PFC Circuit Protection

What it means

This code appears on Panasonic inverter split air conditioners and is read from the fault history with the CHECK button on the remote. It means the power factor correction (PFC) circuit on the outdoor board, which regulates the DC voltage that feeds the compressor, has detected abnormal voltage or current. The unit stops the compressor for protection and may lock out after several repeats until power is cycled. The same number can mean something different on other brands.

Models covered: Panasonic residential inverter split air conditioners (wall mounted); the code is read with the CHECK button on the remote control.

Related codes: F99F98F96H11

Symptoms4

• Cooling stops suddenly and a lamp blinks on the indoor unit.
• Stops repeat during low or unstable voltage, such as summer peak hours.
• The unit may run normally after a restart and then show the code again.
• A burning smell from the outdoor unit in severe cases.

Possible causes5

• Supply voltage that swings, sags or rises outside the allowed range.
• Loose or burnt supply connections, breaker or socket.
• A fault in the PFC circuit on the outdoor board, such as a failed capacitor or transistor.
• A fault in the PFC reactor (choke) or its wiring.
• A lightning strike or voltage surge that damaged the board.

How to diagnose5

1. Switch off at the breaker for a few minutes, restart and note when the code returns.
2. Note whether the stops coincide with other large appliances starting or with peak hours.
3. The technician measures supply voltage with the compressor running and compares it with the range on the unit label.
4. The technician checks the breaker, connections and supply cable for looseness or burning.
5. After safely discharging the board, the technician checks the PFC circuit and reactor using the service manual.

How to fix5

1. Tighten supply connections and replace a damaged breaker or cable.
2. Fit a voltage protector if the supply is unstable.
3. Ask the utility or building electrician to correct the voltage if it is always out of range.
4. Replace the reactor or its wiring if faulty.
5. Replace the outdoor board at an authorized service center, then confirm the code does not return.

Repair cost

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

The cost is low when a voltage protector or tightened connections solve it, and reaches the top of the range when the outdoor inverter board must 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