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Error code reference

Dacor Range Error Code F3

Shorted Oven Sensor alarm

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Shorted Oven Sensor alarm - occurs when the ERC senses a short circuit in the oven temperature sensor for 16 temperature conversions in a row (only displayed during a cooking operation).

First step from the service manual

Press the cancel key; if alarm does not go away, check the oven sensor and wiring.

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

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What F3 means on a Dacor range

The F3 error code on a Dacor range indicates a shorted oven sensor condition detected by the Electronic Range Control (ERC). The ERC continuously monitors the electrical signal from the oven temperature sensor to regulate cooking temperatures accurately. When the ERC detects a short circuit condition in the sensor circuit across 16 consecutive temperature conversion cycles, it triggers the F3 alarm. Importantly, this fault only appears during an active cooking operation, meaning the range must be in use for the ERC to accumulate the required number of failed readings and display the code.

The oven temperature sensor is a resistance-based probe, typically a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) or positive temperature coefficient (PTC) type, mounted inside the oven cavity. Under normal operation, the sensor's resistance changes predictably with temperature, and the ERC interprets these resistance changes to determine the oven's internal temperature. A short circuit in this circuit causes the resistance to drop abnormally low, signaling an unrealistically high temperature to the ERC or producing an out-of-range reading that cannot be processed correctly. This condition can stem from a failed sensor, damaged wiring, or a fault at the connector between the sensor and the control board.

Diagnosis begins by pressing the Cancel key to clear the alarm. If the error returns during subsequent cooking, the sensor and its associated wiring harness must be inspected. A technician should check for pinched, burned, or chafed wires between the sensor and the ERC, inspect the connector pins for corrosion or contact damage, and test the sensor's resistance value at room temperature to confirm it falls within the expected range for the unit.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F3

  1. 01

    Failed oven temperature sensor

    Part replacement

    The sensor probe itself has developed an internal short circuit, causing its resistance to read outside the normal operating range. This is the most common cause and can be confirmed by disconnecting the sensor and measuring its resistance with a multimeter at room temperature.

  2. 02

    Damaged or pinched wiring harness

    Part replacement

    The wires connecting the oven sensor to the ERC can become pinched, burned near the oven cavity, or chafed against metal edges over time, creating a short to ground or between conductors. A visual inspection of the full wire run from the sensor to the control board will often reveal the damage.

  3. 03

    Corroded or damaged wiring connector

    Wiring / connection

    The connector joining the sensor wiring to the ERC or to the sensor itself can develop corrosion, bent pins, or contact failures that create an unintended low-resistance path. Inspecting and cleaning the connector terminals or replacing the connector can resolve this.

  4. 04

    Intermittent short from heat exposure

    Part replacement

    High oven temperatures over time can degrade wire insulation near the back wall of the oven cavity, causing insulation breakdown that only presents as a short when the oven is hot and in active use. This explains why F3 only appears during a cooking operation.

  5. 05

    Faulty Electronic Range Control (ERC)

    Part replacement

    In rare cases, the ERC itself may misinterpret valid sensor signals due to an internal board fault, triggering a false F3 code. This should only be considered after the sensor and wiring have been confirmed to be in good condition.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F3

What does F3 mean on a Dacor range?
F3 on a Dacor range indicates a shorted oven sensor alarm. The Electronic Range Control has detected a short circuit in the oven temperature sensor circuit across 16 consecutive temperature readings. This code only appears while a cooking operation is active. It signals that the sensor or its wiring is not functioning correctly and needs inspection.
Will pressing Cancel fix the F3 error on my Dacor range?
Pressing the Cancel key is the correct first step and may clear the alarm temporarily. However, if the underlying short circuit in the oven sensor or wiring is not corrected, the F3 code will return the next time a cooking operation is started and the ERC accumulates 16 consecutive faulty readings. A lasting fix requires diagnosing and repairing the sensor or wiring fault.
Is it safe to use my Dacor range when the F3 code is showing?
You should not continue using the oven while the F3 code is active. A shorted temperature sensor means the ERC cannot reliably monitor or regulate oven temperature, which can result in overheating or unpredictable temperature behavior. It is best to avoid oven use until the sensor and wiring have been inspected and the fault resolved.
How much does it cost to repair an F3 error on a Dacor range?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. An oven temperature sensor replacement typically costs between $20 and $80 for the part, while professional labor can add $75 to $200 depending on your location and service provider. If the ERC board itself is at fault, parts and labor combined can range from $200 to $500 or more. A wiring repair by a technician generally falls in the lower to mid portion of that range.
How do I test the oven sensor when diagnosing an F3 code on a Dacor range?
Disconnect the oven temperature sensor from its wiring connector and use a multimeter set to measure resistance (ohms) across the two sensor terminals. A properly functioning sensor will show a specific resistance value at room temperature consistent with the sensor type installed in your model. An extremely low resistance reading near zero ohms confirms an internal short circuit in the sensor, meaning the sensor needs to be replaced. If the sensor reads correctly, shift your inspection to the wiring harness and connector between the sensor and the ERC.

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