GE air conditioner AS error code: room temperature sensor error (wall unit)

What the AS code means

AS on a GE through-the-wall or built-in wall air conditioner, such as the AKCQ and AJCQ series, means the room temperature sensor has failed or is giving a bad reading. GE says to unplug the unit and plug it back in, and call for service if the error repeats.

The room sensor measures the air coming into the unit, so the control knows when the room has reached the set temperature. If its reading drops out or makes no sense, the control stops and shows AS.

A one-off AS after a power cut can clear with a reset. If it returns, the sensor, its wire or the board is at fault.

Common causes

Listed from most to least common.

1. Room temperature sensor failed
2. Sensor plug loose on the control board
3. Sensor wire damaged
4. Brief power glitch
5. Control board fault

How to fix the AS code

Unplug the air conditioner or switch it off at the breaker before removing any panel or filter.

1. 1

   Step 1: Unplug the unit

   Turn the unit off and unplug it, or switch off its breaker, for 5 minutes.

2. 2

   Step 2: Clean the filter

   GE notes the temperature sensor sits behind the air filter. While the power is off, remove the filter, clean it and refit it so air flows freely over the sensor.

3. 3

   Step 3: Restore power

   Plug the unit back in, press RESET on the cord plug if it has one, and turn it on.

4. 4

   Step 4: Call for service if it repeats

   If AS comes back, GE says to call for service.

How to reset the GE air conditioner

1. Turn the air conditioner off with the remote or the control panel.
2. Unplug the unit for 5 minutes. If the power cord plug has a RESET button, press it when you plug back in. A wall unit on a dedicated circuit can be reset at the breaker instead.
3. Plug it back in and turn it on. GE builds in a protective delay of about 3 minutes before the compressor starts, so give it time before judging.
4. If the same code comes back straight away, the fault is still there. Work through the fix steps above, or call a technician.

When to call a technician

If AS returns after unplugging the unit, a technician needs to test and likely replace the room sensor or check the control board. Wall units are heavy and wired in a sleeve, so leave the repair to a professional.

A typical repair for this code costs $120–$300 in the US, including parts and labor. Prices vary by area and model.

Models this applies to

• GE Profile ClearView and GE ClearView saddle window units (PHNT, AHTT)
• Portable air conditioners (APCA, APCD, APSA, APWA series)
• Through-the-wall and built-in wall units (AKCQ, AJCQ series)

Codes can differ slightly between models. Your owner's manual is the final word and is available from GE support.

Frequently asked questions