Amana AMVC960803BN Error Code E13: Redundant Relay Stuck Closed
What Does Code E13 Mean?
The AMVC960803BN protects the gas valve with two relays on its Integrated Control Module: a primary relay that operates the valve and a redundant relay that serves as a backup shutoff. The board watches both. E13 is set when the redundant relay is detected stuck in the closed (energized) position when it should be able to open. Because that relay is part of the circuit that guarantees the board can cut gas, losing its ability to open removes a safety layer, and the furnace shuts down and refuses to run.
The most common reason is welded relay contacts on the control board, typically from overcurrent, heat, or age. Since the redundant relay is integral to the Integrated Control Module, correcting E13 normally means replacing the board, after a technician confirms the stuck-closed state rather than a wiring or power misread.
E13 is the more serious half of the E12/E13 pair: E12 is the redundant relay stuck OPEN (no gas flows, a no-heat fault), while E13 is stuck CLOSED, meaning the gas-valve circuit could stay energized even when the furnace is commanded off. Because of that, turn off the manual gas shutoff valve and do not reset or operate the furnace until a professional has replaced the control board. It shares its safety concern with EEC (gas valve energized when it should not be).
What You'll Notice
- The 7-segment display shows E13
- The furnace shuts down and will not run
- The code returns immediately after any reset attempt
- The blower or inducer may run as a protective response
- In rare cases a faint gas odor (if you smell gas, leave and call your gas company)
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Redundant gas valve relay welded/stuck closed on control board | Most common | ✗ Call a pro → |
How This Is Diagnosed
With the gas supply shut off for safety, a technician confirms the redundant gas-valve relay on the Integrated Control Module is genuinely stuck closed and not simply being misread. They rule out wiring and power-supply issues that could mimic the fault, then, because the welded relay cannot be serviced on its own, replace the control board. All of this is done with the gas isolated since a stuck-closed relay can keep the valve circuit energized.
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:
- E13 is displayed — turn off the gas supply and do not reset or run the furnace
- The code returns instantly after a reset
- You notice any gas odor near the furnace (leave the home first and call your gas company)
- You need the control board replaced to clear the stuck relay
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I turn off the gas for E13 but not necessarily for E12?
E13 means the backup relay is stuck closed, so the gas-valve circuit could remain energized when it should be off. E12 is stuck open, which only prevents gas flow. The stuck-closed condition is why E13 warrants shutting the gas supply.
Can E13 be fixed without replacing the control board?
Usually no. The redundant relay is built into the Integrated Control Module, so a welded relay generally requires replacing the whole board after a technician confirms the diagnosis.
Is it safe to keep using the furnace with E13?
No. The control has removed a gas-shutoff safety layer and locked the furnace out on purpose. Leave the gas off and have it serviced before running it again.
Sources
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026