Goodman Furnace Rollout Switch Location and How to Find It

The rollout switch is a critical safety device in a Goodman furnace that detects flame or excessive heat escaping the combustion chamber. Locating and testing the rollout switch helps diagnose shutdowns and unsafe conditions. This guide explains where to find the Goodman furnace rollout switch, how it works, troubleshooting steps, replacement tips, and safety considerations for U.S. homeowners and technicians.

Item	Typical Details
Common Location	Near burner box/combustion chamber, attached to metal panel or draft hood
Function	Detects flame rollout or excessive heat; opens circuit to shut down furnace
Symptoms When Tripped	Furnace locks out, blower may run, error code on control board
Replacement Complexity	Moderate — basic wiring skills; may require panel removal and part reset

What Is A Rollout Switch And Why It Matters

The rollout switch, also called a flame rollout or limit switch, is a safety device that opens a circuit when it senses abnormal heat or flame outside the burner area. Its purpose is to prevent fire or carbon monoxide hazards by shutting down the gas valve and stopping combustion. On Goodman furnaces the rollout switch is a standard component integrated into the furnace safety chain.

Where To Find The Goodman Furnace Rollout Switch

The rollout switch is typically located adjacent to or on the front of the burner box or combustion chamber. It often mounts on a metal bracket or sheet metal panel near the burners or draft hood where flame or heat would be detected if combustion gases escaped.

Models vary, but common locations include:

• On the left or right side of the burner access panel near the burner assembly.
• At the front top edge of the burner box between the burners and heat exchanger.
• Near the induced draft motor or exhaust crossover where hot gases could roll out.

How To Identify The Rollout Switch On Goodman Furnaces

Physically the rollout switch is a small rectangular component with two or three electrical terminals and a temperature-sensitive actuator or button. It may have red or yellow reset button or a small ceramic body. The switch will be connected to low-voltage control wiring (24V) or inline with the limit circuit.

Visual clues include:

• Two spade terminals with quick-disconnect connectors.
• Wiring tied into the thermostat/control circuit rather than line voltage.
• Proximity to areas showing soot, discoloration, or heat exposure.

Common Goodman Furnace Models And Typical Switch Placement

Different Goodman series place the rollout switch in slightly different spots, but patterns hold across models:

• Mid-efficiency single-stage furnaces: rollout switch on front burner box near burners.
• Two-stage or modulating models: rollout switch may sit near draft inducer or crossover chamber.
• Upflow, downflow, and horizontal units: switch orientation changes but remains adjacent to combustion area.

Symptoms That Point To A Tripped Or Failed Rollout Switch

When the rollout switch opens, the furnace typically goes into a lockout state or prevents ignition. Common symptoms include:

• Furnace won’t light and gives an error code on the control board related to rollout/limit.
• Blower continues to run but burners do not ignite.
• Repeated lockouts after a few ignition attempts.
• Visible soot, scorching, or burnt smells near the burner area.

These signs indicate either a legitimate safety condition or a defective switch or wiring.

How To Safely Access The Rollout Switch

Safety is essential. Turn off power to the furnace at the service switch and shut off the gas before opening panels. Allow the furnace to cool if recently run. Remove the burner access panel and any screws or clips securing inspection covers to view the burner box and locate the switch.

Use a flashlight and avoid touching hot or sharp surfaces. Note wiring positions or take a photo before disconnecting anything to ensure correct reassembly.

Testing The Rollout Switch

Testing determines whether the switch is open or closed and if it’s the cause of a fault. Basic test steps for a 24V rollout switch:

1. Turn off power and gas supply.
2. Visually inspect the switch for damage, soot, or melted insulation.
3. Remove the quick-disconnect wires or note their positions.
4. Use a multimeter set to continuity or ohms. With the switch cold, it should show continuity (closed). If it reads open, the switch is tripped or failed.
5. If the switch has a manual reset button, press it and test continuity again.
6. After reassembly, restore power and observe operation. If the switch immediately reopens, an underlying combustion issue may exist.

