Viking Range Error Code F44: Cooling Fan Relay Failure... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The MCU (Main Control Unit) on the Viking range monitors the oven temperature. When a certain temperature threshold is reached, the MCU sends a voltage signal to energize the cooling fan relay. This relay then closes, providing power to the cooling fan motor. If the MCU doesn't receive confirmation that the fan is running (through voltage/current feedback), or if the relay doesn't activate, it can trigger the F44 error.

Symptoms:

US homeowners often report the oven not heating properly, or excessively long preheating times. They may also notice unusual noises or no noise at all coming from the range's cooling fan area. The error code F44 will typically be displayed on the control panel.

Possible Causes:

Faulty cooling fan relay
Wiring harness issue to the relay or fan
Defective cooling fan motor
Overheated oven cavity causing excessive fan use and relay stress
Control board (MCU) failure
Loose connections at the relay or fan motor

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the Viking range at the breaker panel. Verify no voltage is present using a multimeter.
2

Locate the cooling fan relay. Refer to the Viking service manual for the specific location based on your model.
3

Visually inspect the relay and wiring harness for any signs of damage, such as burnt wires or melted plastic.
4

Use a multimeter to test the relay coil for continuity. A reading of OL (open line) indicates a failed relay.
5

Check the voltage supply to the relay coil when the oven is calling for the fan to run (usually after the oven reaches a certain temperature). You should see 120V AC.
6

Test the cooling fan motor for proper operation. Measure the voltage at the fan motor terminals. It should match the fan's voltage rating (typically 120V AC). Also, check the fan's windings for continuity with a multimeter. An open circuit indicates a faulty fan.
7

If the relay coil receives voltage and the fan motor tests good, but the fan doesn't run, replace the cooling fan relay. If the relay coil isn't receiving voltage, suspect a control board (MCU) issue.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the range at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. This range operates at 120V AC and 240V AC, which can cause serious injury or death. Always use proper Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the range, especially around the vents. Avoid overheating the oven by not exceeding the recommended maximum temperatures. Consider having a licensed technician inspect the range annually to identify potential issues before they escalate.

Expert Tip:

Viking ranges often have a service mode. Consult the service manual for instructions on entering service mode. Some models allow you to manually activate the cooling fan through the service mode to test its functionality directly. This can help isolate the problem to the relay or the fan motor.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the exact location of the cooling fan relay on my specific Viking range model?

Refer to the service manual for your specific model. The location can vary, but it's often near the control board or behind the oven cavity.

•How do I test the cooling fan motor for proper operation?

First, ensure the range is disconnected from power. Then, use a multimeter to check for continuity across the fan motor windings. An open circuit indicates a failed motor. Also, once power is restored, carefully measure the voltage at the fan motor terminals when the oven is calling for the fan to run. This voltage should match the fan motor's rating (typically 120V AC).

•If the cooling fan relay tests good, what is the next most likely cause of the F44 error?

If the relay tests good, the next most likely cause is a faulty control board (MCU). The MCU might not be sending the signal to energize the relay, or it might not be receiving the feedback signal confirming the fan is running. Replace the MCU only as a last resort due to cost.

Viking Range Error Code F44: Cooling Fan Relay Failure Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the exact location of the cooling fan relay on my specific Viking range model?

•How do I test the cooling fan motor for proper operation?

•If the cooling fan relay tests good, what is the next most likely cause of the F44 error?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: