Nor-Lake Walk-In Error Code LCT: System Lockout
LCT on a Nor-Lake Split-Pak walk-in with a LogiTemp or KE2 Evap controller is a system lockout: in one hour the system cycled off on high discharge temperature more times than the Max Number of Starts setpoint. The compressor stays locked out. Call service; the manual's Troubleshooting Tables give the actions.
High: the compressor is locked out and the walk-in is not being cooled.
- Code
- LCT
- Maker
- Nor-Lake
- Equipment
- Walk-in coolers & freezers
- Applies to
- LogiTemp / KE2 Evap OEM controller on Nor-Lake Split-Pak refrigeration systems (A1 refrigerants)
What does Nor-Lake error code LCT mean?
LCT is the System Lockout alarm, with the scrolling text Comp Locked Out, in the Alarms and Notifications list of the LogiTemp controller on Nor-Lake Split-Pak systems. The controller counts the times the system cycles off on high discharge temperature. If the count within one hour passes the Max Number of Starts setpoint, it locks the compressor out and shows LCT. This protects the compressor from repeated overheating cycles. The manual's list gives this meaning but not the causes of the high discharge temperature, and refers the reader to the Troubleshooting Tables from page 52. High discharge temperature on a condensing unit often goes with condenser airflow or refrigerant circuit problems, but the entry does not state that. Because the compressor is locked out, the box is not being cooled.
Affected models and control systems
LCT is listed for the LogiTemp and KE2 Evap OEM controller on Nor-Lake Split-Pak refrigeration systems with A1 refrigerants, in the Alarms and Notifications list printed on pages 48-52. The Max Number of Starts setpoint is a controller setting.
Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.
What you may notice
- LCT or Comp Locked Out on the display
- Compressor not starting
- Box temperature rising
Possible causes
Likely causes — what usually sits behind error code LCT on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- System cycled off on high discharge temperature more than the Max Number of Starts setpoint within one hour
- Condenser coil dirty or blocked so discharge temperature climbs
- Condenser fan stopped
- Refrigerant circuit restriction or low charge raising discharge temperature
Safe checks before calling for service
- Check the box temperature and move food if it is warming.
- Look at the condensing unit from outside for blocked air or a dirty coil.
- Do not repeatedly cycle power to force a restart.
- Do not open panels.
- Write down when LCT appeared and whether the unit was short-cycling beforehand, for the technician.
How a technician diagnoses error code LCT
- Read the alarm, history and the Max Number of Starts setpoint.
- Check the condenser coil and fan.
- Read refrigeration pressures and discharge temperature.
- Check for refrigerant restriction or charge problems.
- Correct the cause, then clear the lockout as the manual describes.
- Use the Troubleshooting Tables from page 52 for the final step.
- Discharge temperature and pressure readings need gauges on a sealed refrigerant circuit.
- Repeated restarts can damage the compressor.
- Clearing the lockout without fixing the cause only brings it back.
How error code LCT differs from similar codes
LCT is a protective lockout. HCA, in the same list, warns of a high condenser temperature before such a lockout might occur.
Technical reference
- Document
- LogiTemp Electronic Controller System Operations Manual for Split-Pak Refrigeration Systems Containing A1 Refrigerants
- Edition
- 171527 Rev. A, 2025 (Refrigerated Solutions Group)
- Models / control
- LogiTemp / KE2 Evap OEM controller on Nor-Lake Split-Pak refrigeration systems (A1 refrigerants)
- Section
- Alarms & Notifications List, printed pp. 48-52; Troubleshooting Tables from p. 52
- Checked
- October 2026
We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.
Related Nor-Lake walk-in cooler & freezer error codes
Can I restart the system myself?
Do not force restarts. The lockout protects the compressor.
Will LCT clear on its own?
The manual refers to its tables. A lockout generally needs the cause fixed first.
Is LCT a compressor failure?
Not necessarily. It means the compressor was stopped to protect it.
Need help with Nor-Lake error code LCT?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.