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Carrier Error Code 73: Contactor shorted (Heat Pump)

Updated · by Aurora Star Tech Inc.

Carrier error code 73 on a heat pump means: Contactor shorted. It is also called Carrier diagnostic code 73.

High severityHeat PumpCarrier 2-stage 24ANB/25HNB · Carrier single-stage communicating HP

Homeowner? What Carrier code 73 means for you

Call a technician Your heat pump is reporting: Contactor shorted. 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 Carrier error code 73 mean?

Amber STATUS light flashes 73: compressor voltage is present when there is no call for the compressor.

Applies to: Carrier 25HNB6/25HNB9 two-stage HP; single-stage communicating HP

Common causes of Carrier code 73

  • Contactor contacts welded or stuck closed
  • Miswired control box
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.

Carrier models that use code 73

25HNB62425HNB63625HNB64825HNB66025HNB92425HNB93625HNB94825HNB960

Other Carrier Heat Pump codes

CodeMeaning
66Outdoor fan dropped out
67Stator heater fault
6810-minute stage 2 warm-up delay
69Inverter / compressor internal fault
71Compressor dropped out
72Suction over temperature (event)
74Discharge temperature lockout
75Maximum power mode - temperature
76Fan inverter lockout
77Maximum power mode - compressor current
79Compressor / inverter fault (failed start)
81Low stage thermal lockout

All Carrier Heat Pump error codes →

Carrier code 73: homeowner questions

What does Carrier code 73 mean?

Contactor shorted. Amber STATUS light flashes 73: compressor voltage is present when there is no call for the compressor.

Is it safe to keep using my heat pump with code 73?

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 Carrier code 73 myself?

You can try one reset (power off for 30 seconds, then on). If Carrier code 73 comes back, the cause is still there and a licensed technician should check it.

Who can fix Carrier code 73 near me?

Aurora Star Tech Inc. repairs Carrier 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: Carrier Residential AC & HP Application Guideline and Service Manual 24-25-9SM (text export), Table 14 Status Codes / Table 18 Troubleshooting. 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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