Three Lennox iComfort Thermostat Error Codes and Their Meaning

When something’s messing with your HVAC system, one of the first places to look is your thermostat. Most models use a digital display that will show 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 review three serious error codes—411, 225 and 31—to find out what the problem is. We’ll also cover what steps your technician will take to fix the problem, and the possible 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 includes the outdoor unit, it can 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 immediately shuts down the outdoor unit. This is known as a lockout and is a safety feature intended to minimize damage.

Fixing the Problem

A technician will test the system charge using several methods, as the issue may be with the switch’s power connections instead of the low-pressure switch itself. Once the cause has been found, technicians can 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

Swapping out a low-pressure shutoff switch can depend on the specific model of your outdoor unit. You could expect to pay anywhere from $200 to more than $600 depending on parts and air conditioning repair costs. The shutoff switch itself costs an average of $30 to $150.

Clearing Error Code 225

Error code 225 is specific to your furnace, particularly the high-pressure switch. This switch is a safety component that releases high pressure inside the furnace, such as when airflow is obstructed. When this error code appears, it means the pressure switch can’t close. Without consistent airflow and pressure, the furnace won’t function as efficiently.

Fixing the Problem

The technician will monitor the high-pressure switch to see how it functions. They’ll measure the pressure while it attempts to close during a heating cycle as well as its general operating pressure. If they recognize a problem, an obstruction stopping airflow is the most common culprit. There are a few places to check, such as the vent and combustion air inducer. Technicians will check both these components as well as the condensate drain to locate 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 resolving error code 225. Ultimately, the total cost of this furnace repair will depend on where the problem is found as well as how long it takes the technician to identify the source.

Clearing 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. Several 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 problem, like frayed wiring or a loose connection.

Fixing the Problem

A technician can take a look at all the connections and wiring of the communicating components of your furnace. They will 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 off the furnace when the condensate drain pan is too full.

Estimated Repair Cost

With several potential causes, it can be difficult to estimate the total repair costs of error code 31. Technicians will inspect 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 can expect to spend anywhere from $200 to more than $800 for higher-range models.