Frigidaire air conditioner LC error code: indoor and outdoor units not communicating (mini-split)
- Urgency
- High
- Who can fix it
- Moderate DIY
- Time
- About 20 min
- Repair cost
- $150–$600
What the LC code means
LC on a Frigidaire ductless air conditioner means the indoor and outdoor units have lost communication. The indoor unit may have power while the outdoor unit does not, or the wiring between them has a fault. Frigidaire says to reset the power and contact support if LC returns.
On a ductless system, the indoor and outdoor units talk constantly over a cable that runs with the refrigerant pipes. If the indoor unit stops hearing from the outdoor unit, it stops the system and shows LC.
If LC appeared on the first run after installation, a wiring mistake at the terminals is the most likely cause. Ask the installer to recheck the connections at both units before paying for parts.
Common causes
Listed from most to least common.
- Outdoor unit breaker tripped or disconnect switch off
- Power cut or surge that left the units out of step
- Connecting wire between the units loose, damaged or wired wrongly
- Indoor or outdoor control board fault
How to fix the LC code
Unplug the air conditioner or switch it off at the breaker before removing any panel or filter.
Step 1: Check the breakers
Look for a tripped breaker for the system, and check the disconnect switch next to the outdoor unit is on. Reset a tripped breaker once only.
Step 2: Reset both units
Turn off power to the indoor and outdoor units, wait 5 minutes and turn both back on together. Restart with the remote.
Step 3: Listen at the outdoor unit
After a few minutes in Cool or Heat, the outdoor fan and compressor should start. If it stays silent and LC returns, note it for the technician.
Step 4: Look along the line set
From a safe distance, look for crushed or chewed cable along the pipes between the units. Do not touch or open anything.
You'll need: Flashlight.
How to reset the Frigidaire air conditioner
- Turn the air conditioner off with the remote or the control panel.
- Cut the power. Frigidaire says to unplug window and portable units for about 30 seconds. For a mini-split, turn off its breaker for a few minutes.
- Restore power and turn the unit back on. The compressor normally waits about 3 minutes before starting, so give it time before judging.
- If the same code comes back, the fault is still there. Work through the fix steps above, or contact Frigidaire support.
When to call a technician
If LC returns after a reset, or a breaker trips again, a licensed HVAC technician needs to test the wiring and boards. Do not open the outdoor unit, as parts inside can hold a charge after the power is off.
A typical repair for this code costs $150–$600 in the US, including parts and labor. Prices vary by area and model.
Models this applies to
- Window air conditioners (including Frigidaire Gallery)
- Portable air conditioners
- Ductless mini-splits
Codes can differ slightly between models. Your owner's manual is the final word and is available from Frigidaire support.
Frequently asked questions
›Why is the indoor unit blowing air but not cooling with LC?
The indoor unit has power but cannot reach the outdoor unit, so the compressor never starts.
›Can a power outage cause LC?
Yes. A full power reset of both units often clears it.
›Does LC appear on window units?
A window or portable unit has no separate outdoor unit, so LC applies to split systems. On those units, a communication fault shows as EC.