Goodman GMVC960803BN Error Code EE3: Open High Limit Switch

What Does Code EE3 Mean?

The Goodman GMVC960803BN is a two-stage, variable-speed 96% AFUE gas furnace, and its Integrated Control Module watches a primary high limit switch mounted near the heat exchanger. When the air moving across the heat exchanger is too little to carry the heat away, temperatures climb until that limit switch opens. The 7-segment display then shows EE3 and the control cuts the burners as a protective measure.

Because the danger is trapped heat rather than a fault in the gas train, the control keeps the circulator blower running continuously on an EE3. That steady blower is intentional cooling, not a malfunction. Once the heat exchanger cools below the switch's reset temperature the primary limit closes again, but if the underlying airflow restriction is still present the furnace will simply overheat and re-trip on the next call for heat.

EE3 is the primary-limit sibling of code EEd, the Auxiliary Limit Switch Open fault. EE3 comes from the limit located near the heat exchanger, while EEd comes from a separate overheat limit in the blower compartment; both are triggered by the same root problem of insufficient conditioned air. Restricted airflow can come from a clogged filter, closed or blocked supply and return vents, crushed or undersized ductwork, an incorrect blower speed setting, or a weak circulator blower motor. Only the airflow items a homeowner can safely reach are covered in the fix below.

What You'll Notice

• The furnace blows air from the vents almost non-stop, but the air is not hot and there is no real heat coming out
• EE3 is shown on the furnace's 7-segment LED display
• The burners light briefly and then shut off, after which only the blower keeps running
• The air filter is visibly gray, matted, or clogged when you pull it out
• The house is not reaching the thermostat set temperature even though the system seems to be running

Common Causes

How to Fix It: Restore Airflow by Replacing the Filter and Opening the Vents

What You'll Need

• Replacement air filter (correct size) 🛒 Find at FiltersFast · 🛒 Find at Amazon
• Flashlight

Steps

1. Turn off power at the breaker and shut off the gas supply valve Flip the furnace circuit breaker to OFF and turn the gas shutoff valve to OFF (perpendicular to the pipe). If you smell gas, leave your home immediately and call your gas company.
2. Check and replace the air filter Slide the filter out of the return duct or the furnace's filter slot. If it is dirty or has not been changed in the last 1-3 months, install a new filter of the exact same size, with the printed airflow arrow pointing toward the furnace. A restricted filter is the leading cause of EE3.
3. Open every supply register and return grille Walk the whole house and make sure all supply registers and return-air grilles are fully open and not blocked by rugs, furniture, or curtains. Closing off too many rooms starves the furnace of return air and causes it to overheat and trip the high limit.
4. Look for obvious debris in the blower area (power still off) With the breaker still OFF, use a flashlight to look into the blower-compartment opening for anything obstructing the blower wheel, such as a fallen filter, insulation, or heavy dust on the blades. Do not disassemble, unwire, or attempt to service the blower motor or the limit switch itself.
5. Restore gas and power, then run a full cycle Turn the gas valve back to ON and the breaker back to ON. Set the thermostat to call for heat and watch a complete cycle. The primary high limit resets automatically once the furnace cools.

When to Call a Professional

Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:

• EE3 comes back after the filter is replaced and all vents are confirmed open
• The blower does not seem to reach full speed or makes grinding or rattling noises
• The blower wheel is packed with dust, loose on the shaft, or physically damaged
• The furnace overheats even with a clean filter, suggesting restrictive or collapsed ductwork
• You suspect the primary high limit switch itself is faulty or the wiring is loose

✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026