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Error code reference

Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code YEL_FLICKER_RED_ON_GRN_FLICKER

DC fan error (SH12BWHX only)

Samsung codesSamsung air conditioner codes

DC fan error (SH12BWHX only)

First step from the service manual

Check fan motor connection at CN01 of outdoor control board

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
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What YEL_FLICKER_RED_ON_GRN_FLICKER means on a Samsung air conditioner

The YEL_FLICKER_RED_ON_GRN_FLICKER error code on the Samsung SH12BWHX indicates a DC fan motor fault in the outdoor unit. This error is specific to this model and is communicated through a combination LED status pattern on the outdoor control board: the yellow LED flickers, the red LED stays solid, and the green LED flickers simultaneously. This pattern signals that the outdoor control board has detected an abnormal condition in the DC fan motor circuit, preventing normal fan operation.

The DC outdoor fan motor is responsible for drawing air across the condenser coil to dissipate heat during cooling or to absorb heat during heating operation. When this motor fails to reach its commanded speed, runs outside its expected parameters, or loses its feedback signal to the control board, the system triggers this fault and halts operation to prevent compressor overheating or other cascade failures. The primary diagnostic entry point is the fan motor connector at CN01 on the outdoor control board, where a loose, corroded, or damaged connection can cause the control board to misread or lose the motor signal entirely.

Common root causes include wiring faults at the CN01 connector, failed DC fan motor windings, a faulty motor capacitor if applicable, or a defective outdoor control board that cannot properly drive or interpret the motor feedback signal. Environmental factors such as debris obstructing the fan blade or bearing wear causing motor drag can also trigger this fault by preventing the motor from reaching its target RPM.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of YEL_FLICKER_RED_ON_GRN_FLICKER

  1. 01

    Loose or faulty CN01 connector

    Wiring / connection

    The fan motor wiring connector at CN01 on the outdoor control board can become loose, corroded, or have a damaged pin, causing the board to lose communication with the motor. Inspect the connector for secure seating, corrosion, and bent or pushed-back terminals.

  2. 02

    Failed DC fan motor

    Part replacement

    The DC fan motor windings can fail due to age, overheating, or moisture ingress, resulting in an open or shorted winding. Check motor resistance across windings and compare to specified values; any reading of zero ohms or open circuit indicates motor failure.

  3. 03

    Obstructed or seized fan blade

    Wiring / connection

    Debris such as leaves, ice, or foreign objects lodged in the fan assembly can prevent the blade from spinning freely, causing the motor to draw excessive current and trigger the fault. Inspect the outdoor unit fan area for physical obstructions and attempt to rotate the blade by hand to check for bearing drag.

  4. 04

    Damaged fan motor wiring harness

    Part replacement

    The wiring between the outdoor control board and the fan motor can develop cuts, chafing damage, or broken conductors from vibration or rodent activity. Perform a continuity check on each wire in the harness from CN01 to the motor terminals.

  5. 05

    Defective outdoor control board

    Part replacement

    If the CN01 connection and the motor both test correctly, the outdoor control board itself may be unable to supply proper drive voltage or interpret the motor feedback signal. Board failure is typically diagnosed after ruling out all other causes.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about YEL_FLICKER_RED_ON_GRN_FLICKER

What does YEL_FLICKER_RED_ON_GRN_FLICKER mean on a Samsung air_conditioner?
This LED pattern indicates a DC fan motor error specific to the Samsung SH12BWHX outdoor unit. The combination of a flickering yellow LED, solid red LED, and flickering green LED tells you the outdoor control board has detected a fault in the DC fan motor circuit. The unit will not operate normally until the fault is resolved to protect the compressor and refrigerant system.
How do I fix the DC fan error on a Samsung SH12BWHX?
Start by inspecting the fan motor wiring connector at CN01 on the outdoor control board, checking for loose pins, corrosion, or damaged wires. If the connection looks good, inspect the fan blade for obstructions and check that it rotates freely by hand. If the connection and blade are both fine, the DC fan motor or the outdoor control board itself will need to be tested further and likely replaced.
Will resetting the unit clear the YEL_FLICKER_RED_ON_GRN_FLICKER error?
Resetting the unit by cycling power may temporarily clear the error display, but the fault will return immediately if the underlying problem with the DC fan motor or its wiring is still present. A reset is not a repair, and repeated faults without correction can cause additional damage to the compressor or control board.
Is it safe to run my Samsung air conditioner when this error is showing?
No, you should not attempt to operate the unit while this error is active. The outdoor fan is critical for moving air across the condenser coil, and running the system without proper fan operation can cause the compressor to overheat and fail, which is a significantly more expensive repair than addressing the fan fault.
How much does it cost to repair a DC fan motor error on a Samsung air conditioner?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. If the issue is simply a loose connector, the cost may be limited to a service call fee, typically in the range of $75 to $150. A replacement DC fan motor for a mini-split outdoor unit generally costs between $100 and $300 for the part, with labor on top of that. An outdoor control board replacement can run $150 to $400 or more for the part alone.

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