Air Conditioner
LG
Updated Jul 17, 2026
LG AC CH22 Error — Compressor Overcurrent Protection & Fix
CH22
LG · Air ConditionerCH22 means the compressor itself is drawing excessive current, triggering the overcurrent…
Quick answer
CH22 means the compressor itself is drawing excessive current, triggering the overcurrent protection relay.
What CH22 means
While CH21 relates to the inverter DC circuit, CH22 specifically flags the compressor motor overcurrent. The outdoor unit's current transformer detects that the compressor is pulling more amps than its rated limit — a sign of mechanical strain, a winding fault, or extreme operating conditions.
Common causes and fix
CH22 often appears on extremely hot days when the condenser is dirty and the compressor is working at maximum capacity. Clean the outdoor unit first — that alone resolves many CH22 cases.
What does the CH22 code mean?
CH22 is a compressor overcurrent protection error. The compressor motor current has exceeded the rated maximum.
Common causes
- Extremely dirty condenser coil (heat rejection blocked)
- Outdoor fan not running or running slowly
- Refrigerant overcharge
- Compressor winding fault (partial short between phases)
- High ambient temperature with no shade on the outdoor unit
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How to fix the CH22 error
Power off for 30 minutes
Let the compressor cool and pressures equalise.
Clean the condenser coil thoroughly
Use a hose — not a pressure washer — to remove dirt.
Check outdoor fan
Confirm it starts and runs at full speed.
Provide shade if possible
An unshaded outdoor unit in direct sun runs hotter.
Restart
If CH22 clears, the cause was thermal overload from poor airflow.
If persistent, call a technician
Compressor windings and refrigerant charge need checking.
Safety first: Do not repeatedly restart after CH22 — each overload event stresses the compressor windings. Three consecutive trips warrant a technician visit.
Part you may need: Outdoor condenser cleaning / compressor
If the compressor windings show low insulation resistance, the compressor is failing and needs replacement under warranty if eligible.
Frequently asked questions
Is CH22 the same as CH21?
Similar but different. CH21 is inverter-circuit overcurrent; CH22 is compressor-motor overcurrent. Both can result from a dirty condenser.
Can I prevent CH22?
Regular condenser cleaning (monthly in dusty areas) and ensuring good airflow around the outdoor unit prevents most CH22 events.
✎ Written by
REZAUL Karim (Riad)
REZAUL Karim (Riad) is the founder of ErrFixHub and a hands-on electronics and home-appliance repair specialist with over 15 years of experience diagnosing and fixing air conditioners, washing machines, refrigerators, inverters and other household appliances. He built ErrFixHub to turn cryptic error codes into clear, step-by-step fixes anyone can follow — cross-checking every code against manufacturer documentation and real repair-bench experience.
