What does it mean when my furnace says limit switch open?

If the furnace failure code indicates an “open limit” or “open high temperature switch” or “open rollout switch”, it is probable that the furnace has overheated. The limit switch shuts off the burner when the temperature exceeds a preset temperature. When the temperature reduces to normal, the burner will come back on.

What causes high limit switch open?

The high limit switch has a flame sensor rod that detects air temperatures in the plenum of the furnace. If it is dirty, it cannot properly detect temperatures, which is one reason why the furnace high limit switch trips.

How do I know if my limit switch is bad on my furnace?

The most common sign of a malfunctioning limit switch is the continuous operation of your furnace’s blower. Just as the limit switch won’t allow the fan to turn on until the warm air has reached the right temperature, the limit switch also shuts down when the air cools to a certain temperature.

What causes limit switch failure?

These problems are most commonly brought on by airflow issues in your system. When your furnace doesn’t have proper airflow, like when it is operating with a dirty filter, your heat exchanger will repeatedly overheat and put your limit switch through excess wear and tear. This can eventually cause it to malfunction.

What causes a limit switch to go bad?

Over time, your furnace’s limit switch can develop problems. When your furnace doesn’t have proper airflow, like when it is operating with a dirty filter, your heat exchanger will repeatedly overheat and put your limit switch through excess wear and tear. This can eventually cause it to malfunction.

Are furnace limit switches normally open?

The limit switch is a normally closed switch in series with the sail switch and the thermostat. Being temperature actuated, it is designed to “snap open” when an over temperature condition occurs. Thus the switch is normally opening under full load conditions and that causes arcing of the contacts.

How do you manually reset a limit switch?

The contacts open (limit) at a factory set point. Once that limit is reached, a human must manually press the red reset button for the switch to return back to the normally closed state.

Can you bypass furnace limit switch?

There is no good reason for a consumer to bypass a furnace limit switch. Furnace switches are reliable, inexpensive to replace, and are designed for protection of the consumer. Bypassing a furnace limit switch or any home heating component can create dangerous safety and fire hazards.

What does a furnace limit control switch do?

A furnace limit switch is a component of a forced-air furnace that is responsible for turning on the furnace blower once the desired heat has been met inside the furnace. Without a functioning furnace limit switch, a furnace would not be able to regulate the temperature in conjunction with a thermostat.

Where is the limit switch on my furnace?

M Oglesby : It is a rectangular or square looking device that has two wires attached to it and is usually located inside the furnace cabinet and sits on the back panel wall just above the gas valve. Locate it and let me know when you find it. M Oglesby : It is usually about 2 inches X 3 inches.

What does my furnace error code say is open?

My furnace error code says my limit switch is open and should be closed. I am looking for the limit switch and trying to My furnace error code says my limit switch is open and should be closed. I am looking for the limit switch and trying – Answered by a verified HVAC Technician

What to do if your furnace has an open high temperature switch?

If the furnace failure code indicates an “open limit” or “open high temperature switch” or “open rollout switch”, it is probable that the furnace has overheated. Limit switches turn off the burner and turn on the circulating fan if there is a high temperature condition in the furnace.

Why does my furnace limit not reset on its own?

Occasionally, the limit will not reset on its own. This is usually because the low air flow that caused the problem has continued for too long. The switch can be removed and struck against the furnace body lightly. This may break loose the contacts inside. If this solves the problem do not trust the switch not to fail again. Replace it.