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81

Fault code 81 — Indoor ambient Temperature Sensor Fault

Rheem · Air Handlers

What does 81 mean?

The temperature sensor measuring the indoor ambient temperature is faulty. This could be due to connection issues, a defective sensor, or a problem with the controller board.

Common Causes

  • Disconnection or contact failure of connectors on the outdoor controller circuit board
  • Defective thermistor
  • Defective outdoor controller circuit board

Repair Steps & Checklist

Click steps to track your progress.

  1. 1

    Check the connection of the sensor's connector on the indoor controller circuit board.

  2. 2

    Test the resistance of the thermistor or replace the temperature sensor.

  3. 3

    If the sensor and connections are fine, replace the outdoor controller circuit board.

Browse all codes in this manual (51)
Verified technical data. Last updated: April 2026

Related Faults

1Fault code 1 — Inverter DC voltage overload fault10Fault code 10 — PFC fault (level)11Fault code 11 — PFC power detection of failure
Source: Rheem Air Handlers
Open Manual (Page 200)Search more codes in this manual