The EC54 error code in air conditioners is related to issues with the temperature sensor located in the outdoor unit. This sensor monitors the temperature of the refrigerant gas passing through the compressor’s discharge line. For this reason, it is installed on the smaller-diameter pipe of the compressor.
Continuous monitoring of this temperature allows the electronic board of the outdoor unit to implement appropriate control strategies. If the temperature exceeds normal levels, the viscosity of the compressor’s lubricant oil decreases, which can damage the internal mechanisms responsible for gas compression. This issue is particularly critical for refrigerants like R32, which have a very high discharge temperature.
The proper functioning of the compressor discharge sensor is crucial. In most cases, the EC54 error occurs when the sensor:
- Is not correctly positioned.
- Is installed improperly.
- Has a faulty or loose connector.
- Is uncalibrated, short-circuited, or has an open circuit.
The sensor’s deterioration is often due to its exposure to the highest temperatures in the system, as it is attached to the pipe carrying the gas discharged by the compressor.
Brands Using the EC54 Error Code
Many brands use the EC54 code to indicate faults with this sensor, including:
- Voltas
- Blue Star
- Dawlance
- Orient
- Lloyd
- Godrej
- Reconnect
- Midea
- Kelvinator
- Carrier
- Eureka
- Mirage
- Lennox
Recommendations for Resolving the EC54 Error Code
- Disconnect the Equipment from Electricity
- Turn off the air conditioner for a few minutes, then turn it back on to check if the error persists.
- Visual Inspection
- Check the position of the temperature sensor to ensure it is correctly placed.
- Inspect Connections
- Examine the sensor’s connector and its connection to the electronic module for any damage or looseness.
- Check the Sensor with a Multimeter
- Step 1: Disconnect the sensor and set the multimeter to the kilo-ohm resistance scale.
- Step 2: Measure the sensor’s electrical resistance.
- Step 3: Compare the measured resistance to the sensor’s resistance-temperature chart if available.
- Step 4: If the chart is unavailable, rub the sensor with your hand to slightly warm it; the resistance should decrease.
- The resistance value should neither be zero nor infinite.
- Measure Voltage
- With the sensor connected and the electronic board powered on, set the multimeter to DC voltage mode.
- Measure the voltage supplied by the board to the sensor. The expected voltage should be approximately 2.5V.
