Samsung Air Conditioner Error Code P517

P517 indicates that discharge temperature sensor 2 on the outdoor unit has registered a temperature high enough to trigger the system's compressor protection control. The air conditioner shuts down or reduces operation to prevent damage to the compressor. The root cause must be identified and corrected before normal operation resumes.

No, you should not attempt to override or repeatedly restart the unit while P517 is active. This code represents a compressor protection event, and continued operation under the fault condition risks permanent compressor damage. The unit should remain off until the cause is found and corrected.

Repair costs depend heavily on the root cause. Cleaning condenser coils is a relatively low-cost service call, typically in the range of $75 to $200. Refrigerant recharge and leak repair can range from $200 to $600 or more depending on the refrigerant type and leak location. Replacing a discharge temperature sensor typically falls in the $100 to $300 range for parts and labor, while a failed outdoor fan motor replacement can cost $200 to $500.

Some causes, such as cleaning blocked condenser coils or improving airflow around the outdoor unit, can be handled by a homeowner. However, diagnosing refrigerant charge issues, testing the discharge temperature sensor, or inspecting the fan motor requires proper tools and training. If cleaning the outdoor unit and clearing any airflow obstructions does not resolve the code, a certified HVAC technician should be called.

A reset may temporarily clear the code and allow the unit to restart, but if the underlying condition has not been resolved, P517 will return, often within a short operating period. Repeated resets without addressing the root cause increase the risk of compressor damage. A reset should only be performed after the fault has been diagnosed and corrected.