Just learned GE microwaves have a hidden diagnostic mode

I was working on a GE over-the-range model last week in a customer's kitchen and stumbled into this by holding down the '0' button for 5 seconds until it beeped. It shows error codes and even cycles the turntable motor for testing. Anyone else accidentally find secret service menus like this?

2 comments

2 Comments

aarons3619d ago

Found that same mode on a GE microwave at my parents' house last month. Held down '0' by accident and the thing just lit up like a Christmas tree with all these diagnostics. Nice to have an easy way to check the magnetron without pulling the whole unit apart.

piper17519d ago

Worth pointing out these hidden menus can also tell you how many hours the microwave has actually run. Most people don't realize microwaves have a lifespan counter built in. Found out my rental's unit had over 800 hours on it which explained why it cooked unevenly. Checked a display model at the store once and it had 12 hours just from people opening the door. Really puts the "new" in brand new into perspective when you see the actual usage data.