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Error code reference

GE Microwave Error Code COOL

Displayed when the internal food temperature is below 90°F; the display will track food temperature once it reaches 90°F.

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What the COOL error code actually means

COOL is not an error. It just means your microwave's food probe is plugged in and reading the food's internal temperature, but the food hasn't warmed up to 90°F yet. Once the food reaches 90°F, the display will switch to showing the actual temperature automatically.

Diagnostic procedure

The full COOL procedure

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1
First diagnostic step
Wait for food temperature to rise above 90°F; no action required.
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Most common causes of COOL

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Food is cold or at room temperature
  2. 2Probe inserted just before cooking started
  3. 3Probe not fully seated in the microwave jack
  4. 4Probe positioned in a cold section of the food
  5. 5Faulty or damaged food probe

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Questions people ask about COOL

What does COOL mean on a GE microwave?
COOL is a status indicator that appears when the food probe is connected and reading an internal food temperature below 90°F. It is not an error code and does not indicate a malfunction. Once the food temperature reaches 90°F, the display will automatically switch to showing the actual numeric temperature.
Is it safe to use my GE microwave when it shows COOL?
Yes, it is completely safe. COOL simply means the food probe is active and the food temperature is still below 90°F. The microwave is operating normally and heating the food as intended.
How much does it cost to fix a COOL error on a GE microwave?
Because COOL is not an error, there is typically no repair cost involved. In the rare case where a faulty food probe is causing the display to remain on COOL throughout the entire cooking cycle, replacing the probe is usually the only repair needed. Replacement food probes generally range from around $15 to $40 depending on the model.
How do I fix the COOL display on my GE microwave?
No fix is needed in most cases. Simply allow the cooking cycle to continue and the display will update once the food reaches 90°F. If COOL persists for an unusually long time, verify the probe is fully seated in the jack and that the probe tip is positioned in the thickest, most central part of the food.
Will resetting my GE microwave clear the COOL display?
Resetting the microwave will cancel the cooking cycle and the COOL display will disappear, but this is not necessary or recommended. COOL is a normal part of the probe cooking process and will clear on its own once the food temperature rises above 90°F. Canceling the cycle would interrupt cooking.

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