Aircon inverter power module (IPM)
The inverter power module, often called IPM, is part of the outdoor inverter drive path. If it fails, compressor control can stop or become unstable.
Parts summary
Warning Signs
What it is and where it sits
The inverter power module, called IPM, controls how much power the compressor receives.
Think of it like a volume knob for the compressor. It turns the power up and down smoothly.
When the IPM fails, the compressor gets unstable power and runs erratically or stops.
Failure modes and warning signs
IPM modules fail from heat, age, or electrical stress. They stop controlling power smoothly.
You notice the compressor runs at odd speeds or the unit keeps cutting out. Cooling becomes unstable.
The unit may fail to start or run briefly then stop. You see no error message but cooling does not work.
- Compressor speed erratic or unstable
- Unit cuts out repeatedly or fails to start
- Cooling weak or completely absent
How we verify the problem
Technicians check the outdoor PCB first to rule out control-board faults.
They measure compressor speed and power output during operation.
They look for voltage instability or burn marks on the IPM module itself.
| Test Finding | What It Means | Next Step |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor PCB is faulty | Board is the problem, not IPM | Replace outdoor PCB |
| IPM shows burn marks | Module has failed electrically | Replace IPM |
| Power voltage is unstable | IPM is not controlling smoothly | Replace IPM |
Should you fix it now?
Replace only if testing shows the IPM is failing to control power.
You can wait if the problem happened once and the unit is now stable.
Do not wait if the compressor keeps cutting out or the unit never cools. IPM faults get worse quickly.
What to expect
IPM replacement requires sourcing the part and opening the outdoor unit.
Testing first avoids replacing the IPM when the fault is really the outdoor PCB.
Most compressor control issues are caused by outdoor PCB faults, not IPM faults.
Common questions
Same situation with your aircon?
Describe it on WhatsApp