KeepRite Error Code 71: Low stage thermal cutout (Heat Pump)

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

KeepRite error code 71 on a heat pump means: Low stage thermal cutout. It is also called KeepRite diagnostic code 71.

High severityHeat PumpKeepRite *CA/*CH Two-Stage Communicating

Homeowner? What KeepRite code 71 means for you

Call a technician Your heat pump is reporting: Low stage thermal cutout. 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 KeepRite error code 71 mean?

Compressor ran on low stage, then disappeared while low-stage demand remained.

Applies to: KeepRite *CA7/*CA9 AC and *CH6/*CH9 HP two-stage communicating

Common causes of KeepRite code 71

Compressor internal overload trip
Start relay/capacitor left in circuit too long

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.

KeepRite models that use code 71

*CH624 *CH636 *CH648 *CH660 *CH924 *CH936 *CH948 *CH960

Other KeepRite Heat Pump codes

Code	Meaning
45	Outdoor control board failure
46	Brown-out (low voltage)
47	No 230 V at the unit
53	Outdoor air temperature sensor fault
55	Outdoor coil sensor fault
56	Air and coil sensors disagree
72	Compressor thermal cutout (two-stage: high stage)
73	Contactor stuck closed
74	No 230 V at compressor
81	Low stage thermal lockout
82	Thermal lockout (two-stage: high stage)
83	Low pressure lockout

All KeepRite Heat Pump error codes →

KeepRite code 71: homeowner questions

What does KeepRite code 71 mean?

Low stage thermal cutout. Compressor ran on low stage, then disappeared while low-stage demand remained.

Is it safe to keep using my heat pump with code 71?

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 KeepRite code 71 myself?

You can try one reset (power off for 30 seconds, then on). If KeepRite code 71 comes back, the cause is still there and a licensed technician should check it.

Who can fix KeepRite code 71 near me?

Aurora Star Tech Inc. repairs KeepRite 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

Forcing a defrost to test the board - KeepRite N4H4/R4H4/WCH4/NXH5 KeepRite · Heat Pump
Outdoor unit will not run or will not defrost - KeepRite heat pump defrost board (FAST 1173636/1177927/1190281) KeepRite · Heat Pump

Source: KeepRite_ICP_KeepRite_Tempstar_Heil_split_A_C_HP_R_410A_R_22_service_421_08_5400_04.txt - section Table 17 Troubleshooting (two-stage). 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.