Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code E236

Error code E236 on a Samsung inverter air conditioner indicates a fault with the discharge temperature sensor on the inverter compressor. This sensor monitors the temperature of the refrigerant gas as it exits the compressor, which is a critical parameter for protecting the compressor from overheating. The control board continuously reads the sensor's resistance value and compares it against a stored resistance-temperature (R/T) table. When the board detects a resistance value that falls outside the expected range, either too high (open circuit) or too low (short circuit), it triggers E236 and shuts down the compressor to prevent damage.

An open circuit condition occurs when the sensor circuit has a break, meaning resistance reads extremely high or infinite. A short circuit condition is the opposite, where resistance reads near zero due to an internal sensor failure or wiring fault. Both conditions produce readings that cannot correspond to any valid temperature on the R/T table. Common physical causes include a corroded or disconnected sensor connector, damaged wiring harness, or a failed sensor element itself. Because the compressor discharge line operates at elevated temperatures and pressures, the sensor and its wiring are exposed to thermal stress over time.

Diagnosis begins at the sensor connector, verifying it is fully seated and free of corrosion or pin damage. If the connector is intact, resistance across the sensor terminals should be measured and compared against the R/T table for the ambient temperature at the time of testing. A reading of near-zero ohms or infinite resistance confirms sensor failure. If resistance is within spec at the sensor but E236 persists, the wiring harness between the sensor and control board must be inspected for chafing, breaks, or short circuits to ground.