HeatingCodesRheem and Ruud furnace codes 22 and 61: main limit open and blower fault
What the codes mean
In Rheem's fault code list for the (-)801T series, code 22 is Main limit or HALC open and code 61 is Blower fault: blower unable to run. The main limit is the temperature switch that guards against overheating. When it opens, the control stops the burners and relies on the blower to cool the heat exchanger. If the blower is not working, the limit stays open.
The 150-second rule
Rheem's description is specific. When the main limit has been open during a gas heat call for more than 150 seconds and has not yet re-closed, the display alternates codes 61 and 22 until the limit re-closes. After the main limit has been open for more than 150 seconds, the control declares a dead blower and the display alternates 61 and 10 (non-operational blower and soft lockout) during the one-hour lockout.
The control keeps trying. The dead-blower fault and its one-hour lockout can occur up to four times in a single heat call. On the fourth, the control enters a hard lockout and shows code 61. Rheem notes that this particular hard lockout can be reset by cycling the heat call, unlike the code 93 internal fault lockout.
Other limit-related codes on the same list
| Code | Meaning (per Rheem) |
|---|---|
| 22 | Main limit or HALC open |
| 33 | MRLC (manual reset limit control, also called rollout) open |
| 61 | Blower fault: blower unable to run |
| 10 | One-hour lockout. Alternates with the cause, for example 61 and 10. |
| 93 | Internal control fault (hard lockout, cannot be cleared by cycling the heat call) |
The rollout code 33 is the one that deserves extra caution. A rollout limit protects against flame coming out of the burner area, and it should not be reset without understanding why it tripped. Compare Goodman EE3 and E11, where the manufacturer says the cause must be found before the switch is reset.
What to do
A limit that opens because of a dirty filter or closed registers is something a homeowner can address. A limit that opens because the blower motor, capacitor or wheel has failed is not. If the furnace shows 61, treat it as a failed blower until a technician says otherwise: you will usually notice that no air comes out of the registers at all.
Safe homeowner checks for Rheem or Ruud furnace codes 22 and 61
- Turn the thermostat offLet the furnace cool. The main limit re-closes when the heat exchanger cools.
- Replace a dirty filterA clogged filter restricts airflow and heats up the heat exchanger. Install a clean filter.
- Open registers and grillesMake sure supply and return registers are open and unblocked.
- Listen and feel for the blowerSet the thermostat to heat. If the display shows 61 and you feel no airflow at the registers, turn the furnace off and call a technician.
Frequently asked questions
Does code 61 always mean the blower motor is dead?
Rheem's definition is that the control declared a dead blower after the main limit stayed open more than 150 seconds. A failed motor is a common reason, but a technician must confirm.
What is HALC?
Rheem lists "main limit or HALC open" for code 22. The document does not spell out the abbreviation in this table, so check your furnace documentation or ask your technician.
How do I clear the 61 hard lockout?
Rheem says that lockout can be reset by cycling the heat call. That only helps once the cause is fixed. If the blower is dead, the lockout will come back.
Sources
- Installation Instructions 92-24161-144-08: Upflow/Horizontal Single Stage Gas Furnaces, (-)801T and (-)(-)80MSX series, section 14 Diagnostics and Fault Codes (Rheem (Rheem and Ruud brands)) Covers: Rheem and Ruud (-)801T upflow/horizontal single-stage furnaces and (-)(-)80MSX upflow/horizontal furnaces with the seven-segment display control. Other Rheem and Ruud furnace series can use different controls.
Safety note: this page is general information drawn from the sources above. Gas, combustion and line-voltage repairs belong to a licensed professional. Your own equipment's label and manual take priority over anything here. Read the full disclaimer.