Understanding and Resolving Error EL 0C in Air Conditioners

The error code EL 0C, also known as EL OC, appears in various air conditioning systems. This code primarily indicates a lack of refrigerant gas, often due to a leak. However, before concluding this, it’s essential to perform a series of checks and procedures to rule out other causes.

Manufacturers Using the EL 0C Error Code

The EL 0C code is found in models from the following manufacturers:

• BGH
• Midea
• Actron
• Traine
• Alaska
• Sanyo
• Sharp
• Mr. Cool

The detection and activation of the EL 0C code depend on the equipment model and its diagnostic strategy.

Confirming a Gas Leak

To verify the presence of a refrigerant gas leak:

1. Measure Electrical Current Consumption:
   • Use a clamp meter to measure the air conditioner’s electrical current consumption.
   • Compare the reading with the RLA (Rated Load Amps) specified for the unit.
   • A gas leak typically reduces the unit’s current consumption, which is a simple check that does not require direct intervention with the air conditioning system.
2. Resetting the System:
   • Temporarily bypass the error by disconnecting the unit from the power supply for several minutes.
   • If possible, power the unit directly without using the control system to test operation.

If the current consumption is normal, proceed with additional verifications.

Additional Checks

1. Clean the Indoor Unit’s Air Filters:
   • Dirty or clogged filters can obstruct airflow and cause high ambient temperature readings, which may mistakenly trigger error codes related to gas issues.
2. Inspect the Indoor Unit’s Fan and Turbine:
   • Check the speed and cleanliness of the indoor fan. A dirty or malfunctioning fan can impair the system’s performance and produce false readings of high ambient temperatures.
3. Check the Temperature Sensor:
   • A misaligned or uncalibrated temperature sensor may trigger alarms.
   • Use a multimeter set to the kilo-ohm scale to test the sensor:
     • Disconnect the sensor and measure its resistance.
     • The reading should decrease when the sensor is rubbed by hand.
     • The sensor should not display infinity or zero but should provide a measurable value that matches the manufacturer’s specifications.
   • Verify if the electronic control board is supplying the correct voltage to the sensor:
     • With the sensor connected, use a multimeter set to DC voltage. The reading should be approximately 2.5V.
4. Inspect the Electronic Control Board:
   • Although rare, a faulty PCB (Printed Circuit Board) can produce false errors or malfunctions.

Confirming and Addressing a Gas Leak

If a refrigerant leak is confirmed:

• Use a set of pressure gauges to measure refrigerant levels.
• Examine pipe connections for oil stains, as these often indicate a leak.
• Repair any detected leaks and recharge the refrigerant to the manufacturer’s specifications.