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Equipment error code

Goodman code F1

F1 — outdoor fan motor fault. The control did not detect proper fan operation or measured overcurrent on the fan circuit.

Equipment
air conditioner
Brand
Goodman
Source checked
2026-03-01

What this code means

F1 — outdoor fan motor fault. The control did not detect proper fan operation or measured overcurrent on the fan circuit.

Source: Goodman SS-GSX14 Service Instructions — Self-Check Fault Codes · checked 2026-03-01

Which models show it

Goodman GSX, GSXC, SSX outdoor units and heat pump GSZH condensers.

What is actually happening

Compressor may start briefly without condenser airflow, then lock on F1. No cooling until fan operation is restored.

Is it safe to keep running?

Never run cooling without outdoor fan — head pressure spikes fast.

Shut it down when

Fan hums but does not spin, burning smell, or blade obstruction.

What a homeowner can safely check

  • Power off — visually check for debris stuck in fan blade.
  • Spin blade gently by hand when power is off — rough bearing feel means stop.
  • Clear weeds and leaves from base of unit.
  • Verify disconnect is fully seated.

When to stop

  • Blade won't turn freely.
  • Repeated F1 after clearing debris.
  • You are not comfortable working near high voltage even with power off.

Likely causes ranked

  1. 1. Failed fan capacitor

    How a tech confirms: Microfarad test; replacement if out of tolerance.

    Typical repair: $150–$325 · Air Conditioner Repair cost guide

  2. 2. Seized or weak fan motor

    How a tech confirms: Amp draw and bearing check; replaces motor.

    Typical repair: $350–$750 · Air Conditioner Repair cost guide

  3. 3. Loose or burned wire at fan module

    How a tech confirms: Inspects harness and contactor connections.

    Typical repair: $125–$275 · Air Conditioner Repair cost guide

  4. 4. Control board fan output failure

    How a tech confirms: Voltage out to motor; board replacement if absent.

    Typical repair: $400–$850 · Air Conditioner Repair cost guide

Is this the end of this unit?

Fan motor plus board on units over 12 years — compare to new outdoor unit with warranty.

How to clear the code

Clear obstruction, power cycle once. If fan does not start within 10 seconds, leave off.

Why clearing is not fixing it: F1 recurs until fan electrical or mechanical fault is repaired.

Which trade to call

Call a licensed hvac contractor who works on air conditioner equipment. Gas, refrigerant, and combustion faults are not general handyman jobs.

Related codes and symptom guides

More codes from this brand

Symptom guide: Air Conditioner Not Cooling

FAQ

What is Goodman F1?
Outdoor fan motor fault — fan not proving to the control.
Can I replace the fan capacitor myself?
Capacitors store charge — HVAC techs discharge and replace safely.
F1 but fan spins?
Weak capacitor or intermittent board output — still needs diagnosis.
F1 repair cost?
$125–$850 depending on capacitor, motor, or board.
Will F1 cause E1?
Yes — no condenser airflow often trips high pressure next.

Source

Source — Goodman SS-GSX14 Service Instructions — Self-Check Fault Codes. Checked .