Rheem Error Code 06: Compressor open start circuit (Heat Pump)

Updated October 13, 2026 · by Aurora Star Tech Inc.

Rheem error code 06 on a heat pump means: Compressor open start circuit. It is also called Rheem diagnostic code 06.

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

Homeowner? What Rheem code 06 means for you

Call a technician Your heat pump is reporting: Compressor open start circuit. 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) 657-2977 Book a service call

Licensed technicians serving Vaughan, Toronto and the GTA.

What does Rheem error code 06 mean?

The ICC sees current in the run circuit but none in the start circuit. If this happens four (4) times in one compressor call the ICC locks out with L6. Reported as 6 flashes on the L terminal.

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

Common causes of Rheem code 06

Damaged, wrong or miswired run capacitor
Broken wire or loose connector in the start circuit
Open start winding

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 06

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

Other Rheem Heat Pump codes

Code	Meaning
2 flashes (L terminal)	L-terminal fault output: High pressure control trip
03	Short cycling
3 flashes (L terminal)	L-terminal fault output: Unit short cycling
4 flashes (L terminal)	L-terminal fault output: Locked rotor
05	Open circuit - compressor will not run
5 flashes (L terminal)	L-terminal fault output: Compressor will not run, open circuit
6 flashes (L terminal)	L-terminal fault output: Open start circuit
07	Compressor open run circuit
7 flashes (L terminal)	L-terminal fault output: Open run circuit
8 flashes (L terminal)	L-terminal fault output: Control mis-operation
09	Low secondary (control) voltage
9 flashes (L terminal)	L-terminal fault output: Low control voltage

All Rheem Heat Pump error codes →

Rheem code 06: homeowner questions

What does Rheem code 06 mean?

Compressor open start circuit. The ICC sees current in the run circuit but none in the start circuit. If this happens four (4) times in one compressor call the ICC locks out with L6. Reported as 6 flashes on the L terminal.

Is it safe to keep using my heat pump with code 06?

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 06 myself?

You can try one reset (power off for 30 seconds, then on). If Rheem code 06 comes back, the cause is still there and a licensed technician should check it.

Who can fix Rheem code 06 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

Heat pump will not defrost / incomplete or excessive defrost Rheem · Heat Pump
Insufficient cooling / pressure problems Rheem · Heat Pump
Outdoor fan runs but compressor does not Rheem · Heat Pump
Outdoor unit will not run Rheem · Heat Pump

Source: Rheem (-)PRL-JEC Heat Pump Installation Instructions, 12.6 ICC Diagnostic Codes, p.29. 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.