Furnaces

Limit trips / overheating (airflow)

The limit protects the heat exchanger from overheating. The fix is almost always airflow: filter, blower, ducts. Rollout switch trips are different and must be referred.

Single source ~45 min moderateBrands: All

Before you start

  • If you smell gas: do not operate switches or the furnace, leave the building and call the gas utility from outside.
  • Make sure the home has a working carbon monoxide (CO) alarm; if it is sounding or anyone has headache/nausea, get everyone out and call 911 / the gas utility.
  • Turn off power at the furnace service switch or breaker before opening the burner or blower compartment; the door switch alone is not a lockout.
  • Gas-side diagnosis or repair (gas valve, gas pressure, burners, heat exchanger, venting) is for a licensed gas/HVAC technician only.
  • Never jumper or bypass a limit, rollout or pressure switch.

Diagnostic steps

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OnCall Tech is a reference tool for trained technicians and can make mistakes. Always disconnect power and confirm with the manufacturer's documentation before you work.

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Limit trips / overheating (airflow) · OnCall Tech