Maytag Cooktop F5 Error: Element relay fault
What Does Maytag Cooktop Error Code F5 Mean? F5 on a Maytag MEC-series electric radiant cooktop indicates an element relay fault. The Maytag MEC control board switches power to each radiant element through a high-current relay on the main board. The board monitors element current after each relay command to confirm the relay opened or […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. F5 indicating a stuck-closed relay is a fire hazard and the cooktop must not be used. F5 from a stuck-open relay means the affected burner is non-functional, but the safety hazard is lower — remaining burners may be used with caution if the faulted zone cannot be accidentally activated.
Can I reset the code?
No. A breaker reset does not repair welded relay contacts or a failed relay driver. F5 returns as soon as the board checks the relay state on the next use attempt. Main control board replacement is required.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Element continues to heat with the panel showing it as off — shut the breaker off immediately, Smoke, burning odor, or discoloration of the glass near the affected burner.
Symptoms You May Notice
Element does not heat when selected
On a stuck-open relay, the affected Maytag MEC burner accepts a power-level input and the display shows the selected setting, but the element produces no heat. The hot-surface indicator does not illuminate.
Element continues to heat after being turned off
On a stuck-closed (welded) relay, the radiant element remains hot even after it is switched off from the touch panel. The hot-surface indicator stays illuminated indefinitely.
F5 appears shortly after attempting to use or shut off the element
The Maytag MEC control board performs a relay feedback check by sampling element current. If the measured state does not match the commanded state, F5 is set within a few seconds.
Hot-surface indicator stays off
The hot-surface warning light never illuminates, confirming the element is not receiving power.
Possible Causes
Welded element relay contacts on the main control board
The relay contacts that switch high current to the radiant element have welded closed from years of switching inrush currents, particularly on large 2400 W or 3000 W rear elements. A welded relay cannot open and the element remains permanently powered.
Requires ProfessionalFailed relay coil or driver transistor on the control board
The relay coil or the transistor that energizes it has failed open, leaving the relay permanently de-energized and the element unable to receive power — a stuck-open condition.
Requires ProfessionalCurrent-sense circuit misreading element load
A faulty current transformer on the Maytag MEC main board reports incorrect element current, triggering a false F5 even though the relay itself is functioning correctly.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Shut off the circuit breaker immediately if the element is stuck on
If the Maytag MEC burner continues to produce heat after being turned off from the panel, switch off the circuit breaker at the main panel immediately. Do not wait for the element to cool first — remove any cookware from the affected burner before approaching the glass, or use an oven mitt.
A stuck-closed relay is a fire and burn hazard. Do not restore the breaker or attempt further diagnosis with the cooktop powered until a service technician confirms the fault.
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2
Confirm whether the relay is stuck open or closed
If F5 appeared because the element would not heat (stuck open), the fault is less immediately dangerous — note which burner is affected and schedule service. If the element stayed on after being switched off (stuck closed), leave the breaker off until service.
Providing the technician with both the burner position and the failure mode (element would not heat vs. element would not turn off) helps them bring the correct replacement board on the first visit.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Main control board replacement resolves F5 permanently
- Welded relay contacts confirmed on visual bench inspection of the board
- F5 persists after board replacement — rare, but indicates current-sense circuit wiring fault
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