Dacor Oven Error Code F3 — Oven Temperature Sensor Short Circuit
What this means
Error code F3 on Dacor ovens indicates the oven temperature sensor circuit has a short — the resistance reading is abnormally low, suggesting the sensor leads are touching each other or the sensor element has failed in a low-resistance state. This is the counterpart to F1 (open circuit). A shorted sensor tells the control board the oven is much hotter than it actually is, which prevents the oven from heating because the board thinks target temperature is already exceeded.
Alternate codes: F03, Error F3
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsReset the oven
Turn off the breaker for 3 minutes and restore power. If F3 clears, moisture or a temporary wire contact may have caused the short. Monitor for recurrence.
If F3 appeared after cleaning the oven or during a high-humidity situation, moisture on the sensor connections is the likely cause.
Test the sensor resistance
Turn off power. Disconnect the sensor at the control board connector. Test the sensor leads — they should read about 1,080–1,100 ohms at room temperature. A reading near zero confirms a short in the sensor or wiring.
Test resistance at both ends — at the sensor and at the control board connector — to determine if the short is in the sensor itself or the wiring.
Inspect the wiring
Check the sensor wires for melted insulation, pinched wires, or areas where bare wires may be touching each other or the oven frame. The area where wires pass through the oven wall is most susceptible to heat damage.
On Dacor wall ovens, the wiring route may pass close to the broil element. Check for heat damage in this area.
Replace the sensor or repair wiring
If the sensor is shorted, replace it. If the wiring is shorted, repair or replace the damaged section using high-temperature rated wire and connectors. Restore power and verify F3 has cleared.
Use ceramic wire nuts or high-temperature crimp connectors for any wire repairs inside the oven cavity — plastic components will melt.
When to call a professional
If the sensor and wiring are repaired but F3 persists, the control board may have a damaged input circuit. Dacor control boards are expensive and should be diagnosed before replacement.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
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