LG Air Conditioner Error Code 5

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LG outdoor unit
LG Air Conditioner Error Code 5

This article is about troubleshooting LG air conditioner error code 5. For other error codes, see LG Error Code.

Error code 5 on an LG air conditioner indicates a communication failure between the indoor and outdoor units. [1, 2, 3] This is a common issue that can arise from several causes, but it is often related to the wiring that connects the two components.

Understanding the Error

When the indoor unit's main printed circuit board (PCB) does not receive a signal from the outdoor unit's PCB for a specific period (typically three to five minutes), the system will generate an error code 5. [3, 4] This is a protective measure to prevent the air conditioner from operating without proper communication, which could lead to damage.

On some models, this error is indicated by a specific pattern of blinking LEDs on the indoor unit. For the LG LS091HSV and LS121HSV models, for example, the LED1 (Heating LED) will blink five times to indicate this communication failure between the indoor and outdoor units. [1]

Common Causes

The most frequent cause of error code 5 is an issue with the communication wiring. This can include:

  • Incorrect Wiring: The communication wires may have been connected to the wrong terminals on either the indoor or outdoor unit. [5] This can be especially common if the terminals are not clearly labeled or if the wiring diagram in the manual is not consulted. [5] One user on Reddit noted that their issue was resolved after discovering the communication wire was on the wrong terminal, and that the hard copy manual lacked a wiring diagram which was present in the online version. [5]
  • Shorted or Open Wires: The communication wire itself could be shorted out or have a break in the line, preventing a signal from being transmitted. [5]
  • Incorrect Wire Polarization: The two communication lines may have been reversed. [5] One user suggested switching the two lines at the condenser to resolve this. [5]
  • Faulty PCB: In some cases, the communication error may be due to a malfunctioning printed circuit board in either the indoor or outdoor unit.

Troubleshooting Steps

Before calling a technician, you can perform a few basic checks:

  1. Power Cycle the Unit: Turn off the circuit breaker for both the indoor and outdoor units for at least 5 minutes. This can sometimes reset the system and clear the error.
  2. Check the Wiring: Warning: Always turn off the power at the circuit breaker before inspecting any wiring.
    • Visually inspect the communication wire between the indoor and outdoor units for any signs of damage, such as cuts or frays.
    • If you are comfortable and knowledgeable in doing so, open the access panels on both the indoor and outdoor units to verify that the communication wires are securely connected to the correct terminals. Refer to the wiring diagram in your unit's installation manual. A user on a Reddit forum mentioned that the communication wire was on the wrong terminal, and that the online manual had a clear wiring diagram while the included hard copy did not. [5]

If these steps do not resolve the issue, it is recommended to contact a qualified HVAC technician. They will have the tools and expertise to perform more in-depth diagnostics, such as:

  • Checking for voltage and continuity along the communication wire.
  • Testing the components on the PCBs of both the indoor and outdoor units.
  • Ensuring the correct type of wire was used for the installation.

Related Error Codes

  • Error Code 53: Communication failure from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit. [1] While similar to error code 5, this may point more specifically to an issue originating from the outdoor unit's transmitting components.

External Links

References