KitchenAid Induction Cooktop Code E_3: cooktop too hot, possibly empty pan

What E_3 means

On KitchenAid induction cooktops like the KICU509 and KICU569 series, E_3 reports a cooktop that is too hot. The control panel shuts off because the electronics have reached too high a temperature. It may also be a reminder to ask whether an empty pan was heated. The display shows E_3 and the zones stop until things cool. Nothing heats while the message stays up on the panel.

Common causes of E_3

An empty pan was left heating on a zone.
Long cooking at high levels raised the internal temperature.
Blocked airflow around the cooktop kept heat in.

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Turn the zones off and move the pans away. 2. Check that no empty pan was heating. 3. Let the cooktop cool completely. 4. Clear the cabinet space and vents around the unit. 5. Reset power at the breaker for a minute and try a lower setting with food in the pan.

! Why to stop there

An empty hot pan is the most avoidable cause and costs nothing to correct.
If food in the pan does not stop the message, the cooling needs inspection.
You see the figure on paper before we begin.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

→Same appliance

Other Cooktop codes

Performance Boost Flashing - Power Level ChangesKitchenAid Induction Cooktop Performance Boost Flashing: power levels change between zones F61KitchenAid Induction Cooktop Code F61: a wide net of touch control, module, wiring and supply Power Level Lower Than Level RequestedKitchenAid Induction Cooktop: power level lower than the level you requested F63KitchenAid Induction Cooktop Code F63: touch control, power module or supply need checking U uKitchenAid Induction Cooktop Symbol "U u": pan not recognized on the zone F64KitchenAid Induction Cooktop Code F64: the touch control and power module group FC E0KitchenAid Induction Cooktop Code FC E0: supply, wiring or the induction module FC E1KitchenAid Induction Cooktop Code FC E1: touchpad or the cable behind it

E_3E_3 questions

Can an empty pan cause E_3?

Yes. Heating a dry pan sends extra heat into the glass and electronics, which can trip the over-temperature shutoff. Always have food or liquid in the pan.

How long should I wait?

Until the glass and the area around it feel cool. Rushing the restart can bring E_3 right back, so give it time and then reset power.

When is E_3 a repair?

If it repeats under ordinary cooking with good airflow, the unit needs a look. We inspect it, quote first in writing, and give a 30-day warranty.