Causes Of Rollout Switch Trips On Goodman Furnaces

Common reasons a rollout switch trips include:

• Blocked flue or venting causing combustion gases to back up and roll out.
• Cracked or damaged heat exchanger or burner box allowing flame escape.
• Improper burner adjustments leading to flame rollout.
• Restricted airflow, dirty burners, or inadequate combustion air.
• Failed inducer motor or draft pressure problems.

Identifying the root cause is essential before replacing the switch to avoid recurrence and hazards.

Replacement And Reset Procedures

If the rollout switch is defective, replacement steps are:

1. Power off and shut off gas.
2. Remove access panels and locate the switch.
3. Disconnect wiring, noting terminal positions or photographing for reference.
4. Unscrew or unclip the switch from its bracket and install the new switch in the same orientation.
5. Reconnect wires, reassemble panels, restore power and gas, then test operation.

Cost for a replacement rollout switch is typically low for parts (<$20–$60), but labor can vary. If the switch trips immediately after replacement, do not reset repeatedly; call a qualified HVAC technician.

When To Call A Professional Technician

Contact a licensed HVAC technician if any of the following apply:

• The switch trips repeatedly after replacement or reset.
• There is visible corrosion, soot, or heat damage around the burner box or heat exchanger.
• There is a suspicion of cracked heat exchanger, poor drafting, or vent blockage.
• The homeowner is uncomfortable working with gas, wiring, or internal furnace components.

Professionals can perform combustion analysis, pressure testing, and inspect the heat exchanger for cracks and other hazards that a rollout switch alone may not reveal.

Troubleshooting Checklist For Homeowners

Quick checklist to diagnose rollout-related issues:

• Check error codes on the furnace control board and refer to Goodman manual for rollout/limit codes.
• Inspect vents and chimneys for obstructions like bird nests, debris, or ice.
• Examine burners and combustion area for soot or discoloration.
• Test the rollout switch continuity with a multimeter if comfortable doing so.
• Reset the switch only once after verifying there is no immediate fire or venting problem.

Preventive Maintenance To Avoid Rollout Trips

Regular maintenance reduces the chance of rollout incidents. Recommended practices include:

• Annual professional tune-up including burner cleaning, combustion analysis, and vent inspection.
• Replace or clean air filters regularly to maintain proper airflow.
• Keep the area around the furnace clear to ensure adequate combustion air.
• Inspect vent pipes and chimney for corrosion, gaps, or blockages seasonally.

Preventive maintenance addresses underlying conditions that might otherwise cause repeated rollout switch trips.

Understanding Error Codes And Control Board Indicators

Goodman furnaces often provide LED error codes that indicate a rollout or limit fault. Consult the furnace data plate or owner’s manual to interpret codes. Typical signs include a repeated flash sequence or a specific fault LED. Recording the code and sequence speeds diagnosis and helps technicians pinpoint the issue.

Safety Considerations And Legal Notes

Never bypass a rollout switch or disable safety controls. Bypassing can create severe fire and carbon monoxide risks and may void warranties and violate local codes. Always use manufacturer-specified replacement parts and follow local regulations for gas appliance repair.

Key Takeaways For Locating The Goodman Rollout Switch

Location: Adjacent to the burner box or combustion chamber, mounted on metal panels or brackets near the burners or draft hood. Identification: Small switch with two or three terminals and a reset button or thermal element. Action: Turn off power and gas before inspecting, test with a multimeter, and replace if defective. When In Doubt: Call a licensed HVAC professional.

Resources And Further Reading

For model-specific diagrams and wiring schematics consult the Goodman furnace manual or the manufacturer’s website. HVAC trade organizations, local utility efficiency programs, and certified technicians provide reliable guidance on safe inspection and repair practices.

Searching “Goodman furnace rollout switch location” or similar phrases will return model diagrams and community troubleshooting threads, but reliance on professional diagnosis is recommended for combustion and venting issues.