LG Heat Pump Error Code E473

E473 indicates an outdoor unit compression rate 3 error, meaning the control board has detected that the compressor is not achieving the expected pressure differential within the refrigerant circuit. This is classified as a zone 3 fault, indicating a sustained and significant deviation from normal compression performance. The system shuts down automatically to protect the compressor from operating under harmful conditions.

No, you should not attempt to force the unit to run while this error is active. The system has shut down specifically to prevent damage to the compressor, which is the most mechanically complex and costly component in the heat pump. Continuing to operate the unit under a compression rate fault can accelerate internal compressor wear or cause a complete compressor failure.

Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause. A refrigerant recharge or sensor replacement might range from a few hundred dollars into the mid-hundreds, while a full compressor replacement can range from roughly $1,000 to $2,500 or more depending on unit size, parts availability, and labor rates in your area. Getting a diagnostic visit from a certified technician is the first step to obtaining an accurate repair estimate.

Most of the underlying causes of E473 require professional tools and certifications to address properly. Refrigerant handling, pressure testing, and compressor diagnosis all require EPA Section 608 certification and specialized equipment. A homeowner can check that the outdoor unit is not obstructed and that the electrical disconnect is fully seated, but beyond those basic checks, a licensed HVAC technician should be contacted.

A power reset may temporarily clear the error code, but if the underlying problem remains, E473 will return once the unit resumes operation and the control board re-detects the compression rate fault. Resetting without diagnosis does not address the root cause and may mask a progressively worsening condition. A proper repair requires identifying and correcting the source of the compression rate deviation.