F3

Outdoor Ambient Temperature Sensor Open or Short Circuit

Home Appliance Error Codes Gree Split AC

Severity Medium Do not ignore it; it may get worse and cost more.
Can you still use it? With care until repaired
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 Gree split air conditioners when the control board reads an impossible value from the outdoor ambient temperature sensor, meaning the sensor or its circuit is open or shorted. Inverter models use this reading to set compressor and outdoor fan speed; without it the outdoor unit stops or runs in a limited way depending on the model. The same code can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Gree split (wall-mounted) air conditioners, mainly inverter models; the code shows on the indoor unit display. Older non-inverter models may show fewer codes.

Symptoms3

  • Weak cooling or the outdoor unit stops.
  • The code shows on the indoor display even though the fault is outside.
  • The outdoor fan may run at an unusual speed.

Possible causes5

  • Loose or corroded sensor connector on the outdoor control board, which is the most common cause.
  • Failed sensor (thermistor) from moisture or age.
  • Broken or chafed sensor wire from rubbing, rodents or heat.
  • Sensor or wire damage from sun, extreme heat and dust at the outdoor unit.
  • Faulty sensor input circuit on the outdoor control board, which is less common.

How to diagnose5

  1. Switch off at the breaker for a few minutes and restart to see if the code is permanent.
  2. The technician checks the sensor connector on the outdoor control board and reseats it firmly.
  3. The technician removes the sensor, measures its resistance and compares it with the Gree resistance table at a known temperature.
  4. The technician inspects the wire along its length for breaks or chafing.
  5. If the sensor and wire are fine, the technician tests the board with a known-good sensor.

How to fix5

  1. Clean and firmly reseat the connector.
  2. Repair and insulate the damaged wire.
  3. Replace the sensor with the correct part for the model and fit it in its original position.
  4. Replace the outdoor control board only if its input circuit is proven faulty.
  5. Run the unit and confirm the code is gone and cooling is normal.

Repair cost

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

A connector clean or a new sensor is usually enough and cheap; the cost only rises if the control board has to be replaced.

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

The code shows indoors, so why check outside?

The outdoor unit sends its sensor reading to the indoor unit, which displays the code. The fault itself is in a sensor or connector on the outdoor board.

Do I need a technician?

Yes. The sensor plugs into the outdoor inverter board, which keeps a dangerous charge after the power is switched off.

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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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