Samsung Heat Pump Error Code E515

E515 indicates an oil temperature sensor error in the outdoor unit, caused by either an open circuit or a short circuit condition at the sensor or its wiring. The oil temperature sensor monitors compressor oil temperature to protect the compressor from damage. When the PCB receives no signal or an out-of-range signal from this sensor, it triggers E515 and halts operation as a protective measure.

No, you should not continue operating the heat pump while E515 is active. The system uses the oil temperature sensor reading to protect the compressor from running under unsafe lubrication conditions. Operating without a valid sensor signal risks serious compressor damage, which is a far more costly repair than addressing the sensor fault directly.

Repair costs depend on the root cause. If only the oil temperature sensor needs replacement, parts and labor typically range from around 100 to 300 dollars. If the outdoor PCB is found to be faulty, costs can rise to the range of 300 to 700 dollars or more depending on the unit model and labor rates in your area. Getting a diagnostic assessment from a technician before committing to parts is recommended.

The first step, checking whether the sensor connector is seated properly at the outdoor PCB, is something a confident DIYer can perform safely with the unit powered off. However, resistance testing of the sensor and replacing components on the outdoor PCB or refrigerant circuit involves working inside the outdoor unit, which is best handled by a qualified HVAC technician. Attempting repairs without proper knowledge of the system can result in further damage or safety hazards.

A power reset may temporarily clear the error display, but E515 will return if the underlying fault in the oil temperature sensor circuit has not been corrected. If the connector was simply loose, reseating it and resetting the unit may resolve the issue. If the sensor or wiring has actually failed, the error will reappear once the system attempts to read the sensor again.