E3
SMEG Low-Pressure Protection / Refrigerant Undercharge

E3 error appears and the outdoor unit stops; compressor shuts down quickly

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Refrigerant leak in SMEG indoor or outdoor coil, Loose flare connections on refrigerant lines, Blocked expansion device or capillary, Severely dirty indoor coil causing low suction pressure

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power at the breaker. Refrigerant handling must be done only by licensed personnel.

  • Visual leak inspection: Look for oil stains on flare joints, service valves, and around the indoor and outdoor coils. Oil residue often indicates a refrigerant leak.
  • Check indoor and outdoor coils for dirt: Clean both coils as per manufacturer guidelines to ensure proper heat exchange.
  • Do not run the unit continuously: Running with low refrigerant can damage the compressor. Use only briefly for testing.
  • Call a licensed technician: A professional must locate the leak, repair it, evacuate the system, and recharge with the correct refrigerant type and weight specified by SMEG.

Do not attempt to top up refrigerant without leak repair; this will cause recurring E3 and potential compressor failure.

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Repair Difficulty

Professional Required 5/5

Required Part

Refrigerant Circuit (Indoor/Outdoor Coils and Line Set)
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