York air conditioner displays E3 and shuts down shortly after starting

Safety: Disconnect power at the outdoor disconnect and indoor breaker. Components around the compressor can be very hot.

• Clean the condenser coil: Remove the top grille of the York condensing unit (support the fan assembly) and clean the coil from inside out with low‑pressure water. Avoid bending fins.
• Check condenser fan: Spin the fan blade by hand (power off). If stiff or noisy, the motor bearings may be failing. Test the fan capacitor with a meter and replace if out of tolerance.
• Inspect for airflow obstructions: Ensure at least 2–3 feet of clearance around the unit and no hot exhaust blowing onto it.
• Filter‑drier and liquid line: If the liquid line filter‑drier is cold with a big temperature drop across it or visibly frosted, it may be restricted and should be replaced by a technician.
• Refrigerant issues: Overcharge or non‑condensables require a licensed tech to recover, evacuate, and recharge per York nameplate data.