Uh oh, seeing an E12 error on your Whirlpool microwave display? Don’t worry, it’s a very common issue, and usually points to a problem with your appliance’s control panel or keypad. Essentially, your microwave thinks one or more of its buttons are stuck or continuously pressed, even when they’re not.
What Triggers This Error?
- A button on the keypad is physically stuck or jammed.
- Moisture or spills have seeped under the keypad, causing a short circuit.
- Wear and tear over time can lead to internal electrical shorts within the keypad membrane.
- A faulty connection between the keypad and the main control board.
- General component failure of the user interface board itself.
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Your Guide to Resolving E12
- Unplug the Microwave: Safety first! Always disconnect power to the appliance before performing any diagnostic or repair work.
- Inspect the Keypad Visually: Carefully examine all the buttons on your microwave’s control panel. Look for any keys that appear to be physically stuck in the depressed position or feel “mushy.”
- Test Individual Keys: Gently press and release each key on the keypad multiple times. Sometimes a button just needs to be “unstuck” from food debris or minor stickiness.
- Listen for Clicks/Feel for Resistance: As you press each key, you should feel a distinct click or resistance and then a clean release. If any key feels permanently pressed or doesn’t spring back properly, that’s a strong indicator of the problem.
- Consider Environmental Factors: Have there been any recent spills or high humidity that might affect the keypad? While not a direct fix, it can confirm the diagnosis.
- Confirm the Shorted Keypad: If you’ve identified a sticky or unresponsive key, or if the error persists after checking all keys, it’s highly probable that the keypad (User Interface) assembly is shorted internally.
- Order a Replacement Part: For the Whirlpool microwave E12 error, the typical solution is to replace the entire User Interface (UI) and Keypad assembly. This unit often comes as one piece.
- Installation (Advanced): Replacing the UI/Keypad usually involves disassembling part of the microwave’s control panel. This can be complex and may require tools like a screwdriver and possibly prying tools. If you’re uncomfortable with this step, professional assistance is recommended.
- Test After Replacement: Once the new User Interface is installed, reconnect power and test all microwave functions to ensure the error is gone and the new keypad works correctly.
Need to replace the User Interface (UI), Keypad? Check prices here: [REPAIR_LINK]