Goodman Furnace Error Codes and Troubleshooting Guide

Goodman furnace error codes help homeowners and HVAC technicians quickly diagnose common issues with furnaces. This guide explains the most common Goodman furnace error codes, what they mean, possible causes, and recommended troubleshooting steps to restore heating safely and efficiently.

Indicator	Typical Meaning	Quick Action
Solid Green	System running normally	None
Flashing Green	System in standby; waiting for call	None
1 Flash (Red)	Open high-limit or rollout switch	Check airflow, replace switch if faulty
2 Flashes (Red)	Pressure switch fault	Inspect venting, hose, induced draft motor
3 Flashes (Red)	Ignition failure	Check gas supply, ignitor, flame sensor

How Goodman Furnace Error Codes Work

Goodman furnaces use a status LED, typically on the control board, to communicate operational condition and fault codes through steady lights or flashing sequences. The codes vary slightly by model, but most follow a pattern of green indicating normal operation and red indicating a fault with a numbered flash count. Interpreting these patterns allows targeted diagnostics without disassembling the entire unit.

Common Goodman Furnace Error Codes And Meanings

Normal Operation Indicators

Solid Green: The furnace control board is powered and operating normally. No action is needed when this indicator is steady.

Flashing Green: The unit is waiting for a call for heat or is in standby. This often appears when thermostat settings are not requesting heat or during short recovery cycles.

Red Flash Codes (Most Common Faults)

1 Flash – Open High-Limit Or Rollout Switch: This indicates the furnace detected an overheated condition or an open safety switch. Common causes include restricted airflow from a dirty filter, blocked vents, or a failing fan. Inspect airflow and replace the limit switch if necessary.

2 Flashes – Pressure Switch Fault: The pressure switch ensures proper venting and inducer motor function. A failure can be caused by blocked venting, a collapsed pressure hose, a failing inducer motor, or a defective pressure switch. Check vent clearances and the rubber hose for cracks or disconnections.

3 Flashes – Ignition Failure: The furnace tried to ignite but detected no flame. Possible causes include loss of gas supply, a defective ignitor, dirty flame sensor, or gas valve problems. Verify gas supply first and then inspect the ignitor and flame sensor.

4 Flashes – Flame Loss After Ignition: The control board sensed flame during ignition but it dropped out. This fault can indicate a weak flame, flame sensor contamination, gas pressure instability, or combustion air issues. Cleaning the flame sensor often resolves this code.

5 Flashes – Open Primary Limit: Similar to 1 flash but specifically referencing the primary limit switch. This points to overheating likely from poor airflow or blocked return ducts. Replace the switch after addressing airflow issues.

6 Flashes – Blower Motor Fault: This code appears when the blower fails to operate or draws excessive current. Causes include motor failure, a seized blower wheel, failed capacitor, or control board relay issues. Measure voltage and current to the motor to isolate the problem.

7 Flashes – Low Flame Sense: The control board is not detecting sufficient flame current. Common causes are dirty flame sensor, poor grounding, or a weak electronic ignition. Cleaning and re-seating the flame sensor often clears this error.

Model-Specific Variations And Where To Check

Goodman error code patterns may vary between residential furnace families such as GMVM, GMVC, and GMPN. Always consult the furnace’s installation and service manual for the exact meaning of LED codes for that model. The control board label or the manual typically includes a table mapping LED behavior to fault descriptions.

If the manual is unavailable, Goodman’s website provides downloadable product literature and wiring diagrams. HVAC technicians commonly reference the control board part number and label for model-specific diagnostics.

