When something’s messing with your HVAC system, one of the first places to check is your thermostat. Most models have a digital display that will display a specific numerical error code. This error code can be used to help diagnose the problem and speed up the troubleshooting and repair process for HVAC systems like your furnace.
This is even easier with smart thermostats like the Lennox iComfort model. Let’s take a look at three serious error codes—411, 225 and 31—to learn what the problem is. We’ll also share what steps your technician will take to resolve the problem, and the possible costs to do so.
Solving Error Code 411
Error code 411 is an urgent priority to resolve. You’ll see this error code appear when the outdoor unit’s low-pressure switch malfunctions five times or more during one heating or cooling cycle. Since this error code includes the outdoor unit, it may be involved with your air conditioner. Each time the low-pressure switch opens incorrectly, the error count increases. Once it passes five strikes, the thermostat automatically shuts down the outdoor unit. This is called a lockout and is a safety feature intended to prevent damage.
Fixing the Problem
A technician will test the system charge using several methods, as the issue could be with the switch’s power connections instead of the low-pressure switch itself. Once the cause has been determined, technicians will reset the outdoor unit by putting it in test mode or by resetting low-voltage power. Once the issue is fixed, the error code should automatically clear.
Estimated Repair Cost
Replacing a low-pressure shutoff switch might depend on the specific model of your outdoor unit. You could expect to pay between $200 to more than $600 depending on parts and air conditioning repair costs. The shutoff switch itself costs an average of $30 to $150.
Solved: iComfort Error Code 225
Error code 225 is specific to your furnace, namely the high-pressure switch. This switch is a safety component that releases excess pressure inside the furnace, such as when airflow is obstructed. When this error code shows up, it means the pressure switch won’t close. Without consistent airflow and pressure, the furnace won’t perform as efficiently.
Fixing the Problem
The technician will watch the high-pressure switch to determine how it functions. They’ll measure the pressure while it attempts to close during a heating cycle as well as its standard operating pressure. If they recognize a problem, an obstruction stopping airflow is the most common culprit. There are several places to check, such as the vent and combustion air inducer. Technicians will inspect both these components as well as the condensate drain to locate the blockage.
Estimated Repair Cost
Because there are multiple places to inspect before an obstruction can be found, labor costs should be considered when resolving error code 225. Ultimately, the final cost of this furnace repair will depend on where the problem is located as well as how long it takes the technician to determine the source.
Solving Error Code 31
Seeing error code 31 on your thermostat means it hasn’t been able to communicate with your furnace for more than three minutes. Multiple components communicate with the thermostat, so you may see this error code when any of them malfunction or fail. Most of the time this can be traced back to an electrical issue, like frayed wiring or a loose connection.
Fixing the Problem
A technician can review all the connections and wiring of the communicating components of your furnace. They should test voltages and wiring ohms since especially high resistance can result in a disconnection. With a special tool called a multimeter, technicians can narrow down where the disruption originated from. Sometimes this is the furnace’s float switch, a component that shuts off the furnace when the condensate drain pan is overflowing.
Estimated Repair Cost
With several possible causes, it can be difficult to gauge the total repair costs of error code 31. Technicians will check the float switch to rule it out before systematically reviewing electrical wiring and connections. If the cause is damage or a failed component, replacement part costs should be included. You could expect to spend anywhere from $200 to more than $800 for higher-range models.