A GE oven F2 or F20 error means the control detected that the oven exceeded a preset temperature threshold. GE’s guidance is to schedule service. Because an uncontrolled heating condition can create a fire or burn hazard, this is not a code to repeatedly reset and ignore.
What can cause an F2 or F20 code?
- The oven temperature sensor or its circuit is reporting incorrectly.
- A relay or control is keeping a heating element energized.
- Wiring or a connector has been damaged.
- Extreme heat during cooking or cleaning exposed an underlying fault.
- The control itself has failed.
These possibilities require electrical measurements and access to high-voltage components. The code does not prove which part has failed.
Safe steps to take now
1. Turn the oven off
Press Cancel or Off if the controls respond. Keep people away from the appliance and do not open the door if smoke or extreme heat is present.
2. Disconnect power if heating continues
If it is safe to reach the correctly labeled breaker, switch the oven circuit off. Do not remove panels or pull a hot range away from the wall. If there is fire, leave the home and call 911; do not use water on an electrical or grease fire.
3. For gas odors, leave
If you smell gas, do not operate lights, switches, plugs, or phones inside. Leave immediately and contact the gas utility or emergency services from outside.
4. Let the appliance cool
Do not touch elements or attempt testing. Once cool, note whether the code appeared during baking, broiling, or self-clean and record the model number for service.
5. Do not resume cooking
Even if the display clears after cooling or a power interruption, an intermittent over-temperature fault can return.
When to call a professional
GE recommends service for F2/F20. A qualified technician can test the sensor circuit, relays, wiring, and control with power safely isolated. Stop using the oven until it has been diagnosed.
Related oven guides
For inaccurate but controlled temperatures without an error, see oven temperature is wrong. If the oven does not heat, read oven not heating checks. If a cool oven door remains locked, see our oven door locked guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I reset a GE oven F2 error?
Power cycling may clear the display but does not prove the over-temperature cause is gone. GE recommends service.
Does F2 always mean the sensor is bad?
No. The sensor circuit, control, relay, or wiring can produce an over-temperature indication.
Can I test the sensor myself?
Testing requires safe isolation, model-specific specifications, and access near high voltage. Leave it to a qualified technician.
Is it safe to use the cooktop?
On a range, the cooktop and oven can share power or controls. Follow GE or a technician’s model-specific advice before using any part of the appliance.