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Error code reference

Denso Air Conditioner Error Code HP

Activation of high pressure switch

Activation of high pressure switch — blinks when high pressure switch activates 3 times in 24 hours; turns on solid when activated 10 times in 24 hours.

First step from the service manual

See troubleshooting chart on page 47. To reset: hold down SET TEMP UP and DOWN buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What HP means on a Denso air conditioner

The HP error code on a Denso air conditioner indicates activation of the high pressure switch, a safety component that cuts compressor operation when refrigerant pressure in the high-side circuit rises to dangerous levels. The code behavior is frequency-dependent: three activations within a 24-hour period cause the indicator to blink, signaling an intermittent or developing pressure problem. Ten activations within 24 hours cause the indicator to illuminate solid, indicating a persistent fault condition that requires thorough diagnosis before the system is returned to service.

High-side pressure faults typically originate from restricted refrigerant flow, inadequate heat rejection at the condenser, or refrigerant overcharge. When the condenser cannot shed heat efficiently, refrigerant remains in a high-energy state and pressure climbs until the safety switch opens. The switch protects the compressor, refrigerant lines, and fittings from damage that could result from sustained over-pressure conditions. Because the system tracks activations over a rolling 24-hour window, even occasional trips should be investigated rather than dismissed as random events.

Diagnosis should follow the troubleshooting chart on page 47 of the Denso service documentation. The reset procedure requires holding the SET TEMP UP and DOWN buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds, but performing a reset without correcting the underlying cause will allow the fault counter to accumulate again. A solid HP indication following 10 activations is a strong signal that the root cause is consistent and active, not situational.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of HP

  1. 01

    Blocked or dirty condenser coil

    Wiring / connection

    Dirt, debris, or vegetation clogging the condenser fins reduces airflow and prevents heat from escaping the refrigerant circuit, causing pressure to spike. Inspect the condenser coil and clean it thoroughly if airflow restriction is visible.

  2. 02

    Condenser fan failure or reduced airflow

    Part replacement

    A failed condenser fan motor, loose blade, or obstructed fan shroud will limit heat rejection and drive high-side pressure above safe limits. Check that the fan spins freely, runs at full speed, and is not obstructed by debris.

  3. 03

    Refrigerant overcharge

    Wiring / connection

    Excess refrigerant in the system raises head pressure, particularly during mild ambient conditions or low load operation. This condition requires a manifold gauge set to confirm and a certified technician to recover and recharge to specification.

  4. 04

    Non-condensable gases in the refrigerant circuit

    Wiring / connection

    Air or other non-condensable gases introduced during a previous service will raise condenser pressure independent of load. This typically follows an improper recharge procedure and requires a full system recovery, vacuum, and recharge.

  5. 05

    Faulty high pressure switch

    Part replacement

    A switch that is out of calibration or mechanically defective may trip at pressures below the actual design threshold, generating false HP faults even when system pressures are normal. Confirm actual high-side pressure with gauges before replacing the switch.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about HP

What does HP mean on a Denso air conditioner?
The HP code indicates the high pressure switch has activated, meaning refrigerant pressure on the high side of the system reached an unsafe level and the safety circuit shut the compressor down. A blinking HP light means the switch has tripped 3 times within 24 hours. A solid HP light means it has tripped 10 times within 24 hours, indicating a persistent problem that requires diagnosis.
Can I reset the HP error code myself on a Denso air conditioner?
Yes, the reset procedure requires holding the SET TEMP UP and DOWN buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. However, resetting the code without identifying and correcting the root cause will allow the fault counter to accumulate again, and the system will return to a fault state. A reset is only useful after the underlying issue, such as a dirty condenser or refrigerant problem, has been resolved.
Is it safe to keep running my Denso air conditioner when the HP code is active?
No. The high pressure switch is a safety device designed to protect the compressor and refrigerant circuit from damage caused by excessive pressure. Continuing to operate the system while repeatedly triggering this switch risks compressor failure, refrigerant line damage, or fitting failures. The system should be diagnosed and repaired before returning it to regular use, especially if the HP light is solid.
How much does it cost to repair a Denso air conditioner showing an HP error?
Repair costs depend heavily on the root cause. Condenser cleaning is typically low cost, in the range of $75 to $150 for a service call. Refrigerant recovery and recharge due to overcharge or contamination generally runs $150 to $400. A condenser fan motor replacement may cost $200 to $500 including labor. A compressor replacement, if high pressure damage has already occurred, can reach $800 to $2,000 or more.
Will resetting the HP code permanently fix the problem on a Denso air conditioner?
No, a reset clears the fault indicator but does not correct whatever is causing the high pressure condition. If the underlying cause is still present, the high pressure switch will continue to activate and the HP code will return. The reset should be performed only after completing diagnosis and correcting the root cause, following the troubleshooting process outlined in the Denso documentation.

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