Amana AMSS960803BN Error Code 2 Flashes: Pressure Switch Stuck Closed
What Does Code 2 Flashes Mean?
Two flashes on the Amana AMSS960803BN Integrated Control Module mean the pressure switch circuit is reading closed before the induced draft blower begins operating. The pressure switch is a safety device that should only close once the inducer motor is running and pulling enough draft to safely vent combustion gases. If the board sees it closed at rest, it cannot trust that the switch is doing its job, so it stops the ignition sequence before any gas flows.
The most common cause on this furnace is a pressure switch whose internal contacts have physically stuck together. The switch cycles open and closed on every heating call, and over many seasons the contacts can corrode, wear, or weld. A less common cause is a short in the pressure switch wiring that feeds a false closed signal back to the module.
This is the mirror image of the three-flash code on the same board. Two flashes means the switch is stuck closed when it should be open, while three flashes (Pressure Switch Open) means the switch fails to close after the inducer starts — a draft or blockage problem rather than a stuck switch. Because both point to the pressure-switch safety circuit, Amana lists this as professional service rather than a homeowner repair.
What You'll Notice
- The furnace will not start a heating cycle even though the thermostat is calling for heat
- The diagnostic LED flashes twice, pauses, and repeats
- The inducer motor does not spin up as it normally would at the start of a cycle
- No ignition attempt follows the call for heat
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure switch contacts stuck closed | Most common | ✗ Call a pro → |
| Short in pressure switch wiring | Uncommon | ✗ Call a pro → |
How This Is Diagnosed
Because the fault is that the switch reads closed while the inducer is off, a technician first confirms the inducer really is stopped and then measures the pressure switch across its terminals with the inducer at rest — a healthy switch should read open. If it reads closed with no draft present, the switch itself is confirmed stuck and is replaced with the correct part. If the switch tests good, attention shifts to the wiring harness, where a pinched or chafed wire shorting to ground can mimic a closed switch. This is electrical and safety-circuit work, so it is not a homeowner repair on this furnace.
When to Call a Professional
This code involves components that are not homeowner-serviceable, so have a licensed HVAC technician diagnose and repair it. Keep in mind:
- The furnace shows two flashes and will not begin its ignition sequence
- The inducer motor is clearly not running yet the board still reports the pressure switch closed
- The code returns immediately every time the thermostat calls for heat
- The two-flash code appeared soon after other service or parts work near the inducer or pressure switch
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 2 flashes mean on my Amana AMSS960803BN?
The control board sees the pressure switch closed before the inducer motor has started, which should not happen. It is a safety lockout, most often caused by a pressure switch with stuck contacts.
Can I fix a 2-flash pressure switch code myself?
No. Amana lists this as professional service on this furnace because it involves testing and replacing a safety switch and inspecting its wiring. A technician can confirm whether the switch is stuck or a wire is shorted.
Is a stuck pressure switch expensive to replace?
The pressure switch itself is a relatively inexpensive part, though total cost depends on labor and your region. It is worth a proper diagnosis so the switch is not replaced when the real issue is a shorted wire.
Sources
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026