F3
TCL
Outdoor Ambient Temperature Sensor Fault
Unit displays F3 and may stop heating or cooling
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Failed outdoor air temperature sensor, Sensor wiring damaged by weather or rodents, Loose sensor connector on outdoor PCB, Faulty outdoor PCB sensor circuit
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Turn OFF the outdoor unit power at the breaker.
- Step 1 – Locate outdoor ambient sensor: It is usually mounted near the outdoor coil or on the unit frame, exposed to outside air.
- Step 2 – Inspect sensor and wires: Check for physical damage, UV-cracked insulation, or rodent bites. Repair or replace as needed.
- Step 3 – Check connector: Ensure the sensor plug is firmly connected to the outdoor PCB.
- Step 4 – Replace sensor: Install a new TCL outdoor ambient sensor if the old one is faulty.
- Step 5 – PCB diagnosis: If F3 persists with a new sensor, the outdoor PCB may have a defective input channel and should be replaced.
Warning: Outdoor units contain live components even when not running; always verify power is off before touching wiring.
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Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
Required Part
Outdoor Ambient Temperature Sensor
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