Carrier Furnace Blinking Light (Status) Codes

Carrier furnaces flash a two-digit code: short flashes are the first digit and long flashes are the second. The most common codes are 33 (limit circuit fault, often a dirty filter or blocked vents), 34 (ignition proving failure, so check that the gas is on), and 13 or 14 (a lockout that auto-resets after 3 hours). A rapid flash means reversed 115V polarity.

Smell gas, or your CO alarm sounds? Leave the house and call your gas utility or 911 from outside. Don’t try to diagnose it.

Which models this covers

Carrier 58CVA/58CVX variable-speed two-stage gas furnaces (Troubleshooting Guide TG-GFC80-02). Ultra-low-NOx models (58SU0A) use a different table. Bryant furnaces are Carrier-built, but we didn’t find a Bryant-branded chart to confirm. Codes differ between control boards, so check the code chart printed on your unit or in its manual if your model isn’t listed.

How to read the code

Look through the sight glass on the blower door. Count the short flashes (first digit), then the long flashes (second digit). Steady on means normal 24V power. Off means no power. Very rapid flashing means 115V polarity is reversed.

Status codes (58CVA/58CVX)

CodeWhat it meansWhat to do
11No previous code storedNone.
12Blower ran after power-upNone. This is normal after a power interruption.
13Limit circuit lockout (limit open over 3 minutes, or 10 trips)Check for a dirty filter and closed or blocked vents. It auto-resets after 3 hours. If it repeats, call a pro.Pro
14Ignition lockout (see code 34)Make sure the gas is on. It auto-resets after 3 hours. If it repeats, call a pro.Pro
15Blower motor lockoutCall a pro.Pro
21Gas heating lockout (no auto-reset)Call a pro.Pro
22Flame proved with gas valve off (leaky or stuck gas valve)Turn off the furnace and gas. Call a pro urgently.Pro
23Pressure switch didn’t openCall a pro.Pro
2424V fuse open (short in low-voltage wiring)Call a pro.Pro
25Model plug or setup errorCall a pro.Pro
31 / 32High-heat / low-heat pressure switch didn’t close (venting, inducer or wind)Check outside vent pipes for snow, ice or blockage. If clear, call a pro.Pro
33Limit circuit faultReplace a dirty filter and open blocked vents or registers. If a rollout switch tripped, call a pro.Pro
34Ignition proving failureCheck that the manual gas valve is on and gas service is on. If so, call a pro (often the flame sensor).Pro
41Blower motor faultCall a pro.Pro
43Low-heat pressure switch open while high-heat switch closedCall a pro.Pro
45Control circuitry lockoutTurn power off and on to reset. If it repeats, call a pro (the board may need replacing).Pro

Sources

These codes are transcribed from the manufacturer’s own documentation. Many websites repeat codes that don’t match the manuals, so when in doubt, trust the chart on your unit.

Code pointing to a big repair? Check whether to repair or replace before you pay for it.

Frequently asked questions

What does code 33 mean on a Carrier furnace?

Code 33 is a limit circuit fault: the furnace got too hot and the safety limit opened. The most common homeowner-fixable causes are a dirty air filter and closed or blocked supply vents and return grilles. If it continues, or a rollout switch tripped, call a pro.

What does code 34 mean on a Carrier furnace?

Code 34 is an ignition proving failure: the furnace tried to light but didn’t sense flame. First check that the gas valve at the furnace is on and your gas service is on. If so, a technician should check the flame sensor and ignition.

How do I reset a Carrier furnace code?

Many lockouts (13, 14) reset automatically after 3 hours. You can also turn the furnace power switch off for 10 seconds and back on. If the same code returns, there’s an underlying problem to fix.