Step-By-Step Troubleshooting Workflow

1. Power And Visual Inspection: Confirm the unit has power and inspect the control board LED for code. Look for obvious signs like loose wires, burn marks, or disconnected hoses. Turn off power before touching wiring.
2. Check Airflow: Ensure the air filter is clean and return/supply vents are not blocked. Restricted airflow is a frequent cause of high-limit and shutdown issues.
3. Examine Venting And Flue: For pressure switch and inducer-related codes, inspect the vent termination for obstructions, debris, or bird nests. Verify PVC or metal flue connections are intact.
4. Inspect Safety Switches: Test limit, rollout, and pressure switches for continuity with a multimeter. Replace any switches that fail to close under normal conditions.
5. Test Ignition Components: For ignition failure and flame loss codes, check the ignitor for resistance and visual cracks, clean the flame sensor, and verify stable gas supply to the furnace.
6. Blower And Motor Diagnostics: Measure voltage to the blower motor and check the capacitor. Lubricate or replace the blower wheel if it binds. Replace motor when electrical faults or mechanical failure is confirmed.
7. Reset And Monitor: After repairs, restore power and monitor the furnace through several cycles to confirm the error code does not reoccur. Document any intermittent behaviors for a technician if problems persist.

When To Call A Professional HVAC Technician

While homeowners can perform basic checks like replacing filters or cleaning the flame sensor, many Goodman furnace error codes involve gas, combustion, or electrical hazards that require licensed service. Call a certified HVAC technician when the fault involves gas valves, persistent pressure switch failures, repeated ignition errors after basic cleaning, or when electrical components indicate failure.

Technicians will have the necessary tools for accurate diagnostics, such as combustion analyzers, manometers for gas pressure, and manufacturer-specific service information to ensure safe, code-compliant repairs.

Safety Precautions And Best Practices

• Turn Power Off: Always switch off power at the furnace switch or breaker before inspecting internal components.
• Gas Safety: If the smell of gas is detected, evacuate the home and call the gas company or emergency services immediately.
• Use Correct Parts: Replace sensors, switches, and control boards with manufacturer-approved parts to maintain warranty and safe operation.
• Document Codes: Record the LED patterns and any diagnostic steps taken to help a technician if professional service becomes necessary.

Maintenance Tips To Prevent Error Codes

Regular preventative maintenance reduces the incidence of Goodman furnace error codes. Homeowners should replace filters every 1–3 months, keep returns and vents unobstructed, and schedule annual professional inspections and tune-ups.

During a maintenance visit, a technician will inspect heat exchangers, test safety controls, clean ignition components and burners, and verify ventilation. Annual maintenance helps identify worn parts before they trigger fault codes or cause safety concerns.

Understanding The Cost Implications Of Common Repairs

Repair costs vary by fault. Simple homeowner tasks like cleaning a flame sensor are low cost, often under $50 if parts are needed. Replacing an ignitor typically ranges from $100 to $300 including labor. Replacing control boards, motors, or addressing heat exchanger issues can exceed $500 and sometimes justify system replacement depending on furnace age.

When evaluating repair versus replacement, consider the furnace’s age, annual efficiency, and repair history. Furnaces older than 15–20 years with recurring major faults may be more cost-effective to replace with a modern, high-efficiency unit.

Resources And Documentation

Goodman provides owner manuals, parts lists, and wiring diagrams on its official website. Reliable third-party resources include HVAC trade sites, manufacturer service bulletins, and industry forums, which can help interpret less common LED codes and troubleshooting tips.

For safety-critical or complex faults, refer to the furnace service manual and contact qualified technicians. Warranty information is also available through Goodman and the installing contractor, which may cover certain component failures.

Troubleshooting Quick Reference Table

Error Code	Likely Cause	First Steps
1 Flash	High-limit or rollout switch opened	Check filter, airflow, and switch continuity
2 Flashes	Pressure switch or venting issue	Inspect venting, pressure hose, and inducer
3 Flashes	Ignition failure	Verify gas, check ignitor and flame sensor
4 Flashes	Flame loss after ignition	Clean flame sensor, check gas stability
6 Flashes	Blower motor fault	Test motor/capacitor and inspect blower

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Goodman Official Site provides model-specific manuals and technical resources for detailed error code mappings and replacement parts information.