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Error code reference

Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code E308

Suction temperature sensor open/short error

Samsung codesSamsung air conditioner codes

Suction temperature sensor open/short error - connector dislocation, wire breaking, or defective sensor.

First step from the service manual

Check if suction sensor wire is broken and check sensor connection circuit.

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

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  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
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What E308 means on a Samsung air conditioner

Error code E308 on a Samsung air conditioner indicates a fault with the suction temperature sensor, also referred to as the return air or inlet refrigerant temperature sensor. This sensor monitors the temperature of the refrigerant or air entering the indoor unit's evaporator section, providing feedback to the control board for proper system regulation. When the control board detects a signal from this sensor that falls outside the expected resistance or voltage range, it classifies the fault as either an open circuit or a short circuit condition and triggers E308 to halt operation and protect the system.

An open circuit error means the electrical path between the sensor and the control board has been broken, resulting in no signal reaching the board. A short circuit error means two conductors in the sensor circuit are making unintended contact, producing an out-of-range reading. Both conditions prevent accurate temperature monitoring. The three primary causes are a physically disconnected or dislodged connector at the sensor or board, a broken wire anywhere along the sensor harness, or a sensor thermistor that has failed internally and no longer produces a correct resistance value.

Diagnosis should begin by inspecting the suction sensor wiring harness for visible damage, pinching, or corrosion, and confirming the connector is fully seated at both the sensor end and the control board end. If the wiring appears intact, the sensor itself should be tested for resistance using a multimeter and compared against the expected resistance curve for the operating temperature range. A sensor reading open or shorted at room temperature confirms the component has failed and requires replacement.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E308

  1. 01

    Disconnected or dislodged sensor connector

    Wiring / connection

    The connector linking the suction temperature sensor to the control board can work loose over time due to vibration or improper handling during previous service. Inspect both ends of the sensor harness and press each connector firmly until it clicks into place.

  2. 02

    Broken or damaged sensor wiring

    Part replacement

    The sensor wire can break internally or at a bend point, especially if it has been pinched by a panel or routed near a sharp edge. Run continuity checks along the full length of the harness to locate any break in the conductor.

  3. 03

    Failed suction temperature sensor thermistor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor element inside the sensor can fail open or short internally, producing an out-of-range resistance reading even when the wiring and connector are intact. Testing with a multimeter at a known ambient temperature will reveal if the sensor resistance is outside specification.

  4. 04

    Corrosion at the sensor connector pins

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture intrusion into the connector housing can cause pin corrosion that increases resistance to the point the control board reads the circuit as open. Inspect the connector pins for oxidation or discoloration and clean or replace the connector as needed.

  5. 05

    Control board fault affecting sensor input circuit

    Part replacement

    In rare cases, the sensor input circuit on the main control board itself can fail, causing the board to misread a functioning sensor as open or shorted. This should only be considered after the sensor and all wiring have been confirmed good.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E308

What does E308 mean on a Samsung air conditioner?
E308 indicates a suction temperature sensor open or short circuit error. The control board has detected that the sensor monitoring the return air or refrigerant inlet temperature is either not sending a signal or is sending a signal outside the acceptable range. The cause is typically a loose connector, a broken wire in the sensor harness, or a failed sensor thermistor. The unit stops operating until the fault is resolved to protect the system.
Can I fix E308 on my Samsung air conditioner myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can check for a dislodged connector and reseat it, which sometimes clears the error without any parts. Inspecting the wiring harness for obvious breaks or pinching is also a reasonable first step. However, testing sensor resistance and replacing the thermistor or control board requires basic electrical knowledge and a multimeter. If you are not comfortable working inside the unit, a licensed technician should perform the repair.
Is it safe to keep running my air conditioner with error code E308?
The unit will typically shut itself down when E308 is active, so continued operation is usually not possible without clearing the fault. Attempting to bypass or ignore the error is not recommended, since the suction temperature sensor provides critical data for refrigerant and compressor management. Running the system without accurate sensor input could lead to improper cooling performance or compressor damage over time.
How much does it cost to repair a Samsung air conditioner showing E308?
If the fix is simply reseating a loose connector, there may be no parts cost and only a service call fee, which typically ranges from $75 to $150. If the suction temperature sensor needs replacement, parts and labor combined generally range from $100 to $250 depending on the unit model and local labor rates. A control board replacement, if required, can push total repair costs to $250 to $600 or more.
Will resetting my Samsung air conditioner clear the E308 error?
A power reset by turning the unit off and removing power for a few minutes may temporarily clear the error code, but it will return if the underlying wiring or sensor fault is still present. A reset is useful for confirming whether the fault is intermittent or persistent, but it does not fix a broken wire, failed sensor, or damaged connector. The physical cause of the open or short circuit must be identified and corrected for the error to stay cleared.

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