Gree F3 Error Code
Outdoor ambient temperature sensor open- or short-circuited
Source: Gree/Gree_etac-iii-r32-service-manual-a_HVAC.pdf
What does Gree F3 mean?
F3 means the outdoor ambient temperature sensor is open- or short-circuited. In cool, fan or dry mode the indoor fan keeps running while the compressor and outdoor fan stop; in heat all loads stop. The unit displays F3.
Symptoms
- Display shows F3
- In cool/fan/dry the indoor fan runs but compressor and outdoor fan stop; in heat all loads stop
- Unit refuses to cool or heat
- Code appears at power-up or soon after running
Common causes
- Outdoor ambient temperature sensor not connected well
- Temperature sensor damaged
- Connection wire short-circuited or broken
- Main board fault (outdoor unit)
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Diagnostic steps
Check the connection terminal
Verify the terminal between the outdoor ambient sensor and the control board is not loose or poorly connected, and reseat the sensor.
Inspect for shorts
Check for a short circuit from tripped-over parts on the board and straighten them.
Measure resistance
Test the sensor against the manual's resistance table; if out of range, replace it with the same model.
Replace the board
If the sensor and wiring are good, replace the outdoor controller board with one of the same model.
When to call a professional
The outdoor sensor sits in the outdoor unit's control box, which carries line voltage and live components. Verifying it against the resistance table and replacing the outdoor main board are technician-level tasks. If F3 persists after a quick connector check, have a licensed HVAC pro complete the diagnosis safely.
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Other Gree Error Codes
Refrigerant insufficient (low-fluorine) protection — compressor and outdoor fan stop, indoor fan keeps running
Indoor (room) ambient temperature sensor open- or short-circuited
Indoor tube (evaporator) temperature sensor open- or short-circuited
Outdoor tube (condenser) temperature sensor open- or short-circuited
Air-outlet (DAHT) temperature sensor open- or short-circuited
Low-temperature prevention protection — electric heating starts up
Overcurrent protection of compressor
Overload protection of compressor
Blocked protection of the indoor (IDU) fan motor — no motor feedback
Communication malfunction between indoor and outdoor unit
Full water protection — drain-pan water level switch tripped
Jumper cap protection — jumper cap missing, loose or damaged on the control board
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