Overcurrent Protection

What it means

This code appears on Gree split air conditioners when the current drawn by the unit or the compressor exceeds the allowed limit, so the unit stops the compressor to protect the wiring and the control board, then retries later. Repeated E5 means an overload or electrical fault that needs checking. The same code can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Gree split (wall-mounted) air conditioners, mainly inverter models; the code shows on the indoor unit display. Older non-inverter models may show fewer codes.

Related codes: H5H3E1E6

Symptoms4

• The unit stops shortly after starting and shows the code.
• It usually happens at peak heat or when building voltage drops.
• Humming or a struggling compressor start in some cases.
• The breaker may trip in some cases.

Possible causes6

• Low or fluctuating supply voltage, common at summer peak or with long, thin supply cables.
• Dirty condenser or weak outdoor fan raising pressure and compressor load.
• Weak compressor run capacitor on non-inverter models.
• Refrigerant overcharge or a restriction increasing the load.
• Mechanical compressor tightness or weak winding insulation.
• Faulty current-sensing circuit on the outdoor board or poor wiring connections.

How to diagnose5

1. Switch off at the breaker for a few minutes, restart, and try again at a lower-demand time.
2. Clean the outdoor unit and make sure its fan spins well.
3. The technician measures supply voltage while the compressor is running, not only before start.
4. The technician measures running current against the unit nameplate and tests the capacitor on non-inverter models.
5. The technician checks wiring connections, the compressor and the outdoor board.

How to fix5

1. Clean the condenser and fix the outdoor fan.
2. Fit a voltage protector (stabiliser) if voltage fluctuation is confirmed, and upgrade an undersized supply cable.
3. Replace a weak capacitor on non-inverter models.
4. Tighten or renew loose or burnt connections.
5. Replace the outdoor board or have the compressor handled at a service center if proven faulty, then monitor the current and confirm the code is gone.

The range starts at a capacitor or voltage protector plus cleaning and rises to an outdoor inverter board; compressor replacement costs more than this range.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions