Amana AMSS960803BN Error Code 8 Flashes: Igniter Circuit Fault
What Does Code 8 Flashes Mean?
Eight flashes on the Amana AMSS960803BN Integrated Control Module indicate a fault in the igniter circuit. The hot surface igniter is the component that glows red-hot to light the gas burners; if the board cannot verify a healthy igniter circuit, it will not open the gas valve, so the furnace produces no heat.
The most common cause is a failed hot surface igniter. These igniters are made of a brittle ceramic material that can crack or develop an internal open circuit over years of heating and cooling — sometimes with visible damage, sometimes looking intact but electrically broken. Loose or disconnected wiring between the control module and the igniter, or a poor unit or burner ground, can also open the circuit, and less commonly the control module itself is at fault.
This code is closely related to the one-flash Ignition Lockout code. Eight flashes is specifically an igniter-circuit problem the board detects before or during the attempt to light, whereas one flash is the lockout that follows three failed ignition attempts for any reason, including a bad igniter. Because diagnosis and repair involve the igniter, its wiring, and grounding, Amana lists this as professional service — hot surface igniters are fragile and are easily broken if handled without care.
What You'll Notice
- The furnace does not fire and produces no heat
- The diagnostic LED flashes eight times, pauses, and repeats
- During startup the igniter does not glow, or glows only faintly, before the board gives up
- You may hear the inducer run and then the sequence stops with no ignition
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Failed hot surface igniter | Most common | ✗ Call a pro → |
| Loose or disconnected igniter wiring | Common | ✗ Call a pro → |
| Poor unit or burner ground | Uncommon | ✗ Call a pro → |
How This Is Diagnosed
Because the fault is in the igniter circuit, a technician isolates whether the problem is the igniter, its wiring, or the board. With power off they inspect the igniter for cracks and check its electrical resistance to see whether it has failed open, then verify the wiring and connector between the control module and the igniter are secure and undamaged. They also confirm the unit and burner grounds are solid, since a poor ground can disturb the circuit, and only after those check out would the control module be suspected. This work involves the ignition and grounding circuits, 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 eight flashes and will not fire
- The igniter does not glow during the startup sequence
- The code appeared after service work near the igniter or its wiring
- You have confirmed the furnace has power and gas but it still will not ignite
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 8 flashes mean on my Amana AMSS960803BN?
It means the control board detected a problem in the igniter circuit and will not open the gas valve. The most common cause is a failed hot surface igniter, though loose wiring or a poor ground can also be responsible.
Can I replace the igniter myself?
Amana lists this as professional service on this furnace. Hot surface igniters are fragile ceramic parts that break easily, and the circuit also involves wiring and grounding checks, so a technician should test and replace it.
How long does a furnace igniter last?
Igniters are wear items that fail after years of normal cycling, but exact lifespan varies widely with use and conditions. If yours has failed, replacing it is a common and usually straightforward repair whose cost varies by region.
Sources
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026