A. O. Smith · Voltex hybrid with letter codes (HPTU, 2016–2019)
A. O. Smith Voltex hybrid with letter codes (HPTU, 2016–2019) error code ELC
Lower element
What it means
Lower element is not functioning.
What A. O. Smith says to do
These steps involve electrical testing or parts replacement. A. O. Smith's manuals tell owners to leave that work to a qualified service technician.
Refer to "Check Upper Heating Element" and "Replacing the Heating Element" in the manual.
Last checked 2026-10-03.
Safety first
- WARNING! Electric Shock Hazard; Disconnect power before servicing. Do not remove the plastic guard from over wiring. Do not touch electrical wiring. Failure to do so can result in death or electrical shock. (diagnostic code pages, p.20-21)
- WARNING! Working near an energized circuit can result in severe injury or death from electrical shock. WARNING! When you are finished, be sure all covers are secured to reduce the risk of fire and electric shock. (p.22)
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 Voltex hybrid with letter codes (HPTU, 2016–2019) codes
- - / -- / --- (System diagnostic)
- ICE (Defrost)
- HPO (Out of operating range)
- EUC (Upper element)
- SF (Air filter)
- ECF (Compressor short cycling)
- E20 or E21 (Upper temperature sensor)
- E30 or E31 (Lower temperature sensor)
- E50 or E51 (Suction temperature sensor)
- E10 or E11 (Coil temperature sensor)
- E40 or E41 (Discharge temperature sensor)
- E60 (Upper and lower sensors)
- Edr (Dry fire / tank not full)
- EPL (Low supply voltage)
- EDH (Discharge temperature high)
- EoF (Condensate management)
- ECL (Suction pressure low)
- EEE (EEPROM failure)
- ECC (Compressor not functioning)
- ECE (Power supply error)