How to Fix EC Error in Air Conditioners

The EC error code stands for “Refrigerant Error” and typically indicates a potential refrigerant gas leak in the air conditioning system. It may also be related to a communication failure between the indoor and outdoor units.

What to Do When EC Error Occurs?

The EC error is common, and the first step to address it is to reset the air conditioner to allow it to restart.
When this error occurs, the system shuts down, and resetting requires specific checks to identify the root problem.

Steps to Reset the System:

1. Disconnect the power supply.
2. Wait for 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Reconnect the power and lift the unit’s cover.
4. Use the manual power button to turn the system back on.

This reset is temporary, and the error may reappear. To prevent the EC error from recurring, the underlying issue must be resolved.

Troubleshooting the EC Error

• If the outdoor unit does not start after resetting, it may indicate a communication or voltage issue. Check:
  • The external unit’s power supply.
  • Cable connections and potential cable damage.
• If the outdoor unit starts but the compressor is not running, inspect for:
  • Cable damage.
  • Issues with the capacitor or the compressor itself.

Refrigerant Level Check

• If the compressor is running, use a pressure gauge to check the refrigerant level.
• If refrigerant is low, locate and repair potential gas leaks.
• Carefully inspect the unit for leaks in connections, pipes, or system components.
• Repair any leaks immediately and recharge the refrigerant to the manufacturer’s specifications.

System Functionality

• If the system has sufficient refrigerant and the compressor is working:
  • Ensure the external fan is expelling hot air.
  • Verify that the internal unit is providing cold air.

Additional Checks

1. Indoor Sensor Issues
   • Inspect the indoor unit’s temperature sensor, as abnormal readings may cause false EC errors.
   • Check the sensor on the pipe and replace it if necessary.
2. Pressure Sensor Defects
   • In some air conditioners, the pressure sensor monitors refrigerant pressure.
   • If the sensor is faulty, it may trigger the EC error.
3. PCB Malfunction
   • If the error persists after verifying the temperature sensor, the issue might lie in the indoor PCB (Printed Circuit Board).
   • The PCB manages several functions and components, and its malfunction can lead to an EC error.
   • Replace the PCB with one that matches the unit’s model.
4. Blockages or Obstructions
   • Inspect the unit for debris, dirt, or dust accumulation that might block pipes or system components.
   • Safely and carefully remove any obstructions found.

Professional Assistance

Due to the complexity of diagnosing and repairing refrigerant issues or PCB replacements, it is recommended to seek professional assistance. Professionals have the tools and expertise needed to ensure the system is repaired correctly and functions efficiently.

By addressing the specific issue causing the EC error, you can restore your air conditioner’s normal operation and maintain its cooling performance.

How to Fix the EC Error Code in TCL Air Conditioners

The EC error code in TCL air conditioners is commonly associated with voltage supply issues or communication failures between the power supply board and the intelligent power module.

Steps to Resolve the EC Error:

1. Initial Reset:
   • Disconnect the air conditioner for several minutes.
   • Reconnect it and power it on to check if the EC error disappears.
2. Inspect External Connections:
   • If the error persists, turn off the unit, disconnect it, and inspect the external connections of the system.
3. Voltage Verification with a Multimeter:
   • Use a multimeter on the AC voltage scale to measure the voltage supplied by the external grid.
   • If the value is unstable, consider using a voltage stabilizer and check the connections from the external power grid.
4. Inspect the External Unit and Electronic Modules:
   • If the issue continues, inspect the external unit and its electronic control modules.
   • Disconnect the unit, open it, and visually inspect for any issues.
5. Check and Clean Connections:
   • Disconnect the connections, check their condition, clean them, and ensure there are no cut wires.
   • Also, check the condition of the wires connecting to each electronic module in the external unit.
   • Reconnect and power on the unit to see if the error disappears.
6. Observe LEDs on Electronic Boards:
   • If the error persists, observe the LEDs on the electronic boards.
   • If a board does not light up, the issue is likely with that specific module.
7. Verify Specific Electronic Modules:
   • Check for voltage at the connectors, referring to the data for each connector.
   • Inspect electrolytic capacitors and voltage regulators (e.g., a 7805 regulator should output 5 volts).
   • Inspect the PFC (Power Factor Correction) circuit following recommended steps.
8. PFC Circuit and Voltage Generation:
   • If the LEDs light up or blink, focus on the IPM (Intelligent Power Module) circuit, which distributes generated voltage.
   • If the LEDs do not light up, inspect the PFC voltage generation circuit.
9. DC Voltage in the PFC Rectifier Bridge:
   • Ensure DC voltage appears within the board, especially at the output of the PFC rectifier bridge:
     • For 110V AC input, the voltage should be approximately 150V DC.
     • For 220V AC input, the voltage should be around 300V DC.
10. Check Continuity and Resistance in the PFC Circuit:
    • Without energizing the board, verify electrical continuity between the input and output of the PFC circuit coil or reactor.
    • Check the correct resistance values in the PFC circuit, inspect the diode, and visually test capacitors with a capacitance meter.
11. Inspect the IGBT Transistor:
    • Check the condition of the IGBT transistor in the PFC circuit, as it could be contributing to the issue.