Rheem · ProTerra 120V plug-in
Rheem ProTerra 120V plug-in error code A005
Compressor Shutdown: Discharge Temp High
What it means
Heating source defaults to elements due to compressor malfunction
Also listed in: Residential 120V Plugin With HydroBoost Heat Pump Water Heater (Shared Circuit) Use & Care Manual, AP22654 Rev 01, page 30
What Rheem says to do
These steps involve electrical testing or parts replacement. Rheem's manuals tell owners to leave that work to a qualified service technician.
1. Confirm fan is operational while compressor is on. (If the fan is not operational, check continuity from middle(ground)terminal to either outside terminal. If there is a 60V or higher reading, the fan should be running and will need to be replaced. If not, replace the control board (rare)). 2. Confirm filter screen is clean. 3. Inspect compressor and surrounding components for any obvious signs of refrigerant leak (oily residue) If the compressor is not operational or there are signs of leakage, the unit will need to be replaced as we do not service sealed system parts.
Last checked 2026-10-03.
Safety first
- CAUTION: For your safety DO NOT attempt repair of electrical wiring, thermostats, or other safety devices. Refer repairs to qualified service personnel. (p.28)
- WARNING: If the water heater has been subjected to fire, flood or physical damage, disconnect all power to water heater, and DO NOT operate the water heater again until it has been checked by a qualified service technician. (p.19)
From the manufacturer's manual for this series.
The same code on other models
Codes mean different things on different heaters. Match the series to the model number on your rating label.
Other ProTerra 120V plug-in codes
- A004 (Comp.Shutdown: Discharge-Suction Trip)
- T005 (Compressor Shutdown: Discharge Temp High)
- A006 (Suction Temperature Too Low)
- T006 (Suction Temperature Too Low)
- T009 (Compressor wiring may be faulty)
- A009 (Compressor wiring may be faulty)
- A101 (Suction Temperature Sensor Failure)
- A102 (Ambient Temperature Sensor Failure)
- A103 (Lower Heater Temp Sensor Failure)
- A104 (Upper Heater Temp Sensor Failure)
- A105 (Evaporator Temp Sensor Failure)
- A106 (Discharge Temp Sensor Failure)
- A107 (Water Detected on Floor: Check For Leaks)
- A108 (Condensate Blocked: Unclog Line)
- A130 (Unit Off/Air Temp Freezing: Enable Unit)
- T131 (Clean Filter Reminder)
- T132 (Water Heater difficulty satisfying demand)
- A120 (Shutoff Valve Can't Close Error)
- A121 (Shutoff Valve Can't Open Error)
- A122 (Shutoff Valve Inputs in Error)
- A123 (Shut-Off Valve Not Installed)
- A200 (High Water Temp! [ECO] Call Tech Service)
- T300 (Water vor Not Installed [sic; as printed])
- A502 (Time Clock needs to be programmed)
- A503 (Time Clock not advancing time properly)
- T504 (WiFi Chip Communication Error)
- A900 (Controller Fault: Call Tech Service)
- T901 (Controller Fault: Call Tech Service)
- A902 (Controller Fault: Call Tech Service)
- A903 (Controller Fault: Call Tech Service)
- A904 (Controller Fault: Call Tech Service)
- A905 (Controller Fault: Call Tech Service)
- A906 (Power Board Temp. Protection Sensor Failure)