What could be wrong with your Samsung microwave because it keeps drying out food? You could be dealing with an E11 error code, which signifies a faulty moisture sensor.
Fortunately for you, the E11 error is not complex to fix. You can fix it on your own in about 30 minutes or less.
My goal is to help you figure out what the E11 error code is and how best to fix it to make your Samsung Microwave work better. It all starts by understanding the problem to resolve it correctly.
Note that the E11 error code indicates a moisture sensor problem. Unfortunately, this often leads to undercooking or overcooking of the food. Keep reading to understand how best to fix the error.
What Does e11 Mean on Samsung Microwave?
The E-11 error code on the Samsung Microwave shows the problem with your smart moisture sensor. Note that the sensor is an important part of the microwave as it regulates how the food cooks. If you don’t want it to over or under-cook, you should ensure the sensor works perfectly all the time.
This can happen for many reasons. The most common is that there could be a loose or faulty sensor. The microwave will display an E-11 error code if any of these happen.
However, you must also understand that not all Samsung microwaves have a smart moisture sensor or a humidity control function. The E-11 error code may not be significant in these microwaves.
Find the smart moisture sensor, which is located on the upper side of the behind panel.
It is essential to understand that the sensor measures steam emission during cooking. It then adjusts the time needed to cook the food automatically. This adjustment is based on the said readings. In case it malfunctions, then you can always optimise the cooking settings. This way, you are assured that your food will never spoil due to excessive or undercooking.
Why Does My Samsung Microwave Say e11?
There are many reasons why your Samsung microwave may display this error. For you to resolve the E-11 error on the Samsung microwave, you must first understand why the error occurs to start with. You need to power cycle the unit to help resolve the error. However, it starts with disconnecting it from the power source. You then have to wait for at least 60 seconds before you can re-plug it back.
Please check the loose connections if this fails to fix the error. Also, look out for possible signs of damage. If you identify any of these, you should consider replacing the sensor.
To better understand this, you should consider identifying triggers and possible solutions. Note that an E-11 error will not just appear. I will explore some of the major causes and the easiest fixes to explore.
A glitch in the system
If you encounter any error code on your Samsung microwave, it is important that you first power cycle it. Usually, such error codes are caused by system glitches. Fortunately, such errors are likely to go away once your microwave resets.
Fix – Reset the Microwave
- Unplug your microwave from the power source or turn it off at the circuit breaker.
- Next, keep the microwave unplugged for at least 60 seconds.
- In case of any suspicion that moisture may have gotten into the microwave and caused the glitch, open the door and keep it unplugged for a bit longer.
- Plug your microwave back in and check if your E-11 error is resolved.
2. Loose wiring to the sensor
Note that a loose or damaged connection to the smart humidity sensor is a significant cause of an E-11 error code. It is possible to confirm this by opening your Samsung microwave and inspecting your sensor.
Lucky for you, it’s an easy fix, which you can finish in under 20 minutes, depending on your skills. You also don’t have to remove your microwave from the cabinet.
Fix – fix the loose connection to your smart humidity sensor
- You have to first unplug your microwave before opening the microwave door.
- Next, you must unmount your microwave’s top cover and set it aside. Locate the metal panel that houses the sensor, usually on the upper left side.
- Proceed to remove the screws on the metal panel. You should unlock the panel by pushing the two tabs on the right side.
- After this, use a screwdriver to push the tabs on the left and carefully pry open the panel.
- Carefully remove the metal housing to access the sensor and check for any loose or damaged connections.
- You then need to twist the wires together to restore contact at this stage, utilising electrical tape to secure the connection.
- Reinstall the metal housing and its screws. Mount your microwave’s top cover and secure it with its screws.
- Finish by plugging in your microwave and check if the E-11 error is resolved. If it has not, then you may have to repeat the steps again.
3. Malfunctioning humidity sensor
In case you are dealing with a damaged sensor, then the first thing you need to do is get a replacement for it. Be sure to get a genuine humidity sensor from Samsung to prevent further damage to your microwave.
Instead of going in from the front like the previous fix, this one will require pulling your over-the-range microwave out of its cabinet. Then, we will show you how to remove the top cover and access the sensor.
Fix- Replace a Faulty Sensor on a Samsung Microwave.
- Start by unplugging your microwave. Open the door and remove everything inside.
- Remove the screws mounting the flanges to the cabinet. Then, remove the washers.
- Pull out the microwave from the cabinet and place it on a solid and even surface.
- If its wire isn’t long enough, use a crosshead screwdriver to remove the fixing screws and disconnect the wires.
- Slowly but carefully lift the top cover and slide it forward to remove it.
- Find the intelligent moisture sensor on the left side of the microwave.
- Next, you have to remove its screws and disconnect it.
- You should install the new sensor and lock it with its screws.
- Connect the cable to the control board and tie them together.
- Reinstall your microwave’s top cover and secure it with its screws. Then, return your microwave to the cabinet.
- Reinstall the washers on the flanges and secure the screws.
- Finish by testing if this worked. You need to plug your microwave back in. Turn it on, and check if your fix has resolved the E-11 error.
4. Gas sensor error
This error code may also indicate that the gas sensor in your microwave is not working correctly. Usually, the gas sensor detects flammable gas leaks, such as natural gas or propane. If the gas sensor malfunctions, then your microwave may not operate safely.
Fix 1. Resetting the microwave
The first step in troubleshooting this error is resetting the microwave. You first need to unplug the microwave from the power outlet for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. The moment the microwave is reset, try using it one more time. In case the error code still appears, proceed to the next solution.
Fix 2: Cleaning the gas sensor
- Your gas sensor in your microwave may be dirty or clogged, which can cause it to malfunction.
- Unplug the microwave from the power outlet and remove the door to clean the gas sensor.
- Find the gas sensor, as it will be located on the top or side of the microwave.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris on the sensor.
- Once the sensor is clean, replace the door and plug the microwave back in.
- Consider using it again to see if the error code still appears.
Fix 3: Replacing the gas sensor
If cleaning the gas sensor does not resolve the issue, you should consider replacing the gas sensor. For you to replace the gas sensor, it is vital to contact a qualified technician.
Fix 4: Contact Samsung customer service.
If you have tried all the above solutions yet the error code still appears, you may need to contact Samsung customer services for assistance. They can provide additional troubleshooting tips or send a technician to your home to repair the microwave.
Sometimes, even with all the possible troubleshooting solutions, rectifying the error in a few tries is impossible. In such a case, contacting support for the right help is best. The manufacturers will know what to do, especially if the error is a manufacturing glitch that cannot be resolved as a DIY.
You must also be careful about handling the error if the gadget is still under warranty. Any interference in terms of repairs from DIYs or handymen can be considered something that voids the warranty. Either way, seeking support from the manufacturer is a better option than messing things up.
