Fujitsu air conditioner A1 error code: discharge temperature too high
Also shown as EA1
- Urgency
- High
- Who can fix it
- Technician job
- Time
- About 15 min
- Repair cost
- $300–$1500
What the A1 code means
Error A1 on a Fujitsu mini-split is a discharge temperature error. The compressor's discharge temperature reached 230°F (110°C) twice within 24 hours, so the outdoor unit stopped. Low refrigerant is a common cause. The lamps show 10 operation blinks and 1 timer blink.
When the compressor squeezes refrigerant gas, the gas heats up. With a normal charge and airflow, that heat is carried away. With too little refrigerant, a blocked valve or poor outdoor airflow, the gas leaving the compressor runs much hotter. The outdoor unit stops the compressor before it is damaged.
Because Fujitsu only shows A1 after the limit is hit twice in 24 hours, the problem is real by the time you see the code. A reset may let the unit run for a while, but the cause needs fixing.
Common causes
Listed from most to least common.
- Low refrigerant from a leak
- Service (3-way) valve not fully open after installation
- Expansion valve (EEV) or strainer blocked or faulty
- Outdoor fan or dirty outdoor coil cutting airflow
- Discharge thermistor faulty
How to fix the A1 code
Unplug the air conditioner or switch it off at the breaker before removing any panel or filter.
Step 1: Reset the power once
Switch off the breaker and disconnect for 5 minutes, then restart the system.
Step 2: Clean around the outdoor unit
Clear leaves, snow and plants from around the outdoor unit. With the power off, rinse the coil gently from the top down with a garden hose. Do not use a pressure washer.
Step 3: Look for signs of a leak
Weak cooling or heating over several weeks, or oily stains at the pipe joints, point to a leak. Note this for the technician.
Step 4: Leave it off if A1 returns
Running the compressor hot and short of refrigerant can damage it. Turn the system off and book service.
You'll need: Garden hose, work gloves.
How to reset the Fujitsu air conditioner
- Turn the system off with the remote or wired controller.
- Switch off the breaker for the system, and the outdoor disconnect switch if there is one. Leave the power off for at least 5 minutes.
- Restore power and turn the unit back on. The compressor normally waits a few minutes before starting, so give it time before judging.
- If the same code or blink pattern comes back, the fault is still there. Work through the fix steps above, or call a Fujitsu contractor or other licensed HVAC technician.
Parts that may need replacing
Check your model number on the label inside the door or on the back before ordering.
- Coil cleaner (no-rinse)Check prices
When to call a technician
A1 needs a licensed HVAC technician with EPA certification. Fujitsu's checks include the 3-way valve, the expansion valve and strainer, the outdoor fan and coil, the discharge thermistor and a refrigerant leak check.
A typical repair for this code costs $300–$1500 in the US, including parts and labor. Prices vary by area and model.
Models this applies to
- Halcyon wall-mounted mini-splits (ASU indoor, AOU outdoor)
- Halcyon floor, ceiling cassette and slim duct units (AGU, AUU, ARU)
- Halcyon multi-zone systems (RLF series)
- Ducted and ceiling-suspended units (RGLX, RULX series)
Codes can differ slightly between models. Your owner's manual is the final word and is available from Fujitsu support.
Frequently asked questions
›How many blinks is error A1?
The operation lamp blinks 10 times and the timer lamp blinks once, with the economy lamp flashing continuously. Ten operation blinks stand for the letter A.
›Can I recharge the refrigerant myself?
No. In the US, handling refrigerant requires EPA certification, and a leak must be found and repaired before a recharge will last.
›What is the difference between A1 and A3?
A1 is based on the discharge pipe temperature. A3 is based on the compressor's own temperature reaching about 226°F (108°C). Both have similar causes, including low refrigerant.