yourself. These common error messages simply mean there is a problem with the microwave’s humidity sensor or inverter.
This guide will walk you through fully diagnosing and fixing the root causes, whether it be a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or defective control board. Just follow the illustrated steps while keeping safety as your top priority. With some straightforward repairs, you can have your microwave cooking again in no time!
Understanding E11 and E12 Error Codes
When your Maytag microwave shows an E11 or E12 error code, it means there is a problem with the humidity sensor. The humidity sensor measures the moisture in the air inside the microwave. It helps the microwave adjust cooking times and power levels.
Let’s break down what each error code means:
E11 Error Code
The E11 error points to an open circuit in the humidity sensor. This means:
- The electrical path has been broken.
- There is no continuous flow of electricity.
- The sensor has lost connection with the control board.
An open circuit is like a cut wire. Electricity can’t travel from point A to point B anymore.
What could cause an open circuit? It’s often a bad humidity sensor. But it could also be damaged sensor wiring or a problem with the control board.
E12 Error Code
The E12 error indicates a short circuit. This is the opposite of an open circuit. A short circuit means:
- The electricity is taking a shortcut.
- Instead of following the normal path, it is jumping from point A to point B.
- This shortcut causes too much current flow in the wrong path.
A short circuit usually means the sensor contacts are touching in the wrong way. Or there could be a wiring issue.
What Triggers These Errors?
So, in summary, here are three common causes behind E11 and E12 errors:
- Bad humidity sensor: The sensor is damaged or worn out. Replacing it should fix the error.
- Damaged sensor wiring: Frays or breaks in the wire disrupt the electric signal. Inspect the wires and repair any damage.
- Defective control board: If the sensor and wires check out, the problem may be on the control board. It might need to be replaced.
Now, let’s move on to some important safety tips when troubleshooting and repairing your microwave.
Staying Safe While Troubleshooting Your Microwave
When your microwave needs repairs, safety should be your top concern. Microwaves contain high voltages that can cause severe shock or injury if mishandled.
Let’s go over some tips to stay safe during troubleshooting and repairs:
- Unplug the microwave first. This cuts off power to avoid getting shocked while working.
- Discharge the capacitor. There is a high-voltage capacitor that holds a dangerous charge. Discharge it through a resistor before touching anything.
- Never run it open. Never operate the microwave with panels removed or parts exposed.
- Don’t bypass safety features. Don’t remove or disable any safety switches or door latches.
- Remove the outer case when unplugged. You’ll need to take off the outer wrap, but only when the microwave is unplugged.
- Use insulated tools. When testing or removing parts, use gloves and tools designed to prevent shocks.
- Check for damage first. Inspect all parts and look for any signs of damage before turning it back on.
- Avoid touching exposed wires or terminals. Make sure to protect yourself from live electrodes.
- Work in a clear, well-lit area. You’ll need ample room and good lighting to see the internal components.
- Review the manual. Follow all precautions and directions from the user guide specific to your model.
- Handle parts gently. Don’t force or damage any components when removing or replacing them.
- Wear safety glasses. Use protective eyewear when dealing with chemicals, dust, or debris.
- Let hot parts cool. Allow any heating elements like magnetron, thermal switch or fuse to cool before handling.
By taking the right safety measures, you can troubleshoot and fix your microwave without getting hurt.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing E11 and E12 Errors
If you see an E11 or E12 error code on your Maytag microwave, don’t panic! Just follow these steps to diagnose and fix the problem:
Step 1: Remove the humidity sensor
The first step is to access the humidity sensor. Here’s how:
- Unplug the microwave and remove it from the wall or cabinet.
- Take out the grille screws and release the tabs to remove the grille.
- Remove the touch panel screw and lift up the control panel.
- Take out the screws holding the air vent, outer case, and vent plate. Slide these components out.
- Remove the power cord cover if your model has one.
- Carefully slide the outer case back while threading the power cord through the hole.
- Remove the screws that secure the humidity sensor to the air vent.
- Disconnect the wire terminal plug from the sensor.
- Lift out the humidity sensor. Inspect it for any visible damage.
Step 2: Test the humidity sensor
Next, use a multimeter to check the sensor:
- Set the multimeter to measure resistance in ohms (Ω).
- Touch the sensor probes to the sensor terminals.
- A good sensor will show a reading of around 30Ω.
- If the reading is way off, the sensor is likely defective. Replace it.
Step 3: Inspect the sensor wiring
- Check the wiring between the sensor and control board for any fraying, cuts, or loose connections.
- Repair or replace damaged wiring as needed.
- As a last resort, replace the control board if the wiring checks out okay.
And that’s it! With a new sensor, repaired wiring, or replaced control board, your E11 or E12 error should be fixed. Just reassemble everything carefully to get your microwave working again.
Also Read: 5 Easy Ways to Dispose of a Broken Microwave
Wrapping Up
In this article, we went through what the E11 and E12 error codes mean on a Maytag microwave. We also covered safety tips and a full troubleshooting guide. Let’s recap the key points:
- E11 indicates an open circuit in the humidity sensor.
- E12 signals a short circuit in the sensor.
- Causes can be a bad sensor, damaged wiring, or a control board issue.
- Always unplug and discharge the capacitor before working on a microwave.
- Use insulated tools and gloves when testing components.
- Check for visible damage before turning the power back on.
- To diagnose, remove, and test the humidity sensor.
- Inspect wiring and replace the control board if needed.
Troubleshooting microwave errors like E11 and E12 takes patience and care. But you can absolutely do it yourself safely with the right precautions. Just follow each step closely while putting safety first.
With a bit of handy work, you’ll have your Maytag microwave humming along again. No need to panic over error codes! Just take it step-by-step using the guidance above.