Amana Furnace 6 Flashes: What It Means and How to Troubleshoot

The Amana furnace six-flash diagnostic light can indicate a range of issues depending on the model and control board. This article explains typical meanings, safe troubleshooting steps, and when to call a professional to restore reliable heat. Always verify the exact code for the furnace model before replacing parts.

Symptom	Possible Cause	First Action
6 LED Flashes On Control Board	Model-specific fault (common: limit switch, pressure switch, or blower issue)	Consult furnace data plate and manual; power cycle to confirm
Furnace Lockout Or Repeated Faults	Shorted sensor, blocked venting, failed inducer or control board	Perform visual checks; call HVAC tech if uncertain

How Amana Furnace Diagnostic Codes Work

Amana furnaces use an LED on the control board to communicate faults through flash patterns. Each model and control board family uses specific codes, so a six-flash pattern can mean different things across units. Always match codes to the furnace model number and board part number.

Typical diagnostic steps are: identify the LED pattern, record steady or repeating flashes, locate the furnace schematic/data label, and consult the official manual or wiring diagram for the corresponding code definition.

Common Causes Associated With Six Flashes

While the exact meaning varies, six flashes on many Amana/Goodman/Daikin-style control boards commonly point to one of these categories: limit/safety switch issues, pressure switch or venting faults, blower or induced draft problems, flame sensing or ignition faults, or control board malfunctions.

Limit Switch Or Overheat Condition

The furnace high-limit switch opens to protect the heat exchanger from overheating. A persistent or intermittent open limit can trigger fault codes and a six-flash indication on some boards.

Common reasons for a tripped limit include clogged air filters, closed supply registers, obstructed return air, failed blower, or a failing limit switch.

Pressure Switch Or Venting Issue

Condensing and draft-inducer furnaces use a pressure switch to confirm proper venting and inducer operation. If the pressure switch fails to close or open as expected, the control board may register a fault and flash an LED. Blocked venting, collapsed hose, or failed inducer motor are common causes.

Inducer Or Blower Motor Faults

If the inducer motor does not start or the blower doesn’t achieve required speeds, the control board can detect the anomaly and generate an error. Worn bearings, failed capacitors, or electrical faults cause these symptoms.

Control Board Or Wiring Problems

Occasionally the issue is the control board itself, damaged connectors, or shorted wiring. A six-flash pattern that persists after addressing obvious mechanical faults may indicate a board-level or wiring problem.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting For Six-Flashes

Safety First

Before any inspection: turn off power to the furnace at the thermostat and the breaker. Work only if comfortable and qualified to handle basic electrical and HVAC checks. When in doubt, call a licensed HVAC technician.

Step 1: Confirm The Code

Locate the furnace model and control board part number on the data label or inside the access panel. Compare the LED pattern to the official diagnostic chart in the furnace manual or on the manufacturer’s website to confirm the code meaning for that model.

Step 2: Power Cycle And Observe

Reset the unit by turning power off for 30 seconds then back on. Note whether the six-flash code returns immediately or after an attempt to run. Immediate return suggests a hard fault; delayed return may indicate a running component failure.

Step 3: Visual And Basic Checks

• Air Filter: Inspect and replace if dirty. Restricted airflow can trip limit switches.
• Registers: Ensure supply and return vents are open and unobstructed.
• Venting: Inspect exhaust/ intake pipes for blockage, ice, bird nests, or disconnected sections.
• Condensate Drain: Check for blockages that can trigger safety switches.

Step 4: Inspect The Inducer And Pressure Switch

With power on and the unit calling for heat, observe the inducer motor. If it fails to start or runs sluggishly, note any abnormal noises.

Check the pressure tubing for cracks, disconnections, or water/obstructions. Use a multimeter to test pressure switch continuity when induced vacuum is present if qualified to do so.

Step 5: Check The Blower And Limit Switch

Confirm the blower motor runs at expected speed when the furnace reaches the blower-on cycle. If the motor doesn’t start or runs slowly, check capacitor condition and motor electrical connections.

