GE air conditioner HS error code: electric heat sensor error (wall unit)

What the HS code means

HS on a GE through-the-wall or built-in wall air conditioner with electric heat means the electric heating sensor has an error. GE's AKCQ and AJCQ manuals say to unplug the unit, plug it back in, and call for service if the code repeats.

Wall units with electric heat use a sensor near the heating element to watch its temperature. If that reading drops out or makes no sense, the control cannot run the heater safely, so it stops and shows HS.

Dust on the heater burning off at the start of the season can smell, but it does not cause HS. The code points to the sensor circuit.

Common causes

Listed from most to least common.

1. Electric heat sensor failed
2. Sensor plug loose on the control board
3. Sensor wire damaged near the heater
4. Brief power glitch
5. Control board fault

How to fix the HS code

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

1. 1

   Step 1: Turn the unit off

   Switch off the unit with the control panel or remote.

2. 2

   Step 2: Unplug it

   Unplug the unit, or turn off its breaker, for 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Step 3: Restore power

   Plug it back in and press RESET on the cord plug if it has one. Try Cool mode first, then Heat.

4. 4

   Step 4: Call for service if it repeats

   If HS comes back, stop using the heat and call GE Appliances 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 HS returns after a reset, the heater sensor or its wiring needs testing. The electric heater runs at high current, so do not open the unit. Book a technician.

A typical repair for this code costs $150–$350 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