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Error code reference

Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code E473

Inverter compressor starting failure (5 times).

Samsung codesSamsung air conditioner codes

Inverter compressor starting failure (5 times).

First step from the service manual

Check service valve, EEV, compressor terminal, compressor wire, and outdoor controller.

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

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  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
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What E473 means on a Samsung air conditioner

Samsung error code E473 indicates that the inverter compressor has failed to start successfully five consecutive times. The inverter compressor in a Samsung mini-split or central air conditioning system relies on a variable-frequency drive within the outdoor controller board to ramp up motor speed gradually. When the compressor cannot achieve proper rotation and back-EMF feedback within the expected startup window, the controller logs a failed attempt. After five such failures in sequence, E473 is triggered and the system shuts down to prevent compressor damage from repeated stall conditions.

The most common mechanical cause is a closed or partially closed service valve, which creates excessive head pressure that the compressor cannot overcome during startup. A faulty or stuck Electronic Expansion Valve (EEV) can cause similar pressure imbalances by restricting refrigerant flow at the wrong moment. On the electrical side, a damaged compressor terminal connection, corroded wiring harness, or open winding in the compressor motor itself will prevent the inverter drive from detecting proper phase response, also resulting in startup failure.

Diagnosis should begin at the service valves to confirm they are fully open, then move to checking EEV operation and resistance, inspecting compressor terminals for corrosion or looseness, verifying continuity and resistance across compressor motor windings, and examining the outdoor controller board for burnt traces or failed components. Refrigerant charge should also be verified, as both overcharge and undercharge conditions can prevent successful compressor startup.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E473

  1. 01

    Closed or Partially Closed Service Valve

    Wiring / connection

    If a service valve on the outdoor unit was not fully reopened after maintenance, the compressor faces excessive pressure resistance at startup and cannot turn. Visually inspect both the liquid and suction service valves to confirm they are fully open.

  2. 02

    Faulty or Stuck Electronic Expansion Valve (EEV)

    Part replacement

    A malfunctioning EEV can restrict refrigerant flow at startup, creating pressure conditions the compressor cannot overcome. Check EEV coil resistance and verify the valve responds to control signals from the outdoor board.

  3. 03

    Damaged Compressor Terminal or Wiring

    Part replacement

    Corroded, loose, or broken terminals at the compressor connection point disrupt the inverter drive's ability to deliver startup current correctly. Inspect all three compressor terminals and the wiring harness for signs of arcing, corrosion, or physical damage.

  4. 04

    Failed Outdoor Controller Board

    Part replacement

    The outdoor controller board contains the inverter drive circuitry responsible for compressor startup sequencing. A failed inverter module or burnt control board can prevent proper startup signals from reaching the compressor.

  5. 05

    Compressor Motor Winding Failure

    Part replacement

    An open or shorted winding inside the compressor motor will cause repeated startup failures regardless of external conditions. Check resistance across each pair of compressor terminals to identify winding faults.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E473

What does E473 mean on a Samsung air conditioner?
E473 means the inverter compressor failed to start successfully five times in a row. Samsung's outdoor unit controller monitors each startup attempt and locks out the system after five consecutive failures to protect the compressor from damage. The root cause can be mechanical, refrigerant-related, or electrical in nature.
Can I fix E473 on my Samsung air conditioner myself?
Some basic checks are safe for a homeowner, such as confirming the service valves on the outdoor unit are fully open. However, diagnosing the EEV, compressor wiring, refrigerant pressure, and outdoor controller board requires specialized tools and HVAC training. Most causes of E473 require a qualified technician to repair safely.
Is it safe to keep running my Samsung AC when E473 is displayed?
The system will not operate normally when E473 is active because it has already shut down to protect the compressor. Attempting to force repeated restarts without fixing the underlying problem can cause additional damage to the compressor or outdoor controller board. Leave the unit off until a technician has diagnosed and corrected the fault.
Will resetting my Samsung air conditioner clear the E473 error?
A power reset may temporarily clear the error and allow the unit to attempt startup again, but if the underlying fault is still present, the system will fail five more times and re-display E473. A reset is useful for confirming whether a transient condition caused the fault, but it is not a fix. The root cause must be identified and corrected to permanently resolve the code.
How much does it cost to repair a Samsung air conditioner showing E473?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the cause. Correcting a closed service valve or loose wiring connection may cost relatively little beyond a service call fee, typically in the range of $75 to $200. Replacing a faulty EEV can run $150 to $400 in parts and labor. A failed outdoor controller board or compressor replacement represents the most expensive outcome, often ranging from $400 to $1,500 or more depending on the system size and parts availability.

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