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Error code reference

Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code P510

Compressor down by low pressure sensor protection control 1.

Samsung codesSamsung air conditioner codes

Compressor down by low pressure sensor protection control 1.

First step from the service manual

Check service valves, EEV operation, refrigerant charge.

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

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What P510 means on a Samsung air conditioner

Error code P510 on a Samsung air conditioner indicates that the unit has shut down the compressor due to a low pressure sensor protection control event. The low pressure sensor monitors refrigerant pressure on the suction side of the refrigeration circuit. When pressure drops below the acceptable operating threshold, the control board triggers this protection shutdown to prevent compressor damage from running in a low-refrigerant or low-load condition. This is a safety function, not a random fault, meaning the system detected a genuine out-of-range pressure condition before cutting operation.

The three most common sources of this fault are closed or partially closed service valves, a malfunctioning electronic expansion valve (EEV), or an insufficient refrigerant charge. Closed service valves restrict refrigerant flow into the compressor, causing suction pressure to collapse rapidly. A faulty EEV that fails to open properly produces the same effect by starving the low side of the circuit. Low refrigerant charge due to a leak will also cause sustained low suction pressure and trigger this code repeatedly.

Diagnosis should begin with confirming both service valves are fully open, then observing EEV operation for proper stepping and response. A set of manifold gauges should be connected to check actual suction and discharge pressures against the expected values for the operating conditions. If refrigerant charge is confirmed low, the system must be leak-checked before recharging, as simply adding refrigerant without locating the leak will result in repeat faults.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of P510

  1. 01

    Low refrigerant charge due to a leak

    Wiring / connection

    A refrigerant leak reduces the amount of refrigerant circulating through the system, causing suction pressure to fall below the minimum threshold. Repeated P510 faults after a reset, especially in warm weather, strongly suggest a leak that needs to be located and repaired before recharging.

  2. 02

    Closed or partially closed service valves

    Wiring / connection

    If the service valves on the outdoor unit were not fully opened during installation or after maintenance, refrigerant flow to the compressor is restricted and low-side pressure will drop quickly. Inspect both the liquid and suction line service valves and confirm they are fully open.

  3. 03

    Malfunctioning electronic expansion valve (EEV)

    Part replacement

    The EEV controls refrigerant flow into the evaporator. If the valve is stuck closed, clogged, or has a failed stepper motor, suction pressure will collapse and trigger the P510 shutdown. Check EEV operation by observing its stepping response during startup.

  4. 04

    Faulty low pressure sensor

    Part replacement

    If the low pressure sensor itself is reading incorrectly low due to a wiring fault or a failed sensor element, the control board will trigger the protection shutdown even when actual system pressure is normal. Compare sensor readings against gauge manifold readings to identify a discrepancy.

  5. 05

    Refrigerant flow restriction or blockage

    Part replacement

    A clogged filter drier, a kinked refrigerant line, or a partially blocked liquid line can starve the low side of the circuit and cause suction pressure to drop. Look for frost formation on the liquid line or unusually low suction line temperatures as indicators of a restriction.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about P510

What does P510 mean on a Samsung air conditioner?
P510 is a compressor protection shutdown triggered by the low pressure sensor detecting suction pressure below the safe operating limit. The system stops the compressor to prevent internal damage from running under low-refrigerant or restricted-flow conditions. The fault points to issues with refrigerant charge, service valve position, or the electronic expansion valve. A technician should inspect the system with manifold gauges before restarting.
Can I fix a P510 error myself?
Some basic checks are within reach of a knowledgeable homeowner, such as confirming the service valves are fully open and visually inspecting the refrigerant lines for obvious kinks or frost. However, checking refrigerant pressure, diagnosing the EEV, and handling refrigerant require certified HVAC technicians and specialized equipment. Attempting to add refrigerant without the proper tools and certification is not recommended and may be illegal.
Is it safe to keep running the air conditioner when P510 is displayed?
The unit has already shut down the compressor automatically, so it will not run in its current state. Do not attempt to repeatedly reset and force the system to restart without addressing the root cause. Running a compressor under low pressure conditions can cause serious internal damage, turning a relatively inexpensive refrigerant or valve repair into a costly compressor replacement.
How much does it cost to repair a P510 error on a Samsung air conditioner?
Repair costs vary significantly depending on the cause. A service valve adjustment or a minor refrigerant top-off after leak repair may cost anywhere from $150 to $400 for labor and refrigerant. An EEV replacement or pressure sensor replacement typically runs $200 to $600 depending on the unit and labor rates. If the compressor has sustained damage from repeated low-pressure operation, costs can rise substantially higher.
Will resetting the air conditioner clear the P510 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the fault and allow the unit to start, but if the underlying pressure problem has not been corrected, P510 will return quickly. Repeated resets without repair risk damaging the compressor. The error should be treated as a diagnostic alert requiring inspection with manifold gauges and a review of service valve position and EEV operation before the system is returned to normal use.

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