Daikin AC Error Code E1 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

E1 on a Daikin AC means the outdoor unit PCB (printed circuit board) has detected a fault or a protection device has activated. Daikin's E1 is a broad protection code — it covers multiple possible outdoor unit failures including refrigerant pressure faults, current protection, and PCB abnormalities. A technician is needed to read the sub-code and identify the exact cause.

Affected Models

Daikin FTKF Series
Daikin FTKG Series
Daikin ATKF Series
Daikin Inverter Split AC (all models)
Daikin 1 Ton / 1.5 Ton / 2 Ton Inverter

Common Causes

Outdoor PCB (main control board) has an internal fault or has detected an abnormal condition
High pressure protection activated — discharge pressure exceeded the safe limit
Overcurrent protection triggered — the compressor drew more current than allowed
Inverter module fault on the outdoor PCB
Refrigerant overcharge or undercharge causing abnormal operating pressures

How to Fix It

Switch the AC off at the remote and at the circuit breaker.

Wait 10 minutes for the outdoor unit to fully power down and any protection circuits to reset.
Restore power and attempt one restart.

If E1 returns within minutes of restarting, the protection circuit is detecting a real fault. Do not keep restarting.
Check that the outdoor unit has clear ventilation on all sides.

A blocked outdoor unit causes high discharge pressure, which is one of the triggers for E1. Ensure at least 30 cm clearance on all sides.
Call Daikin service immediately — E1 requires diagnostic tool readout.

The Daikin service engineer will read the sub-code on the outdoor PCB to identify whether the issue is pressure, current, or board-related.

When to Call a Professional

E1 always requires a Daikin authorised technician. The technician will connect a Daikin diagnostic tool to read the sub-code that identifies the specific fault. Do not continue restarting — repeated attempts with an E1 fault can deepen the damage. Daikin India: 1800-103-3666.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Daikin show E1 instead of the specific error?

E1 is a top-level protection code that covers multiple possible faults detected by the outdoor PCB. The specific cause is stored as a sub-code that can only be read with Daikin's proprietary diagnostic tool. This is why a technician visit is essential — the visible E1 code alone does not tell you which component failed.

Can E1 damage my Daikin AC if I keep restarting it?

Yes — if E1 is caused by high pressure or overcurrent, repeated restarts force the compressor to work under abnormal conditions. This can cause permanent compressor damage. Limit restart attempts to one or two, then wait for a technician.