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Will a Bad Capacitor Cause an F-Code on a GE Profile Oven Range?

The capacitor in your GE Profile oven range stores electrical charges so that it can distribute them to the oven’s electrical components. The error codes on your GE oven or range indicate a variety of problems that sometimes can be related to a bad capacitor. Often troubleshooting these codes can determine whether you have a faulty part or if the capacitor has malfunctioned.
  1. Troubleshooting F0, F1, F5, F6, F7 and F8 Codes

    • F0, F1, F5, F6, F7 and F8 fault codes displaying on a GE Profile oven typically do not mean that the oven’s capacitor is bad. These fault codes display when there is a problem with the keypad, electronic range control (ERC) or the clock. To troubleshoot, press the buttons on the keypad to make sure that none is sticking. If you do not feel the buttons pop in and back out, then they are stuck and the keypad should be replaced. If they are not stuck, unplug your oven and remove the back panel to access the ERC and keypad. Make sure that there are no loose wires and inspect each terminal for signs of burning or damage. Disconnect the ERC and then reconnect it again. Plug the oven back in and wait. If the fault code displays again, then the ERC should be replaced.

    Troubleshooting F2, F3 and F4 Codes

    • An F2 fault code on your GE Profile range indicates that the oven temperature is higher than the set temperature. F3 and F4 codes indicate that there is interference or resistance in the oven temperature sensor, which is malfunctioning and should be replaced. An F4 code also may mean that there is a shorted or loose wire within the oven temperature sensor. To troubleshoot, first make sure that all connections are tight. If they are, then replace the sensor. If this does not clear the fault code, then it’s possible the capacitor has malfunctioned and is not sending the right amount of power to the sensor circuit.

    Troubleshooting F9 and FC Codes

    • An F9 or an FC fault code indicates that there is a problem somewhere in the circuit that operates the door lock. This may be the result of the capacitor not sending enough power to the circuit, but it also may indicate that the circuit itself is faulty and needs repair or replacement.

    Signs of a Bad Capacitor

    • Electrical issues with your oven, such as dimming clock lights, insufficient heat or sparking, indicate that the capacitor has malfunctioned. Because the capacitor distributes the electrical current necessary to perform each function, it is possible that a bad capacitor also can result in an F code on your GE Profile oven. GE recommends that you try to clear the fault code before replacing any parts or calling a technician for service. Sometimes shutting off the breaker connected to your oven or range for 30 seconds will clear the fault or error code. If not, and if troubleshooting also fails to resolve the issue, contact a technician to inspect the capacitor.