220V system not powering on (new install or previously working)

Modified on Thu, 8 Oct at 2:13 PM

Short answer: start by measuring the voltage between L1 and L2 at the outdoor unit. It should read 220V. 0V means a power supply or wiring problem; 220V with no response points to a control board, display or remote. These checks must be done by a certified HVAC contractor or electrician.

New installation that has never powered on

  1. Check the power requirements on the nameplate on the right side of the outdoor unit. All 220V systems need a double-pole breaker with two hot wires and a ground (no neutral).
  2. Measure L1 to L2 with a multimeter set to AC voltage. It should read 220V. 0V means no power is reaching the outdoor unit: check the wiring and the disconnect box, then the panel. Have an electrician correct any discrepancy.
  3. If you have 220V, check the indoor unit. Press the auto-cool button once (sets 76°F / 24°C) and listen for a beep. If the display doesn't light, disconnect and reconnect it; if it still doesn't light, the display may need replacing.
  4. If the display works, check the remote batteries and try again. If the unit still doesn't respond, the remote or the infrared receiver on the display may be faulty.

System that was working and stopped powering on

This is often caused by a power outage, lightning strike or surge, which can damage the outdoor control board and stop power reaching the inverter board.

  • 220V between L1 and L2: the outdoor control board is likely faulty and may need replacing.
  • 0V: the problem is the incoming power supply. Have an electrician inspect it, as a surge may have caused other damage.

Order a part or get help

Submit a support ticket with your voltage readings, a photo of the model/serial label (where to find it) and whether the system ever worked.

Have a 110V system? See 110V system not powering on.

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