Test the limit switch for continuity when the furnace is cool. If the limit is open at normal temperatures, it may be failed and need replacement after confirming airflow issues are corrected.

Step 6: Examine Flame Sensor And Ignition Components

Although some boards assign different codes for ignition faults, flame sensing or short-cycling can sometimes coincide with other safety faults. Carefully clean the flame sensor with fine emery or steel wool if corrosion is visible.

Step 7: Inspect Wiring And Control Board

Look for burnt connectors, loose wiring, or signs of moisture damage on the control board. Tighten suspect terminals and reseat connectors. If the board shows physical damage, replacement may be necessary.

Tools And Tests A Homeowner Can Perform

Noninvasive checks that most homeowners can do include filter replacement, visual vent inspection, and confirming registers are open. With basic electrical knowledge, these additional checks are possible: multimeter continuity test on pressure and limit switches, checking inducer motor operation, and verifying 120/240V power at the unit.

Always follow safety procedures: disconnect power before probing, and avoid touching live terminals without proper training and tools.

When To Call An HVAC Professional

Contact a licensed technician when: the code persists after basic checks, multimeter testing is needed, motor or control board replacement is required, or the homeowner lacks the tools or comfort to work on gas-fired equipment. HVAC pros have the training to safely diagnose and repair pressure switches, inducer motors, limit switches, and control boards.

Immediate professional service is necessary if there is any suspected gas leak, unusual odors, or repeated ignition attempts without flame, as these are safety concerns.

Parts That Commonly Need Replacement

• Limit Switch: Replaced if faulty or continually tripped after airflow issues are corrected.
• Pressure Switch Or Tubing: Replace collapsed tubing or a failed pressure switch.
• Inducer Motor: Replace if it fails to start or runs slowly despite correct voltage.
• Control Board: Consider when LED codes indicate board fault or when wiring and components test good but errors remain.
• Capacitors And Blower Motor: Replace worn capacitors before full motor replacement in many cases.

Cost Estimates And Timeframe

Costs vary by region and fault. Typical ranges: limit switch replacement $150–$350, pressure switch or tubing $100–$300, inducer motor $300–$700, control board $300–$900 installed. Labor and part availability affect timelines, but many common repairs are completed in a single service visit.

Preventive Maintenance To Avoid Future Faults

Routine maintenance reduces the chance of diagnostic errors and six-flash events. Recommended tasks: replace filters every 1–3 months, annual professional tune-up, clear vents and combustion air openings, and inspect condensate drains and vent terminations seasonally.

Document any diagnostic codes and repairs after service. Keeping a maintenance log helps technicians spot recurring issues and recommend upgrades or replacements when appropriate.

Model-Specific Resources And Verification

Because LED meanings differ across Amana models and production years, always verify the six-flash definition using the furnace manual, the control board label, or the manufacturer website. Model and serial numbers on the furnace data plate are essential to obtain accurate code interpretations and correct replacement parts.

For authoritative information consult: the Amana/Goodman/Daikin technical manuals, the control board part documentation, or call manufacturer support for model-specific diagnostics.

Key Takeaways And Quick Checklist

Quick Checklist: Confirm model-specific code, power cycle to verify, check air filter and airflow, inspect venting and pressure tubing, observe inducer/blower operation, test limit and pressure switches if qualified, and call a licensed HVAC technician when needed.

Six flashes often point to safety or airflow-related issues. Prompt diagnosis and repair ensure safe, efficient furnace operation and prevent repeated lockouts or component damage.

Additional Reading And Resources

Owners should keep the furnace manual and schematic handy for quick reference. Manufacturer service bulletins and online forums can be useful for symptom patterns, but professional verification is recommended before replacing parts based on forum advice.

For a safe, reliable repair: match the LED code to the manual for the specific model, perform basic airflow and vent checks, and call a qualified technician to perform electrical and gas-system repairs.