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Error code reference

Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code E2

Tracking error

Samsung codesSamsung air conditioner codes

Tracking error - communication check failure where the number of indoor units detected during tracking does not match the installed indoor unit number setting switch.

First step from the service manual

Compare the setting switch setup value for indoor unit installation number on outdoor unit PCB with the actual indoor unit installation number.

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

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What E2 means on a Samsung air conditioner

The Samsung E2 error code indicates a tracking error caused by a communication mismatch between the outdoor unit and the indoor units in a multi-split or VRF system. During the system initialization and tracking process, the outdoor unit PCB scans the network to detect and count how many indoor units are connected and communicating. If the number of indoor units the outdoor unit detects during this tracking sequence does not match the number programmed into the indoor unit quantity setting switch on the outdoor unit PCB, the system halts and triggers the E2 fault.

The setting switch on the outdoor unit PCB is a physical DIP switch or rotary dial that must be configured to reflect the exact number of indoor units installed in the system. If this value was set incorrectly during installation, or if a communication fault is preventing one or more indoor units from responding during the tracking scan, the mismatch will occur. Common contributors include incorrect switch configuration, failed indoor unit PCBs, damaged or miswired communication lines between units, or address conflicts on the communication bus.

Diagnosing E2 starts by comparing the setting switch value on the outdoor unit PCB against the actual number of indoor units physically installed and connected. If the switch is correctly set, the next step is to verify that all indoor unit communication wiring is intact, properly terminated, and free of shorts or open circuits. Each indoor unit should also be checked for power and PCB functionality, as a unit that is powered off or has a failed control board will not respond during the tracking sequence.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E2

  1. 01

    Incorrect indoor unit quantity setting switch

    Wiring / connection

    The DIP switch or rotary setting switch on the outdoor unit PCB is programmed to a number that does not match how many indoor units are actually installed. This is the most common cause and is identified by directly comparing the switch setting to the physical unit count.

  2. 02

    Communication wiring fault

    Wiring / connection

    A broken, shorted, or incorrectly wired communication line between the outdoor unit and one or more indoor units will prevent those units from responding during tracking. Inspect all inter-unit communication cables for continuity, correct terminal connections, and insulation damage.

  3. 03

    Indoor unit not powered or offline

    Wiring / connection

    If one or more indoor units are not receiving power, their control boards cannot participate in the tracking sequence, causing a count mismatch. Verify that each indoor unit has proper voltage supply at its PCB.

  4. 04

    Failed indoor unit PCB

    Part replacement

    A defective control board in one of the indoor units may prevent it from communicating even when powered, causing the outdoor unit to detect fewer units than configured. Swapping or testing the suspect PCB will confirm this cause.

  5. 05

    Communication bus address conflict

    Wiring / connection

    In systems with multiple indoor units, duplicate or incorrectly assigned address settings among indoor units can disrupt the tracking process. Check that each indoor unit has a unique address assignment as required by the system configuration.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E2

What does E2 mean on a Samsung air conditioner?
The E2 code on a Samsung air conditioner indicates a tracking error. During startup, the outdoor unit scans the system to count connected indoor units, and if that count does not match the number programmed into the setting switch on the outdoor unit PCB, E2 is triggered. This is a communication configuration fault and requires verification of both the switch setting and the communication wiring throughout the system.
How do I fix the E2 error on a Samsung air conditioner?
Start by locating the indoor unit quantity setting switch on the outdoor unit PCB and confirming it is set to match the exact number of indoor units installed. If the switch setting is correct, inspect all communication wiring between the outdoor and indoor units for damage, loose connections, or incorrect termination. Also verify that every indoor unit is powered on and that none of the indoor unit control boards have failed. In some cases, correcting the switch or repairing a wiring fault is all that is needed to clear the error.
Is it safe to keep running my air conditioner with an E2 error?
No, the system will typically shut down or refuse to operate normally when E2 is active, as the outdoor unit cannot confirm the correct system configuration. Attempting to force the system to run in this state is not recommended, as the unit may not distribute refrigerant or control operation correctly across all zones. The fault should be diagnosed and corrected before resuming normal use.
Will resetting the unit clear the E2 error on a Samsung air conditioner?
A power reset may temporarily clear the error, but if the underlying cause is not corrected, the E2 code will return as soon as the system performs its tracking sequence again on startup. The mismatch between the detected indoor unit count and the setting switch value must be resolved for the error to stay cleared. Simply resetting the unit without addressing the root cause is not a lasting fix.
How much does it cost to repair an E2 error on a Samsung air conditioner?
If the cause is only a misconfigured setting switch, the repair cost may be limited to a service call fee, typically in the range of $75 to $150. If communication wiring needs to be repaired or replaced, labor costs will increase depending on the extent of the wiring run. A failed indoor unit PCB is the most expensive scenario, with replacement boards and labor potentially ranging from $200 to $600 or more depending on the unit model and system size.

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