Wolf Induction Code E3: Generator 2 Heat Sink Overtemp

What E3 means

E3 on a Wolf CT induction cooktop from the earlier CTI line, such as the CT30 and CT36 sizes, tells you the heat sink for generator 2 is too hot. The second generator powers its own set of burners, and they shut down until the temperature falls. The display shows E3, and part of the cooktop stops heating while generator 1 may stay normal. Generator 1 overheating is reported as E2.

Common causes of E3

Long high-power cooking that overloaded generator 2
Poor airflow around the cooktop or a cooling problem on the generator side
Heat sink temperature reading higher than reality

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Switch off all burners and move cookware aside. 2. Give the cooktop 30 minutes to cool. 3. Clear anything stored directly beneath the unit that could block air. 4. Reset power at the breaker for one minute. 5. When E3 keeps coming back after cooling, stop and schedule a visit.

! Why to stop there

Repeat overheating can wear the generator, so we find out why it runs hot.
The checks involve live induction electronics that should not be opened by owners.
We provide a written quote first and a 30-day warranty on our workmanship.

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.

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Other Cooktop codes

E7Wolf Induction Cooktop Code E7: Keyboard Diode Configuration Error E8Wolf CT Induction Code E8: no communication with generator 1 E9Wolf CT Cooktop Code E9: Generator 2 Communication Error E30Wolf CT Induction Code E30: burner ON LED failure, LED board E33Wolf CT Cooktop Code E33: LED Board Failure on a Burner E4Wolf CT Induction E4 Code: Heat Sink of Generator 3 Overheated 39Wolf 2015-Series Cooktop Code 39 Flags a Controller Options Error E40Wolf Induction Cooktop Code E40: Generator Burner Sensor Shorted

E3E3 questions

What is generator 2 on my cooktop?

It is the second power module that drives part of the induction burners. When its heat sink gets too hot, E3 appears and those burners pause until it cools.

Why does E3 differ from E2?

E2 names the heat sink on generator 1 and E3 names generator 2. Knowing which one tripped tells us where to look first. Not every appearance of a code points to a failed part, which is why we test.

Will E3 damage my pans?

No. The cooktop simply stops heating to protect itself. Your cookware is fine. If the code repeats on a cool unit, we should check the heat sink sensing.