Goodman GMVC960803BN Error Code EEC: External Gas Valve Error
What Does Code EEC Mean?
EEC on the Goodman GMVC960803BN is an external gas valve error: the control module has detected that the gas valve circuit is energized when no ignition sequence is active. Because an energized valve outside of a heat call risks uncontrolled gas flow, the furnace shuts down as a safety measure.
The most likely causes are miswired or shorted gas valve wiring that creates an unintended power path to the valve, or a gas valve relay on the control board stuck in the closed (energized) position so it cannot de-energize the valve. A shorted gas valve solenoid coil can also keep the circuit pathway active. In each case the control board sees the valve as powered when it should be off.
This is the mirror image of EEb, where the valve fails to energize when it should. EEC is the more hazardous of the two because it involves gas flow potentially being enabled without a command. Turn off the gas supply valve at the furnace and call an HVAC technician. Do not attempt to reset or operate the furnace until the wiring and the control board relay have been inspected and confirmed safe.
What You'll Notice
- The furnace has shut down on a safety lockout and will not operate
- The 7-segment display shows EEC
- The lockout is tied to the gas valve circuit rather than airflow or ignition
- It may follow recent gas-valve or control-board wiring work
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Miswired or shorted gas valve circuit | Most common | ✗ Call a pro → |
| Gas valve relay stuck closed on control board | Common | ✗ Call a pro → |
How This Is Diagnosed
With the gas supply shut off, a technician inspects the gas valve wiring for shorts and tests whether the gas valve relay on the integrated control module is stuck closed. Because the valve may be energized in an uncontrolled way, the gas is turned off before any circuit testing begins and the furnace is kept off until the fault is cleared.
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:
- EEC is present — the gas supply should be shut off and a technician called immediately, without resetting or running the furnace
- The gas valve relay on the control board is stuck closed and the control module must be replaced
- Shorted or miswired gas valve wiring is found and must be repaired and verified before the furnace returns to service
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is EEC considered a safety issue?
EEC means the gas valve is receiving power when it should be off, which risks uncontrolled gas flow. It is the opposite of EEb, where the valve fails to energize. Shut off the gas and call a technician right away.
Should I keep trying to restart the furnace?
No. Do not reset or run the furnace. Turn off the gas supply valve and wait for professional service, since the fault involves the gas valve being energized when it should not be.
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026