Gree AC Error Code HC — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

HC on a Gree AC means the Power Factor Correction (PFC) module has triggered its protection circuit and shut down. The PFC module is inside the outdoor unit and converts AC mains power into stable DC power for the inverter compressor. Gree stops the compressor immediately when HC appears to prevent damage to the power electronics.

Affected Models

Gree Pular Series
Gree Fairy Series
Gree Bora Series
Gree U-Crown Series
Gree Inverter Split AC (all models)
Gree 1 Ton / 1.5 Ton / 2 Ton Inverter

Common Causes

Mains power supply voltage too high, too low, or fluctuating — the PFC module cannot correct for extreme instability
PFC capacitor on the outdoor PCB has failed or degraded — very common after 4-6 years of use
PFC inductor (choke coil) open circuit or shorted on the outdoor board
Loose mains wiring terminal inside the outdoor unit — causing intermittent voltage drop at the PFC input
Outdoor PCB (power board) has developed a fault in the PFC correction circuit
Extended operation during a thunderstorm with repeated voltage spikes

How to Fix It

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

Do not just switch off at the remote — the outdoor unit stays energised. Flip the dedicated AC circuit breaker to fully de-energise the system.
Check whether other appliances on the same circuit are affected.

If lights flicker or other appliances behave erratically, the mains power supply itself is the problem. A faulty mains supply will cause HC to return even after board replacement. Contact your electricity supplier if supply quality is suspect.
Wait 15 minutes, then restore power and try one restart.

HC caused by a brief voltage spike (during a storm or heavy load switching) sometimes clears after a full reset. If HC returns within minutes of restarting, stop trying — call a technician.
Do not keep restarting the unit if HC reappears.

Repeated restarts with a faulty PFC circuit can cause further stress to the power board components and escalate the repair cost.
Call a Gree-authorised technician to diagnose the outdoor PCB.

The technician will measure the mains input voltage at the outdoor unit, test the PFC capacitors with a capacitance meter, and check the inductor continuity. In most cases a faulty capacitor is replaced without changing the full board.

When to Call a Professional

HC on a Gree AC requires a licensed HVAC technician. The outdoor unit power board operates at mains voltage and above — it is dangerous without proper training. Gree customer care India: 1800-315-1234. A technician will test the PFC module, capacitors, and mains supply quality before replacing any parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is HC the same as a high voltage error on Gree AC?

No. HC is specifically a Power Factor Correction circuit fault — it protects the inverter electronics from unstable or dirty power. PH (high voltage) triggers when the mains supply voltage is too high. HC can appear even when mains voltage is normal if a PFC component has internally failed.

What is the PFC module in a Gree AC?

The Power Factor Correction module is a circuit on the outdoor PCB that converts mains AC power to stable DC power for the inverter. It also reduces harmonic distortion on the mains supply. Gree inverter ACs all include a PFC module because the inverter compressor requires high-quality DC power to vary its speed efficiently.

Can a voltage stabiliser prevent HC on Gree AC?

It depends on the cause. If HC is triggered by mains voltage fluctuations, a good quality voltage stabiliser (at least 5 kVA for a 1.5 ton AC) can help. If the PFC component itself has failed internally, a stabiliser will not prevent HC — the board needs repair.