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Error code reference

Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code E173

Change of EVAP OUT temperature of other indoor unit during piping check.

Samsung codesSamsung air conditioner codes
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What the E173 error code actually means

Your Samsung multi-zone air conditioning system ran a self-test to make sure refrigerant is flowing to each indoor unit correctly, and it detected cooling activity in the wrong unit. This usually means the indoor units are not labeled or connected in the right order, or a valve controlling refrigerant flow is not working properly. A technician will need to check the wiring, settings, and refrigerant tubing to sort out the mismatch before the system will operate normally.

Diagnostic procedure

The full E173 procedure

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MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Check indoor unit address matches MCU; check EEV connection; verify piping connections.
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Most common causes of E173

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Indoor unit address mismatch
  2. 2Crossed or incorrectly routed refrigerant piping
  3. 3Faulty or disconnected EEV (Electronic Expansion Valve)
  4. 4EVAP OUT temperature sensor fault
  5. 5Wiring or communication error between indoor units and MCU

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Questions people ask about E173

What does E173 mean on a Samsung air conditioner?
E173 indicates that during the piping check commissioning procedure, the system detected an unexpected temperature change at the evaporator outlet sensor of an indoor unit other than the one being tested. This points to a refrigerant routing problem, an indoor unit address conflict, or an EEV issue that is allowing refrigerant to flow into the wrong circuit. The piping check cannot complete successfully until the underlying cause is identified and corrected.
Will resetting the system clear the E173 error code?
A power reset may temporarily clear the fault display, but the error will return when the system attempts the piping check again if the underlying cause has not been fixed. The piping check must complete successfully without detecting a cross-unit temperature response for E173 to clear permanently. Always resolve the root cause before rerunning the commissioning sequence.
How much does it cost to repair a Samsung air conditioner showing E173?
If the fix is simply correcting address settings or reseating a loose EEV connector, labor costs may be minimal, often in the range of $75 to $150 for a service call. If an EEV or temperature sensor needs replacement, parts and labor combined typically range from $150 to $400 depending on the unit model and local rates. Extensive piping corrections or control board replacements can push costs higher.
Can I fix E173 on my Samsung multi-split system myself?
Some causes, such as incorrect unit address settings, can be corrected without special tools by checking and adjusting DIP switches or software address configurations on each indoor unit. However, diagnosing EEV faults, tracing refrigerant piping, and rerunning the piping check typically require HVAC tools and technical knowledge. Homeowners should contact a qualified technician for anything involving refrigerant circuits or internal control boards.
Is it safe to run my air conditioner with an E173 error showing?
E173 occurs during the commissioning piping check phase, which means the system has not yet confirmed that refrigerant is routed correctly to each unit. Running the system in this state risks improper cooling distribution and potential stress on components if refrigerant is flowing through an unintended circuit. It is best to keep the system off until a technician has resolved the addressing or piping issue.

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