Outdoor Condenser Temperature Sensor Open or Short Circuit

Home Appliance Error Codes Midea Split AC

Can you still use it? No, unplug it

Who can fix it? Needs a technician

Typical repair time 30 minutes – 2 hours

Typical cost SAR 80 to 2,500

What it means

This code appears on Midea split air conditioners with the classic code set when the outdoor condenser coil temperature sensor (T3) reading is impossible, meaning an open or short circuit. The unit relies on this sensor for condenser high-temperature protection in cooling and defrost in heating, so the outdoor unit stops. The sensor code order differs on some Midea series, so match the code with the unit manual. The same code can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Midea residential split air conditioners with the classic display codes (E0–EC, F1–F4, P0–P4); newer Midea series use different codes (EH, EL, PC) and some models differ.

Symptoms3

The outdoor unit stops and there is no cooling.
It may appear after the outdoor unit was washed.
Defrost may not work in heat mode.

Possible causes5

Loose or corroded sensor connector on the outdoor board.
Failed sensor (thermistor).
Cut, chafed or rodent-damaged sensor wire.
Sensor shifted off the condenser pipe or water in its connector after a wash.
Faulty sensor input circuit on the outdoor board, the least likely cause.

How to diagnose5

Switch off at the breaker for a few minutes and restart to see if the code is permanent.
With the power off, the technician opens the outdoor board cover and checks the T3 sensor connector.
The technician measures the T3 sensor resistance and compares it with the Midea table for the same temperature.
The technician traces the wire for breaks or chafing.
If the sensor and wire are fine, the technician tries a known-good sensor before blaming the board.

How to fix5

Clean the connector and seat it firmly.
Repair or replace the wire.
Fit a new matching T3 sensor in its original position.
Replace the outdoor board if its input circuit is proven faulty.
Run the unit and confirm the code is gone.

Repair cost

0–200

200–600

600–1,500

1,500+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

Most cases are a sensor or connector at low cost; the outdoor board is what raises the cost if it has failed.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions

Can pressure washing cause this code?

It can if water gets into the sensor connector or the sensor shifts. Wash gently and keep away from the electrical box.

Can I run the unit until it is fixed?

The outdoor unit usually will not run, and bypassing the sensor is not advised because it is part of compressor protection.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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