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Error code reference

Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code 296

Low pressure sensor error (Open/Short)

Samsung codesSamsung air conditioner codes

Low pressure sensor error (Open/Short) - short error below 0.4V, open error over 4.2V.

First step from the service manual

Check wire breaking of low pressure sensor; check low pressure sensor circuit and sensor.

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

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What 296 means on a Samsung air conditioner

Samsung air conditioner error code 296 indicates a fault in the low pressure sensor circuit. The low pressure sensor monitors refrigerant pressure on the suction side of the refrigeration cycle, and the control board uses its output voltage to confirm safe operating conditions. The system defines two distinct failure modes: a short circuit error, which triggers when the sensor signal voltage drops below 0.4V, and an open circuit error, which triggers when the voltage rises above 4.2V. Either condition causes the unit to flag error 296 and halt normal operation to prevent compressor damage.

The low pressure sensor outputs an analog voltage signal that should fall within a normal operating window between these two thresholds during proper system operation. A reading below 0.4V typically points to a short somewhere in the wiring harness or connector, where the signal line is being pulled to near ground potential. A reading above 4.2V usually indicates an open circuit, meaning the signal path has been broken entirely, which can happen due to a severed wire, a corroded or disconnected connector, or an internally failed sensor.

Diagnosing error 296 starts with a physical inspection of the low pressure sensor wiring, including checking for broken, pinched, or chafed wires and ensuring all connectors are fully seated and free of corrosion. After ruling out wiring issues, the sensor itself should be tested for proper output voltage and compared against the specified thresholds. If the wiring and connectors check out and the sensor output is still out of range, sensor replacement is the likely next step.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 296

  1. 01

    Broken or damaged sensor wiring

    Wiring / connection

    A severed, pinched, or chafed wire in the low pressure sensor harness is one of the most frequent causes of this error. Inspect the full length of the wiring from the sensor to the control board for any visible damage.

  2. 02

    Loose or corroded connector

    Wiring / connection

    A disconnected or corroded connector at the sensor or control board end can interrupt the signal circuit and trigger an open error above 4.2V. Check both ends of the connector, clean any corrosion, and ensure the connector is fully seated.

  3. 03

    Failed low pressure sensor

    Part replacement

    The sensor itself can fail internally, producing a voltage signal that is permanently out of the 0.4V to 4.2V operating range. If wiring and connectors test correctly, the sensor should be tested and replaced if its output is outside the specified range.

  4. 04

    Short circuit in sensor circuit

    Wiring / connection

    A short to ground in the sensor signal wire can force the voltage below the 0.4V threshold, triggering the short error condition. This can result from damaged wire insulation contacting a metal surface or a pinched harness.

  5. 05

    Control board fault

    Part replacement

    In less common cases, the control board input circuit for the low pressure sensor may be damaged, causing it to misread the sensor signal. This should be considered only after the wiring, connectors, and sensor have been confirmed as functional.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 296

What does 296 mean on a Samsung air_conditioner?
Error code 296 on a Samsung air conditioner indicates a low pressure sensor circuit fault. The control board detected that the sensor signal voltage was either below 0.4V, indicating a short circuit, or above 4.2V, indicating an open circuit. The unit stops operation to protect the compressor until the fault is corrected.
Can I fix error code 296 myself?
Some causes of error 296 are accessible to a knowledgeable DIYer, such as inspecting and reseating connectors or checking for visibly damaged wiring. However, testing sensor output voltage requires a multimeter and some electrical knowledge, and any work involving refrigerant or internal system components should be handled by a certified technician.
Is it safe to keep running my Samsung AC with error code 296 active?
No, it is not recommended to attempt to bypass or ignore error 296. The low pressure sensor protects the compressor from running under unsafe refrigerant conditions. Operating the unit with this fault active risks serious compressor damage, which is a significantly more expensive repair than resolving the sensor circuit issue.
Will resetting the unit clear error code 296?
A simple power reset will not permanently clear error code 296 if the underlying wiring or sensor fault still exists. The error will return as soon as the unit attempts to operate and the control board reads the out-of-range voltage again. The root cause in the sensor circuit must be repaired before the code will stay clear.
How much does it cost to repair error code 296 on a Samsung air conditioner?
Repair costs vary depending on the cause. If only a connector needs to be cleaned and reseated, costs may be limited to a service call fee, typically in the range of $75 to $150. If the low pressure sensor needs replacement, parts and labor combined can range from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the unit model and local labor rates.

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