System Diagnosis
Compressor protector trip.
Rheem AC and Heat Pump
Error Code P
Troubleshooting guide for the Rheem AC and Heat Pump system fault P.
Disclaimer: This information is for general reference. Error codes can vary by model and production year. Always refer to your machine's specific manual and the information printed on the unit itself.
Potential Causes & Solutions
- Command for compressor operation is present but no compressor current is measured.
- Check compressor wiring, contactor, capacitor/start components, thermal overload, line voltage, and compressor condition.
Verify Before Replacing Parts
- Confirm the exact Rheem model family and ac and heat pump context before acting on a generic code description.
- Verify current draw, overload status, and control signal before condemning the compressor or drive.
- Look for upstream conditions such as airflow or charge issues that may be pushing the compressor into protection.
- After the correction, run the system long enough to confirm the code does not return under normal load.
Field Signals to Confirm
What usually confirms it
Protection trips that line up with abnormal current draw, temperature, or drive behavior.
What can fool you
Upstream airflow or refrigerant issues can push the compressor into protection even when the compressor is healthy.
When to Escalate the Call
- The compressor or drive shows repeat protection events under normal load.
- You cannot separate compressor health from upstream system issues with confidence.
Not sure which system this Rheem code is on?
ACLogics has guided diagnostics for 57 Rheem fault codes and asks the right questions to narrow it down.
