mypros+
Error code reference

Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code E506

Error due to self diagnosis of low pressure sensor.

Samsung codesSamsung air conditioner codes

Error due to self diagnosis of low pressure sensor.

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for E506.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What E506 means on a Samsung air conditioner

The E506 error code on a Samsung air conditioner indicates a self-diagnosis fault detected within the low pressure sensor circuit. The low pressure sensor monitors refrigerant pressure on the suction side of the refrigeration cycle, which is the low-pressure side between the evaporator and the compressor inlet. When the system performs its internal self-check and detects that the sensor is returning a value outside of the expected operating range, or detects an open or short circuit in the sensor wiring, it triggers E506 and halts normal operation to protect the compressor and refrigerant circuit from potential damage.

The low pressure sensor is a critical safety and control component. It allows the control board to verify that suction pressure remains within safe limits during operation. If pressure drops too low, the compressor can be damaged by liquid refrigerant slugging or loss of lubrication. Causes of E506 can include a faulty sensor that is sending an out-of-range signal, wiring damage such as a broken lead or corroded connector between the sensor and the control board, or an actual refrigerant undercharge condition that causes pressure to fall below the sensor's detectable threshold.

In some cases, the error may also appear after a refrigerant leak has reduced system charge to a critically low level, causing true low pressure that the sensor correctly identifies as abnormal. Distinguishing between a sensor fault and a genuine low-pressure condition requires measuring actual suction pressure with a manifold gauge set and verifying the sensor's electrical signal output against specifications. A technician should inspect sensor wiring and connectors first before condemning the sensor or assuming a refrigerant issue.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E506

  1. 01

    Faulty low pressure sensor

    Part replacement

    The sensor itself may have failed internally, causing it to send a signal outside the acceptable range during self-diagnosis. This is one of the most common causes and requires replacing the sensor.

  2. 02

    Wiring or connector fault

    Wiring / connection

    Damaged wiring, a loose connector, or corrosion at the sensor connector can cause an open or short circuit that the control board interprets as a sensor error. Inspect the sensor harness and connector for visible damage or oxidation.

  3. 03

    Low refrigerant charge

    Wiring / connection

    If the system has lost refrigerant due to a leak, actual suction pressure may have dropped below the sensor's minimum detectable threshold, triggering a legitimate low-pressure fault. A manifold gauge check will confirm if refrigerant charge is low.

  4. 04

    Control board fault

    Part replacement

    A defective main control board may misread the sensor signal or fail to properly process it during self-diagnosis. This is less common and should only be suspected after the sensor and wiring have been ruled out.

  5. 05

    Refrigerant leak

    Wiring / connection

    An active refrigerant leak can cause suction pressure to drop rapidly, triggering the error repeatedly even after recharging. The system should be leak-tested before adding refrigerant.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E506

What does E506 mean on a Samsung air conditioner?
E506 indicates that the Samsung air conditioner has detected a fault through its self-diagnosis routine involving the low pressure sensor. The low pressure sensor monitors the refrigerant suction pressure on the low side of the refrigeration cycle. The error can point to a failed sensor, a wiring problem, or an actual low refrigerant pressure condition. The unit shuts down to protect the compressor from operating under unsafe pressure conditions.
Can I fix the E506 error on my Samsung air conditioner myself?
Some basic checks, such as inspecting the sensor wiring and connector for visible damage or corrosion, can be done without specialized tools. However, diagnosing whether the sensor has actually failed or whether the refrigerant charge is low requires a manifold gauge set and EPA certification to handle refrigerants. Most repairs beyond wiring inspection should be handled by a qualified HVAC technician.
Is it safe to run my Samsung air conditioner with an E506 error?
No, you should not continue operating the unit with an active E506 fault. The error indicates a problem with the component that protects the compressor from low-pressure damage. Running the compressor without proper low-pressure monitoring risks serious damage to the compressor, which is one of the most expensive components in the system.
How much does it cost to repair an E506 error on a Samsung air conditioner?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. A low pressure sensor replacement typically falls in the range of $100 to $300 including parts and labor. If the system requires refrigerant recharge due to a leak, costs can range from $200 to $600 or more depending on refrigerant type and leak repair complexity. A control board replacement, if needed, can add $300 to $700 or more to the repair cost.
Will resetting my Samsung air conditioner clear the E506 error?
A power reset may temporarily clear the E506 error, but it will return if the underlying fault is still present. If the sensor is defective, the wiring is damaged, or refrigerant pressure remains low, the unit will re-trigger the error during its self-diagnosis cycle upon restart. A reset is useful for confirming whether the error is intermittent, but it is not a fix and should not be relied upon as a solution.

Related Samsung air conditioner codes

All Samsung air conditioner codes
View all 572 Samsung air conditioner codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass