Carrier Error Code 79: Compressor / inverter fault (failed start) (AC)
Carrier error code 79 on a air conditioner means: Compressor / inverter fault (failed start). It is also called Carrier diagnostic code 79.
Homeowner? What Carrier code 79 means for you
Check, then call Your air conditioner is reporting: Compressor / inverter fault (failed start). This is often caused by something simple. Try the safe checks below; if the code returns, book a service call before it turns into a no-heat or no-hot-water emergency.
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.
- Keep about 2 feet around the outdoor unit clear of leaves, grass and debris.
- If you see ice on the pipes or the indoor coil, turn the system off and run only the fan for a few hours, then call a technician.
- 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 Carrier error code 79 mean?
Amber STATUS light flashes 79. The compressor failed to start. The system retries; after 5 occurrences it becomes code 88. Type: Local; reset: Automatic retry.
Applies to: Carrier Infinity 19VS variable speed air conditioner 24VNA9 (AOC control + inverter)
Common causes of Carrier code 79
- Compressor fails to start
Carrier models that use code 79
24VNA924VNA91324VNA92424VNA92524VNA93624VNA93724VNA94824VNA94924VNA960
Other Carrier AC codes
All Carrier Air Conditioner error codes →
Carrier code 79: homeowner questions
What does Carrier code 79 mean?
Compressor / inverter fault (failed start). Amber STATUS light flashes 79. The compressor failed to start. The system retries; after 5 occurrences it becomes code 88. Type: Local; reset: Automatic retry.
Is it safe to keep using my air conditioner with code 79?
It depends on the cause. This is often caused by something simple. Try the safe checks below; if the code returns, book a service call before it turns into a no-heat or no-hot-water emergency.
Can I reset Carrier code 79 myself?
You can try one reset (power off for 30 seconds, then on). If Carrier code 79 comes back, the cause is still there and a licensed technician should check it.
Who can fix Carrier code 79 near me?
Aurora Star Tech Inc. repairs Carrier air conditioners 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
Troubleshooting guides
- Not cooling All brands · Air Conditioner
- Amber STATUS or green COMM light not on Carrier · Air Conditioner
- Compressor will not run - winding and electrical checks - Carrier split systems Carrier · Air Conditioner
- Delay before the compressor restarts Carrier · Air Conditioner
- Hissing from the outdoor unit after it shuts off Carrier · Air Conditioner
- Outdoor unit unresponsive after several faults Carrier · Air Conditioner
- Superheat too high or too low on TXV system - Carrier split systems Carrier · Air Conditioner
- Two-stage unit not changing stages - Carrier 24ANB/25HNB/25HCB6 Carrier · Air Conditioner
Source: Carrier 25VNA8 / 24VNA9 Service Manual, Table 6 Fault Code Actions, p.23. 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.