E12
Pahlen
Ambient / Frost Protection Sensor Fault
Heater displays E12; may be associated with very low ambient temperatures or sensor wiring issues.
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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 ambient temperature sensor on Pahlen unit, Sensor wiring damaged by UV or rodents, Sensor not properly mounted to sense air temperature, Control board sensor input fault
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Disconnect power before working on sensors or wiring.
Step-by-step checks:
- Locate ambient sensor: On models with frost protection, find the ambient sensor mounted on or near the heater casing. Ensure it is not buried in insulation or touching hot surfaces.
- Inspect cable: Check the cable for cracks, UV damage, or chew marks. Repair or replace as needed.
- Test resistance: Unplug the sensor and measure its resistance. Compare to the Pahlen chart for the current air temperature. Replace if out of range.
- Check mounting: Ensure the sensor is exposed to free air, not inside a sealed compartment that could overheat.
When to stop: If the sensor tests good but E12 persists, the control board may require replacement.
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Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
Required Part
Pahlen ambient temperature sensor
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