Indoor and Outdoor Unit Communication Error
What it means
This code appears on Midea split air conditioners with the classic code set when the signal between the indoor and outdoor boards is lost for longer than allowed. The compressor does not run so there is no cooling, and the indoor fan may keep going. 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.
Symptoms4
- The outdoor unit is fully stopped, or runs and then stops.
- Air from the indoor unit is not cold.
- The code usually appears a few minutes after start-up.
- It may appear after installation, a power cut or rain.
Possible causes5
- Loose or corroded terminals on the interconnecting cable, especially the signal wire.
- Wrong wire order between the units after installation.
- Damaged cable or an uninsulated joint along it.
- No power at the outdoor unit or a blown fuse on its board.
- Faulty outdoor or indoor board, especially after a voltage surge.
How to diagnose5
- Switch off at the breaker for a few minutes, then restart.
- Watch whether the outdoor unit starts or its indicator lights up.
- The technician matches the wire order in both units to the wiring diagram and tightens the terminals.
- The technician measures the voltage at the outdoor unit and checks the outdoor board fuse.
- The technician tests the cable, then identifies the faulty board by measurement or substitution.
How to fix5
- Tighten and clean the terminals and correct the wire order.
- Replace the damaged cable or repair the exposed joint.
- Replace the outdoor board fuse after finding why it blew.
- Replace the faulty outdoor or indoor board.
- Run the unit and confirm the outdoor unit keeps running without the code.
Repair cost
In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.
In the Saudi market: SAR 100–2,500 (≈ USD 27–667)
Our prices come from the Saudi market, converted at a fixed rate (SAR 3.75 per USD). Prices in your country may differ a lot, so we show the cost level.
The cheapest fix is tightening terminals or a new cable; the most expensive is an outdoor inverter board.
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 rain cause this code?
Yes. Water in the outdoor terminals or a cable joint causes corrosion or leakage that breaks the signal.
Does every E1 need a new board?
No. Wiring and terminals are the usual cause; replace a board only after the cable and power supply check out.
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