Tadiran AC Error Code HC — High Current Protection

What it means

HC on a Tadiran AC means the overcurrent protection has tripped — the compressor or a motor is drawing more current than the safe maximum.
The most common causes are high operating pressure (from a blocked condenser or overcharge), a failing compressor, or low supply voltage.
Do not repeatedly restart after an HC trip — allow at least 30 minutes for the motors to cool.

Affected Models

Tadiran Inverter Split AC
Tadiran Breeze Series
Tadiran T-MAX Series
Tadiran Coral Series
Tadiran Split AC (all inverter models)

Common Causes

High discharge pressure forcing the compressor to draw more current to maintain operation
Compressor motor winding degrading with age — increased electrical resistance raises current draw
Low supply voltage — motors draw more current when voltage is below specification
Outdoor fan motor failing — increased friction raises overall current consumption
Condenser coil blocked — pressure rises, raising compressor current
Refrigerant overcharged — excess pressure increases compressor load and current

How to Fix It

Switch off the AC and wait at least 30 minutes before attempting a restart.

Motor windings must cool fully before restarting — a premature restart will likely trip HC again immediately.
Inspect the outdoor unit for airflow blockages.

Clear any debris from around the outdoor unit.
Ensure at least 50 cm of clearance on all sides.
A blocked condenser raises operating pressure, which raises compressor current.
Verify the outdoor fan is spinning.

Restart briefly and watch the outdoor fan through the top grille.
A fan that is not spinning or spinning very slowly means the fan motor or capacitor has failed — switch off and call a technician.
After one careful restart, monitor for 10 minutes.

If HC does not return and the AC cools normally, the trip may have been caused by a temporary high-pressure or voltage event.
If HC returns, call a Tadiran technician — do not keep restarting.

When to Call a Professional

HC requires a licensed HVAC technician.
Do not repeatedly restart after HC trips — each high-current event degrades the compressor windings.
A technician will measure actual current draw, check refrigerant pressures, and determine whether the compressor or another component is at fault.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is HC a sign the Tadiran compressor is about to fail?

Not necessarily — HC can be caused by external factors like high pressure or low voltage rather than the compressor itself.
However, if HC appears on a unit that is 8 or more years old and the pressure and voltage are both normal, the compressor motor may be failing.
A technician can measure actual compressor current draw to determine whether the compressor is the source.

Can a voltage stabiliser prevent HC on a Tadiran AC?

If HC is caused by low or fluctuating supply voltage, a voltage stabiliser can help.
However, if HC is caused by high pressure or a failing compressor, a stabiliser will not prevent the trips.
A technician should identify the root cause before you invest in additional equipment.