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Rheem Error Code 4 flashes (L terminal): L-terminal fault output: Locked rotor (Heat Pump)

Updated · by Aurora Star Tech Inc.

Rheem error code 4 flashes (L terminal) on a heat pump means: L-terminal fault output: Locked rotor. It is also called Rheem diagnostic code 4 flashes (L terminal).

High severityHeat PumpRheem/Ruud PRL-JEC heat pump (Comfort Control2 ICC)

Homeowner? What Rheem code 4 flashes (L terminal) means for you

Call a technician Your heat pump is reporting: L-terminal fault output: Locked rotor. The heat pump has locked out or cannot run properly. One reset is fine; if the code comes back, it needs a licensed technician to find the cause.

Safe things you can check yourself

  • Check the thermostat: right mode (Heat or Cool), set a few degrees past room temperature, and fresh batteries if it uses them.
  • Check both breakers and the outdoor disconnect box beside the outdoor unit; all should be ON.
  • Look at the air filter. If it is grey and clogged, replace it; a blocked filter causes many shutdowns.
  • In winter, keep snow and ice off and away from the outdoor unit. A short defrost cycle with steam is normal.
  • Try one reset: turn the power off for 30 seconds, then back on. If the code comes back, stop resetting and call a technician.

Call (647) 657-2977Book a service call

Licensed technicians serving Vaughan, Toronto and the GTA.

What does Rheem error code 4 flashes (L terminal) mean?

Equivalent to code L4. Shown on an L-terminal compatible conventional thermostat when the unit is wired 24VAC (non-communicating).

Applies to: (-)PRL-JEC 2-stage 16 SEER heat pumps: RPRL/UPRL-024JEC, -036JEC, -048JEC, -060JEC

Common causes of Rheem code 4 flashes (L terminal)

  • Bad run capacitor
  • Low line voltage
  • Seized compressor
Safety: Gas, electrical and refrigerant work must be done by a licensed technician. Turn off power and gas before servicing, never bypass a safety control, and always follow the manufacturer's manual for your exact model.

Rheem models that use code 4 flashes (L terminal)

RPRL-024JECRPRL-036JECRPRL-048JECRPRL-060JEC

Other Rheem Heat Pump codes

CodeMeaning
01Long run time (compressor)
1 flash (L terminal)L-terminal fault output: Long run cycle or low pressure
02High side fault (compressor limit opened 4 times)
2 flashes (L terminal)L-terminal fault output: High pressure control trip
03Short cycling
3 flashes (L terminal)L-terminal fault output: Unit short cycling
05Open circuit - compressor will not run
5 flashes (L terminal)L-terminal fault output: Compressor will not run, open circuit
06Compressor open start circuit
6 flashes (L terminal)L-terminal fault output: Open start circuit
07Compressor open run circuit
7 flashes (L terminal)L-terminal fault output: Open run circuit

All Rheem Heat Pump error codes →

Rheem code 4 flashes (L terminal): homeowner questions

What does Rheem code 4 flashes (L terminal) mean?

L-terminal fault output: Locked rotor. Equivalent to code L4. Shown on an L-terminal compatible conventional thermostat when the unit is wired 24VAC (non-communicating).

Is it safe to keep using my heat pump with code 4 flashes (L terminal)?

It depends on the cause. The heat pump has locked out or cannot run properly. One reset is fine; if the code comes back, it needs a licensed technician to find the cause.

Can I reset Rheem code 4 flashes (L terminal) myself?

You can try one reset (power off for 30 seconds, then on). If Rheem code 4 flashes (L terminal) comes back, the cause is still there and a licensed technician should check it.

Who can fix Rheem code 4 flashes (L terminal) near me?

Aurora Star Tech Inc. repairs Rheem heat pumps in Vaughan, Toronto and across the GTA. Call (647) 657-2977 or book a service call online.

Homeowner help: AC Running But Not Cooling: What to Check · Heat Pump Not Heating or Blowing Cold Air

Troubleshooting guides

Source: Rheem (-)PRL-JEC Heat Pump Installation Instructions, 12.7 Conventional 24VAC Thermostat Control Wiring (L terminal output), p.31. Written in our own words as a summary; always check the original manual.

General guidance for qualified technicians. The manufacturer's installation and service manual and local codes always take priority. Aurora Star Tech is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by any equipment manufacturer; brand and model names are used only to identify equipment and belong to their owners.

Emergency HVAC Service

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