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Error code reference

Electrolux Oven Error Code F31

Shorted RTD sensor probe/wiring problem

Shorted RTD sensor probe/wiring problem: the Appliance Control Board sees the lower oven temperature probe as being a short circuit.

First step from the service manual

Check wiring in lower oven probe circuit for possible open or short condition; check RTD resistance at room temperature and compare to probe resistance chart.

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

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What F31 means on a Electrolux oven

The F31 error code on an Electrolux oven indicates that the appliance control board has detected a short circuit condition in the lower oven RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) sensor probe circuit. An RTD sensor works by changing its electrical resistance in proportion to temperature. At room temperature, a properly functioning RTD probe will read a specific resistance value, and the control board continuously monitors this signal to regulate oven temperature. When the board sees a resistance value that falls below the expected range, it interprets this as a short circuit and triggers the F31 fault.

The most common causes of this fault fall into two categories: a failed RTD probe itself or a wiring problem in the probe circuit. A shorted probe means the sensor's internal resistance has collapsed, sending an out-of-range signal to the control board. Wiring problems include chafed insulation where two conductors are making direct contact, connectors with pins pushed together, or heat-damaged wiring in the oven cavity. The first diagnostic step is to disconnect the probe from the circuit and measure its resistance at room temperature, then compare that reading against the probe resistance chart for your specific model.

If the probe resistance is within spec, the problem lies in the wiring harness or at a connector between the probe and the control board. Carefully inspect the full length of the probe wiring for any signs of heat damage, pinched sections, or melted insulation. If both the probe and wiring check out, the control board itself may be misreading the circuit, though this is the least common cause of F31.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F31

  1. 01

    Shorted RTD probe

    Part replacement

    The lower oven RTD probe itself has failed internally, causing its resistance to drop below the normal range. Disconnect the probe and measure its resistance at room temperature, then compare the reading to the probe resistance chart to confirm.

  2. 02

    Damaged or pinched probe wiring

    Wiring / connection

    The wiring between the RTD probe and the control board may have chafed, melted, or been pinched, allowing two conductors to contact each other and create a short. Inspect the full length of the wiring harness in the oven cavity for visible damage.

  3. 03

    Corroded or shorted connector

    Wiring / connection

    Connectors in the probe circuit can accumulate grease or moisture, or their pins can be pushed together, creating a short circuit path. Inspect and clean all connectors in the lower oven probe circuit, checking for bent or touching pins.

  4. 04

    Heat-damaged wiring harness

    Part replacement

    Prolonged exposure to high oven temperatures, especially during self-clean cycles, can degrade wire insulation until conductors short against each other or against the oven chassis. Look closely at sections of wiring near high-heat areas of the oven cavity.

  5. 05

    Faulty appliance control board

    Part replacement

    If the RTD probe and all wiring test within specification, the control board may be misinterpreting the sensor signal due to an internal component failure. This is the least likely cause and should be considered only after the probe and wiring have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F31

What does F31 mean on a Electrolux oven?
F31 means the appliance control board has detected a short circuit condition in the lower oven RTD temperature sensor probe circuit. The board monitors the probe's resistance continuously, and when the resistance drops below the expected range, it triggers this fault code. The problem can be in the probe itself, the wiring, or the connectors between the probe and the control board.
Can I fix the F31 error code myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can diagnose F31 by disconnecting the lower oven RTD probe, measuring its resistance with a multimeter at room temperature, and comparing that reading to the probe resistance chart for their model. If the probe is shorted, it can be replaced as a relatively straightforward repair. Wiring repairs inside the oven cavity are more involved and may require a technician if the damage is extensive.
Is it safe to use my Electrolux oven when it shows F31?
You should not continue using the oven while F31 is active. The fault indicates the oven cannot accurately monitor the lower oven temperature, which means it cannot regulate heat properly. Operating the oven in this condition could result in overheating or underheating, and in some cases the oven may not function at all until the fault is resolved.
Will resetting the oven clear the F31 code?
Resetting the oven by cycling the power or tripping the circuit breaker may temporarily clear the F31 code, but it will return if the underlying problem is not fixed. The short circuit condition in the probe circuit must be identified and corrected for the fault to stay cleared.
How much does it cost to repair an F31 error on an Electrolux oven?
If only the RTD probe needs replacement, parts and labor typically range from around $100 to $250 depending on the model and local labor rates. If the wiring harness is damaged and needs replacement, costs can range from $150 to $400 or more. Control board replacement, if required, is generally the most expensive repair and can range from $250 to $500 or higher with labor.

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