The C3 error code on your air conditioner could be caused by a few things, such as a confused system, the thermistor, or the remote controller.
A well-maintained air conditioner will run smoother and for longer, which is why regular maintenance is imperative.
However, error codes may still appear even if your unit is well-maintained. Every manufacturer has their own error code system, but you should always reset your unit before you start investigating common causes and fixes.
The importance of regular maintenance for air conditioners
Whether you have a larger, whole-home and built-in air conditioner, or a smaller, single unit; keeping the air conditioner well-maintained is critical to keep it functioning optimally for as long as possible.
Air conditioners that are well-maintained are also more energy-efficient, as their airflow is usually unobstructed, and the components are clean and functioning.
This should save you money on your electricity bill in the long term, but it will also help you to spot potential issues with your air conditioner before its components give out completely.
C3 error code on air conditioner
Whether your air conditioner is well-maintained or not, it may display an error code when something is not right with your unit.
Error codes, blinking lights, and other indicators are built into your air conditioner by the manufacturer to warn you when there is an issue or problem with one of the components inside the unit or the electrical systems of your air conditioner.
When an error code is displayed on your air conditioner, this typically prevents your air conditioner from turning on until the error code is cleared.
Manufacturers include a list of error codes and what they mean within the owner’s manual of the air conditioner when you purchase it, but if you do not have your manual or cannot find the meaning of the “C3” error code, there are other options you can try.
The fact that every air conditioner manufacturer has their own error code system does make it somewhat more complicated to find out exactly what is wrong with your air conditioning unit.
In light of this, your first step should always be to reset your air conditioner to make sure that the error code displaying is not an error itself and that there really is an issue with one of the components in your air conditioner.
If the error code is still displayed after you have reset your air conditioner, you can try one of the common C3 error code solutions to see if one of them will clear the error for your particular unit.
How to reset your air conditioner
Air conditioners, just like any other machines, can get their systems confused from time to time.
This is why whenever you have an error code that is preventing your air conditioner from working, it is best to reset the unit first, to see if this clears the error message without you having to go to any trouble to find and fix a non-existent issue.
To reset your air conditioner, you need to follow these steps:
- Step 1: Switch the air conditioner off and remove it from the power source by unplugging it or switching off the circuit breakers to the indoor and outdoor units
- Step 2: Leave the power off for about 15 to 30 minutes
- Step 3: Return the power to your unit and turn it back on to see if the C3 error has cleared
If the reset did not clear the C3 error code, you can move on to investigating other common causes of this error code.
The C3 error as an indoor malfunction of your drain thermistor
Daikin air conditioners tend to display a C3 error code if there is an issue with the indoor drain thermistor. The thermistor measures the temperature around it as a gauge for your air conditioner to determine the temperature of the air in your space.
In order to determine whether your thermistor is working, you need to turn off your air conditioner and unplug it and then place the end of the thermistor in a cup of ice water.
You then need to use an electrical multi-meter and micro-leads to determine whether the resistance of your thermistor is what it should be according to your owner’s manual.
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The C3 error as a remote controller communications error
With LG air conditioners, a CH03 error indicates that there is an issue with the indoor controller. You need to inspect the indoor unit for a light that flashes three times to confirm this error.
You may then need to access the printed circuit board (PCB) using a screwdriver and even replace it if this is what is causing your C3 error code.