When something’s wrong with your HVAC system, one of the first places to look is your thermostat. Many models use 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 simpler 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 cover what steps your technician will take to resolve the problem, and the likely costs to do so.
Solving Error Code 411
Error code 411 is an urgent priority to take care of. You’ll see this error code appear when the outdoor unit’s low-pressure switch malfunctions five times or more throughout one heating or cooling cycle. Since this error code involves the outdoor unit, it might be involved with your air conditioner. Each time the low-pressure switch opens incorrectly, the error count increases. Once it reaches five strikes, the thermostat automatically switches 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 rather than the low-pressure switch on its own. Once the cause has been found, technicians will reset the outdoor unit by putting it in test mode or by resetting low-voltage power. Once the issue is taken care of, the error code should automatically clear.
Estimated Repair Cost
Replacing a low-pressure shutoff switch can depend on the specific model of your outdoor unit. You may expect to pay between $200 to more than $600 depending on parts and air conditioning repair costs. The shutoff switch itself runs an average of $30 to $150.
Lennox Thermostat 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 blocked. When this error code appears, it means the pressure switch won’t close. Without consistent airflow and pressure, the furnace won’t run as efficiently.
Fixing the Problem
The technician will check the high-pressure switch to determine how it functions. They’ll measure the pressure while it tries to close during a heating cycle as well as its standard operating pressure. If they recognize a problem, an obstruction preventing airflow is the most common culprit. There are several places to check, such as the vent and combustion air inducer. Technicians will look at both these components as well as the condensate drain to find the blockage.
Estimated Repair Cost
Because there are a few places to look before an obstruction can be found, labor costs should be considered when taking care of 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 identify the source.
Solved: iComfort 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 can 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 old wiring or a loose connection.
Fixing the Problem
A technician can inspect all the connections and wiring of the communicating components of your furnace. They should test voltages and wiring ohms as especially high resistance can lead to 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 down the furnace when the condensate drain pan is too full.
Estimated Repair Cost
With several possible causes, it can be difficult to determine the total repair costs of error code 31. Technicians will check the float switch to rule it out before thoroughly reviewing electrical wiring and connections. If the cause is damage or a failed component, replacement part costs should be included. You might expect to spend anywhere from $200 to more than $800 for higher-range models.