Troubleshooting Lennox Circuit Boards

A furnace's control board is usually located behind a door on the front of the HVAC system.

Both types of boards use identical diagnostic codes to simplify the troubleshooting process.

1. Place the HVAC unit's thermostat at a temperature that causes the unit to ignite. Make sure the furnace's power switch is turned off prior to opening the board's door. Locate the circuit board door on the HVAC system. Look for a plate with a sticker bearing the Lennox name. Remove the screws holding the plate or door in place with a flat-head screwdriver. Locate both LED lights on the circuit board and determine which functions as the first light and the second light.

2. Observe whether either light is off or on. Determine if one or both of the lights are flashing and whether the flashes are fast, slow, alternating or simultaneous. Match up what each LED light is doing with Lennox's diagnostic code table. For example, if the first light is giving off a slow flash and the second light provides steady illumination, this could indicate a problem with the primary or secondary voltage limit.

3. Consult the list of diagnostic codes to determine the root cause of the HVAC system's failure. Consult the description provided in the diagnostic code table to determine a potential fix and what a technician may need to repair. For example, a slow flash from the first LED light and a fast flash from the second LED light often indicates a problem with a low flame signal. In this case, a technician would need to replace the system's flame sense rod.

4. Write down the results of the circuit board diagnostics. Screw the board's plate door back onto the front of the HVAC system with the flat-head screwdriver. Restore power to the HVAC system. Decide whether the necessary repairs need a professional technician or are within the realm of the homeowner's expertise. Call the electric company if the problem is the amount of voltage that the building's electric lines receive.

Tip

LED lights on a good circuit board and properly working system will illuminate a simultaneous slow or fast flash.

Warning

Make sure the power is not on prior to examining or opening up any part of the HVAC system. Electrical shock is a potential consequence. Make sure all tools are grounded prior to opening up the unit. Failure to diffuse potential electrical shock from outside objects could damage the unit and the circuit board.