What does Error Code EC mean on a Blue Star AC?

Error Code EC on a Blue Star Air Conditioner indicates 'Refrigerant Leakage' (Error Cooling). The system detects that despite the compressor running, the indoor coil temperature is not dropping, meaning the gas has leaked out.

Can I simply refill the gas for EC error?

No. EC confirms a physical leak in the copper pipes. Simply filling gas without finding and fixing the leak (using Nitrogen pressure) is a waste of money as it will leak out again.

How much does it cost to fix Blue Star EC error?

The repair involves leak testing, brazing, vacuuming, and refilling gas. Costs typically range from ₹2,500 to ₹4,500 depending on the refrigerant type (R32/R410A) and leak location.

Technician Note

Always isolate power before inspecting high-voltage components.

Blue Star AC Error Code EC | Refrigerant Leakage | Atlas Aircon

Refrigerant Leak Detected

Blue Star Error EC

System Empty.
Protective Shutdown to Prevent Compressor Burnout.

Symptom

No Cooling

Sign

Ice on Pipes

Fix

Leak Repair + Gas

The “Empty Tank” Warning

The EC Error is Blue Star’s safety protocol for **Low Refrigerant**. The system monitors the temperature difference between pipes and the electrical current consumed by the compressor. If the gas is low, the compressor overheats and works inefficiently.

Critical Note: AC gas is not a consumable like fuel in a car. It circulates in a sealed loop. If you have EC, it means there is a **physical hole/crack** in your copper piping that let the gas escape.

1 DIY Checks (Confirming the Leak)

Ice Formation

Check the outdoor unit valves. If you see white ice accumulating on the discharge (thinner) pipe, your gas pressure is critically low.

Oily Spots

Refrigerant oil circulates with the gas. Inspect the pipe joints (flare nuts). If they look wet, dark, or greasy, that is where the leak is.

Warm Air Output

The indoor blower is running, but the air is not cold. The compressor might be running louder than usual or cutting off frequently.

Atlas Aircon Protocol

We don’t guess. We verify.

01.
Nitrogen Pressure Test We fill the system with 350 PSI of Nitrogen. This high pressure reveals even the smallest pin-hole leak in the coil or joints.
02.
Vacuuming (Mandatory) After fixing the leak, we use a vacuum pump to remove all air and moisture. Moisture + R32/R410A = Acid, which destroys the compressor.
03.
Gas Charging by Weight Blue Star Inverter ACs require precise charging (e.g., 900g). We use a digital scale to ensure 100% cooling efficiency and prevent future errors.

Estimated Repair Cost (Atlas Aircon)

Leak Repair: ₹650 – ₹950

Gas Refill (R32): ₹2,500+

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my new AC leak gas so soon?

This is usually due to installation errors. If the flare nuts connecting the pipes weren’t tightened correctly or vibrated loose, gas can escape within months.

Can I just top up the gas?

**Not Recommended.** R32 and R410A are blends. Topping up changes the chemical composition, leading to poor cooling and higher electricity bills. It’s best to vent, vacuum, and refill fresh.

Is EC caused by dirty filters?

Unlikely. Dirty filters usually cause **ice formation on the coil** but typically trigger different errors related to sensors. EC is specifically about low refrigerant pressure/flow.