LG Heat Pump Error Code 33

Error code 33 means the constant speed compressor has shut down three times in one hour due to discharge temperature rising beyond safe limits. The system locks out after the third shutdown to protect the compressor from heat damage. The first step in diagnosing this fault is checking whether the discharge temperature sensor is reading accurately.

No. Error code 33 indicates the system has already locked out after repeated compressor overheating events. Attempting to bypass the lockout and continue operating the unit without correcting the underlying cause risks permanent compressor damage, which is one of the most expensive repairs on a heat pump system. Leave the unit off until the fault is diagnosed and corrected.

Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause. A discharge temperature sensor replacement is typically the least expensive repair, generally in the range of $100 to $300 including labor. Refrigerant leak repair and recharge can range from $200 to $600 or more depending on the severity. Compressor replacement is the most costly outcome, often ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 or higher depending on the unit size and labor rates in your area.

Some contributing factors, such as cleaning dirty coils or clearing airflow obstructions, can be addressed without professional help. However, diagnosing the discharge temperature sensor, checking refrigerant charge, and evaluating compressor health all require specialized tools and, in the case of refrigerant work, EPA certification. It is safest to have a qualified HVAC technician handle this fault.

A power reset may temporarily clear the fault and allow the unit to restart, but if the root cause has not been corrected, the compressor will overheat again and error code 33 will return within the same operating cycle. Resetting without diagnosis does not fix the underlying problem and may accelerate compressor wear.