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Error code reference

Dacor Microwave Error Code ERROR

Sensor cooking fault

Dacor codesDacor microwave codes

Sensor cooking fault — the humidity sensor has not detected vapor from the food, or the oven does not shut off after sensor cooking, or the door was opened or STOP/CLEAR was pressed during the first 32-second stage of sensor cooking.

First step from the service manual

Perform the water load cooking test with 200 ml of tap water using the sensor cooking sequence. If ERROR appears after 5 minutes, the humidity sensor is normal — check other parts. If ERROR appears sooner or the oven does not turn off, replace the humidity sensor or check the control unit using the dummy resistor circuit test.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What ERROR means on a Dacor microwave

The ERROR code on a Dacor microwave indicates a sensor cooking fault tied to the humidity sensor system. This sensor monitors water vapor released by food during cooking. Three distinct conditions trigger this code: the humidity sensor fails to detect any vapor within the expected timeframe, the oven continues running without shutting off after sensor cooking completes, or the user opens the door or presses STOP/CLEAR during the critical first 32-second initialization stage of a sensor cooking cycle. All three conditions signal a breakdown in the feedback loop between the humidity sensor and the control unit.

The humidity sensor works by detecting rising moisture levels inside the cavity. During sensor cooking, the microwave enters a monitoring phase where it waits for vapor detection before calculating the remaining cook time. If the sensor is fouled, degraded, or has failed electrically, it cannot send an accurate signal to the control unit. Conversely, if the control unit cannot properly interpret sensor input, the oven may fail to shut off even when vapor is present. The 32-second window at the start of a cycle is particularly sensitive because the control unit uses this period to establish a baseline reading.

Diagnosis relies on a water load test using exactly 200 ml of tap water run through the sensor cooking sequence. If ERROR appears after 5 minutes, the humidity sensor itself is functioning and the fault points toward the control unit or associated wiring. If ERROR appears in less than 5 minutes or the oven fails to shut off, the humidity sensor is the most likely failed component. A dummy resistor circuit test can further isolate whether the control unit is processing sensor signals correctly.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of ERROR

  1. 01

    Failed or degraded humidity sensor

    Part replacement

    The humidity sensor may have worn out or become contaminated, preventing it from detecting vapor accurately. This is confirmed when ERROR appears in less than 5 minutes during the 200 ml water load cooking test.

  2. 02

    User interruption during the 32-second initialization stage

    Wiring / connection

    Opening the door or pressing STOP/CLEAR during the first 32 seconds of a sensor cooking cycle will immediately trigger ERROR. This is a usage issue rather than a component failure and does not necessarily indicate a hardware problem.

  3. 03

    Control unit fault

    Part replacement

    If the 200 ml water load test runs for 5 minutes before ERROR appears, the humidity sensor is working correctly and the control unit is likely misprocessing the sensor signal. A dummy resistor circuit test is used to confirm this diagnosis.

  4. 04

    Wiring or connection issue between sensor and control board

    Wiring / connection

    Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring between the humidity sensor and the control unit can interrupt the signal path, causing false or absent readings that trigger the fault code.

  5. 05

    Heavy grease or residue fouling the sensor

    Wiring / connection

    Built-up grease or food residue near the humidity sensor can block vapor from reaching it, causing the sensor to report no moisture even when food is actively cooking. Cleaning the cavity thoroughly may resolve this before any parts are replaced.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about ERROR

What does ERROR mean on a Dacor microwave?
ERROR on a Dacor microwave indicates a sensor cooking fault. It triggers when the humidity sensor does not detect vapor from food, when the oven fails to shut off after sensor cooking completes, or when the door is opened or STOP/CLEAR is pressed during the first 32 seconds of a sensor cooking cycle. The fault points to either the humidity sensor itself or the control unit.
Can I fix the ERROR code on my Dacor microwave myself?
Some causes are DIY-friendly. If the error was triggered by opening the door or pressing Stop too early, simply restart the sensor cooking cycle and avoid interrupting it during the first 32 seconds. Cleaning grease buildup from the oven cavity is also something most homeowners can do. Replacing the humidity sensor or diagnosing the control unit with a dummy resistor circuit test requires more technical experience and comfort working with appliance electronics.
Is it safe to use my Dacor microwave while it shows the ERROR code?
Standard timed cooking functions are generally unaffected by a sensor cooking fault, but the sensor cooking feature cannot be relied upon when this error is active. Using sensor cook modes with a faulty sensor could result in undercooked or overcooked food. It is best to resolve the fault before continuing to use sensor-dependent cooking programs.
Will resetting my Dacor microwave clear the ERROR code?
Pressing STOP/CLEAR will cancel the active sensor cooking cycle and clear the display, but it does not fix the underlying fault. If the humidity sensor is degraded or the control unit has a problem, ERROR will return the next time sensor cooking is attempted. A proper diagnostic test, starting with the 200 ml water load cooking test, is needed to identify the actual cause.
How much does it cost to repair a Dacor microwave showing the ERROR code?
Repair costs vary depending on the failed component. A replacement humidity sensor typically falls in a lower cost range, while a control unit replacement is significantly more expensive due to part cost and labor. Professional diagnosis fees may apply on top of parts and labor. Getting a service estimate before committing to repair is advisable, especially if the control unit is suspected.

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