Rheem · Heat pump

L4 Locked rotor lockout

High severity Rheem/Ruud PRL-JEC heat pump (Comfort Control2 ICC)

What the control is telling you

Compressor ran less than 15 seconds on four (4) consecutive starts during the same call; the ICC locks out the compressor (display flashes L then 04/4). Manual reset required. Reported as 4 flashes on the L terminal.

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

Likely causes

  • Bad run capacitor
  • Low line voltage
  • Excess refrigerant in compressor (flooding/migration)
  • Seized compressor bearings

Test and repair steps

  1. Test the run capacitor and replace if out of spec.
  2. Measure line voltage at the compressor while starting; it must be within ±10% of nameplate (197-253V for 208/230V units).
  3. Make sure the crankcase heater works; at startup or after a long shutdown it should be powered 12 hours before starting the compressor.
  4. Check charge for overcharge/flooding.
  5. Check compressor windings for correct ohms and ground.
  6. Hard-start components are factory installed - verify they are intact.
  7. Reset the ICC after the cause is fixed press TEST for 1 second with an insulated probe (preferred), or cycle 24VAC (pull R or C) or cycle line power.

Settings for these units

Outdoor unit clearances · Rheem/Ruud PRL-JEC heat pump (Comfort Control2 ICC)

LocationMinimum
Above unit (fan discharge)60 in. [1524 mm]
Coil air inlets (3 sides)6 in. [152 mm]
Service access side24 in. [610 mm]
Between two units (grille sides aligned)12 in. total (6 in. per unit)

Do not reduce the 60 in. discharge or 24 in. service clearances.

Inlet clearances under 6 in. reduce capacity and efficiency.

Models that show this code

4 models in Rheem/Ruud PRL-JEC heat pump (Comfort Control2 ICC)

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

Other codes on the same units

  • d1 No shared data
  • d3 Airflow CFM mismatch
  • d4 Memory card invalid for device
  • d8 Old shared data
  • L6 Open start circuit lockout
  • L7 Open run circuit lockout
  • L21 Low pressure control lockout
  • L29 High pressure control lockout

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Source: Rheem (-)PRL-JEC Heat Pump Installation Instructions, 12.4 Active Compressor Protection Mode / 12.6 ICC Diagnostic Codes, p.25, 29. Summarized in our own words; check the original manual for your model.

Homeowner looking at this code? See what it means for you and when to call a technician.

For licensed technicians. Gas, electrical and refrigerant work must be done by a qualified, licensed person. Shut off power and gas before servicing, never bypass a safety control, and follow the manufacturer’s manual for the exact model; it and local codes always take priority. HVACopedia is not affiliated with any manufacturer; brand and model names only identify the equipment.