mypros+
Error code reference

Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code 33

Abnormal increase of OLP temperature (comp top OLP temperature trip).

Samsung codesSamsung air conditioner codes
Avg. service call
$285
National average. Trip fee plus diagnostic plus labor. Before parts.
MyPros+ 3-day pass
$9.95
Same diagnostic steps, on your phone. Start now.
You keep in your pocket
~$275
Even before you buy the part.
Skip the service call. Fix it yourself.
Full procedure unlocks instantly.
Get Started

What the 33 error code actually means

Your Samsung air conditioner has detected that the compressor, the heart of the cooling system, is getting dangerously hot and has shut down to protect itself from permanent damage. This can happen if the outdoor unit does not have enough fresh air around it, if the system is low on refrigerant, or if the compressor itself is starting to fail. A technician will need to inspect the outdoor unit and possibly check refrigerant levels before the system can safely run again.

Diagnostic procedure

The full 33 procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Check ventilation around outdoor unit; check refrigerant level; check if compressor is locked.
Unlock with pass
Unlock with pass
Unlock with pass
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
Unlock 33 procedure $9.95

Or subscribe: $29/month for unlimited access to all codes plus Max AI diagnostics.

Most common causes of 33

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Restricted airflow around the outdoor unit
  2. 2Low refrigerant charge
  3. 3Dirty or fouled condenser coil
  4. 4Locked or seized compressor
  5. 5Faulty OLP sensor or wiring

Most DIYers save hundreds by diagnosing before ordering parts.

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

Questions people ask about 33

What does 33 mean on a Samsung air conditioner?
Error code 33 on a Samsung air conditioner indicates an abnormal rise in OLP temperature at the top of the compressor, causing the overload protector to trip and shut the system down. The OLP is a safety device designed to prevent compressor damage from overheating. This fault can be caused by poor outdoor unit ventilation, low refrigerant, a dirty condenser coil, or a mechanically seized compressor.
Is it safe to keep running my Samsung air conditioner when error code 33 appears?
No, you should not attempt to force the system to run while error code 33 is active. The fault indicates the compressor is overheating, and continued operation under these conditions can cause permanent compressor failure. Allow the unit to cool down before any restart attempt, and address the underlying cause before returning the system to service.
How much does it cost to repair a Samsung air conditioner showing error code 33?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the cause. Cleaning the condenser coil or clearing airflow obstructions may cost little to nothing if done yourself, or between $75 and $200 if performed by a technician. Refrigerant recharge typically ranges from $150 to $400 depending on refrigerant type and the amount needed. Compressor replacement is the most expensive scenario and can range from $600 to $1,500 or more, including parts and labor.
Can I fix error code 33 on my Samsung air conditioner myself?
Some causes of error code 33 can be addressed without a technician, including clearing debris or obstructions from around the outdoor unit and cleaning a dirty condenser coil. However, refrigerant diagnosis and recharge require licensed HVAC equipment and certification, and a locked compressor requires professional evaluation and likely component replacement. Start with the non-invasive checks before calling a technician.
Will resetting my Samsung air conditioner clear error code 33?
A power reset may temporarily clear the fault and allow a restart if the compressor has cooled sufficiently, but the error will return if the underlying cause is not corrected. Repeatedly resetting the unit without addressing the root cause risks shortening compressor life or causing complete compressor failure. Treat the code as a warning that requires investigation, not just a reset.

Related Samsung air conditioner error codes

All Samsung air conditioner codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass