Dacor Microwave F2 Error: Temp sensor fault
This dacor microwave f2 error code guide explains what this fault means for your Dacor appliance and how to respond safely. What F2 Means on a Dacor Microwave The F2 error code indicates a temperature sensor fault on Dacor microwave models including the DMW2420 and DCM24. The cavity thermistor is sending a reading that falls […]
~20%
DIY Fixable
From $200
Typical Repair Cost
30-60 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. Thermal protection tripped due to overheating. Allow full cool-down before any further use.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. After cooling for 30 minutes with the door open, power cycling usually clears F2.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Code returns immediately after power reset, Microwave runs unusually hot on exterior surfaces.
Symptoms You May Notice
Auto-cook programs produce unevenly heated food
Sensor-based cooking modes like reheat or defrost run for incorrect durations because the cavity thermistor sends wrong temperature data, resulting in cold centers or overheated edges.
Microwave runs full power without temperature regulation
The unit heats at maximum power without cycling down, because the control board cannot read cavity temperature and defaults to continuous magnetron operation.
F2 appears after selecting a sensor cook mode
Choosing a sensor-based program like auto-defrost or auto-reheat triggers F2 immediately because the board detects the thermistor is out of range before starting the cycle.
Cook time estimates are wildly inaccurate
The time-remaining display during sensor cooking jumps erratically or shows much longer times than expected because temperature feedback is unreliable.
Possible Causes
Failed cavity thermistor
The NTC thermistor mounted inside the microwave cavity has drifted out of its calibrated resistance range due to age or contamination from food splatters.
Requires ProfessionalCorroded thermistor wiring connector
The connector between the thermistor and the control board has corroded from moisture exposure inside the cavity, creating a high-resistance joint that skews readings.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Test with manual (timed) mode
Try heating a cup of water for 60 seconds using manual time mode (not a sensor program). If it heats normally, the magnetron works and the fault is limited to the temperature sensor.
Manual time mode bypasses the thermistor entirely, so successful heating confirms the fault is sensor-specific.
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2
Reset power to clear the fault
Unplug the microwave or turn off the breaker for 5 minutes. Restore power and test a sensor cook program to see if F2 recurs.
If F2 only appears after the cavity has been cold for hours (like overnight), the thermistor may be failing only at lower ambient temperatures.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Thermistor resistance reading is out of specification when tested with a multimeter
- Wiring harness shows heat damage or melting
- Sensor replacement requires accessing interior cavity components
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