Imagine you are hungry and want to heat leftovers in your LG microwave. You put your food in, press the start button, and wait for the beep. But instead of hearing the beep, you see a flashing F11 code on the display. What does that mean? And more importantly, how can you fix it?
F11 error on LG microwave means a communication problem exists between the main board and the inverter board, which controls the magnetron. The magnetron is the part that generates the microwaves that cook your food. The microwave will malfunction if the inverter board cannot communicate with the main board.
Several possible causes of the F11 error on the LG microwave include a faulty inverter board, a loose or damaged wire, a power surge, or moisture in the electronics. These causes can affect the performance and lifespan of your microwave and may even pose a safety risk.
Fixing this problem is not too complicated, so I will show you how to troubleshoot and fix the F11 error on the LG microwave using simple tools and steps. Following this guide, you can restore your microwave to its regular operation and enjoy your warm meals again.
How to troubleshoot the F11 error on LG microwave
Before you start fixing the F11 error on LG microwave, you need to ensure that the error is not caused by a temporary or minor issue that can be quickly resolved. Troubleshooting F11 errors on LG microwaves can help you identify the exact cause and location of the problem and save you time and money on unnecessary repairs.
To correct this problem, here are the steps to troubleshoot the F11 error on LG microwave:
Step 1: To reset the microwave, it is recommended to either unplug it or turn off the circuit breaker for a duration of 60 seconds. This will reset the microwave and clear any error codes stored in the memory. Plug the microwave back in or turn it on and see if the error persists. If the error is gone, the problem was likely caused by a power surge or a glitch in the system. If the error remains, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Check the wires and connectors between the central and inverter boards. The cables and connectors are behind the cover at the back of the microwave. You will need a screwdriver to remove the cover and access the wires and connectors. Make sure that the cables are tight, intact, and intact. If you find any signs of wear or tear, replace the wires or connectors with new ones. Reattach the cover and see if the error is fixed. If the error is still there, move on to the next step.
Step 3: Test the inverter board for continuity. The inverter board is a rectangular circuit board attached to the magnetron. You will need a multimeter to test the inverter board for continuity. A multimeter is a device that measures the electrical resistance of a circuit. If the inverter board has continuity, the current can flow through without interruption. If the inverter board does not have continuity, there is a break or a short in the circuit, which prevents the current from flowing. To test the inverter board for continuity, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power to the microwave and remove the cover.
- Locate the inverter board and disconnect the wires from it.
- Adjust the multimeter to the minimum ohms resistance setting.
- To measure the inverter board’s output, make contact with the probes of the multimeter on the terminals. The terminals are marked with letters like L, N, H, and G.
- Check the reading on the multimeter. The inverter board has continuity if the reading is zero or close to zero. The inverter board lacks continuity and needs replacing if the reading is infinite or very high.
How to fix the F11 error on LG microwave
If you have determined that the cause of the F11 error on LG microwave is a faulty inverter board, you will need to replace it with a new one. Replacing the inverter board is not difficult, but it requires caution and care. Here are the steps to replace the inverter board on LG microwave:
Step 1: Disconnect the power to the microwave and remove the cover.
- Disconnect the microwave from the power source by unplugging it from the wall outlet or by switching it off using the circuit breaker.
- Identify the screws that secure the cover and utilize a screwdriver to loosen them.
- Carefully lift the cover off the microwave and set it aside.
Step 2: Locate the inverter board and disconnect the wires from it. Note the position and color of the cables for reconnection later.
- The inverter board is a rectangular circuit board attached to the magnetron. The magnetron is the part that generates the microwaves that cook your food. Depending on the model, it is usually located at the microwave’s top or side.
- The inverter board has several wires marked with letters, such as L, N, H, and G. These wires carry the power and the signals between the main board and the inverter board.
- Utilize a set of needle-nose pliers with care to gently pull the wires off the terminals of the inverter board. Please do not pull the wires by the insulation, which may damage them. Note the position and color of the cables for reconnection later.
Step 3: Unfasten the screws that are holding the inverter board to the microwave and lift the board out of the microwave.
- The inverter board is secured to the microwave by two or four screws, depending on the model. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and keep them in a safe place.
- Carefully lift the inverter board from the microwave and dispose of it properly. Please do not touch the components on the board, as they may contain high voltage or harmful substances.
Step 4: Place the new inverter board in the same position as the old one and secure it with the screws.
- Make sure that the new inverter board is compatible with your microwave model. You can check the part number on the board or consult the user manual or manufacturer’s website for more information.
- Place the new inverter board in the same position as the old one and align the holes with the screws.
- Use a screwdriver to secure the inverter board to the microwave with the screws.
Step 5: Reconnect the wires to the inverter board, following the same order and color.
- Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to reconnect the wires to the terminals of the inverter board. Ensure that the cables are firmly attached and that the colors and the letters match the original configuration.
- Do not cross or twist the wires, which may cause a short circuit or a fire.
Step 6: Reattach the cover and restore the power to the microwave.
- Carefully place the cover back on the microwave and align the holes with the screws.
- Use a screwdriver to reattach the cover to the microwave with the screws.
- Plug the microwave back to the wall outlet and activate the circuit breaker.
Step 7: Test the microwave for regular operation and see if the error is gone. If the error is still there, it may be necessary to seek the aid of a trained technician for additional support.
- Place a cup of water inside to test the microwave and set the one-minute timer. Press the start button and observe the microwave’s display and sound.
- If the microwave usually works and the error is gone, you have successfully fixed the F11 error on LG microwave. Congratulations!
- If the microwave does not work or the error is still there, you may have a more severe problem that requires professional help. Contact LG customer service or a qualified technician for more advice and support.
Conclusion
You have carefully learned what the F11 error means on LG microwaves, what causes it, and how to fix it. By doing as you have been guided, you have saved time and money on unnecessary repairs and restored your microwave to its normal function. Now you can enjoy your warm and delicious meals again without worrying about the F11 error on LG microwave.
Please, I encourage you to share it with your friends and family and leave a comment below. I would love to hear your opinion, feedback and suggestions.
