H97

Outdoor Fan Motor Mechanism Lock

Home Appliance Error Codes Panasonic Split AC

Can you still use it? No, unplug it

Who can fix it? Needs a technician

Typical repair time 30 minutes – 3 hours

Typical cost SAR 100 to 2,500

What it means

This code appears on Panasonic inverter split air conditioners and is read with the CHECK button. It means the outdoor board told the outdoor fan motor to run but did not receive a proper rotation signal back. The unit stops the compressor because the outdoor coil cannot reject heat without the fan, and the same number can mean a different fault 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.

Symptoms4

The outdoor fan does not turn, or turns slowly and then stops.
Cooling stops shortly after starting.
Rubbing or vibration noise from the outdoor unit before the code.
A lamp blinks on the indoor unit.

Possible causes5

Something blocking the blades, such as branches, bags, a bird nest or a cover left on the unit.
Worn motor bearings from heat and dust.
A failed DC fan motor or a fault in its rotation signal.
A loose or burnt motor connector on the board.
A fault in the motor drive circuit on the outdoor board.

How to diagnose5

Switch off at the breaker, then look through the outdoor grille for anything blocking the blades.
With power off, turn the blades with a stick; they should spin freely without a rough sound.
After the board charge has been safely discharged, the technician checks the motor connector and wires.
The technician measures the motor supply and rotation signal and compares them with the manufacturer specification.
The technician decides whether the motor or the board is at fault before replacing anything.

How to fix5

Remove the blockage and clean the outdoor unit with the power off.
Wash the outdoor coil and fan to remove built-up dust.
Replace the outdoor fan motor if its bearings are worn or it has failed.
Repair a burnt connector or wiring.
Replace the outdoor board if the motor circuit is faulty, then run the unit and confirm the code does not return.

Repair cost

0–200

200–600

600–1,500

1,500+

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

The cost is low for a blockage or dust, moderate for a new fan motor, and highest 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

Can I run the unit with the outdoor fan stopped?

No. Without the fan, coil temperature and pressure rise fast and can damage the compressor and inverter board. Keep it off until repaired.

Why does this fault show up in summer?

Extreme heat and dust wear the motor bearings and raise the load, so a weak motor usually shows itself on the hottest days.

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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