Durastar Technical Resource Center
EL 01_Current Loop
Description
Communication error between indoor and outdoor unit.
Cause
The indoor unit does not receive feedback from the outdoor unit for 2 minutes, and this condition occurs four consecutive times.
Note: A DR SMART troubleshooting tool is highly recommended to troubleshoot this code. P/N DRPDRSMART. A voltmeter can be used as a guide, but results are not always guaranteed.
Solution
- Verify the communication wiring at terminals 1, 2, and 3 on both the indoor and outdoor units. Wires must match terminal-to-terminal, be tight, undamaged, and have no splices.
- If an external pump, float switch, or safety device is installed, confirm it is not breaking terminal 3. Terminal 3 is communication only.
- Check incoming voltage at outdoor L1 and L2. Voltage must be between 187-253 VAC.
- Check voltage at terminals 1 and 2. It should match L1 and L2 voltage. For R454B units, if there is no power at 1 or 2, check the fuses.
- Set the meter to DC voltage. Place the red lead on terminal 2 and the black lead on terminal 3. A normal communication signal should pulse between +50 VDC and -50 VDC.
- If the voltage stays positive and does not pulse, suspect the outdoor unit PCB.
- If the voltage is fixed and near 0 VDC and does not pulse, suspect the indoor unit PCB or the communication wire between the units.
- If the communication wire is suspected, run a temporary test wire between the indoor and outdoor units.
- Before replacing a control board, inspect for pinched wiring or shorted components such as EEVs, thermistors, fan motors, or other components.

Documents / Resources
![]() | EL 01 Current Loop |
References
- User Manualmanual.tools
Published: September 24, 2026
Updated: September 25, 2026
