Payne PG96VTA Error Code 13: Limit Circuit Lockout

What Does Code 13 Mean?

Status code 13 on the Payne PG96VTA indicates a limit circuit lockout. This occurs when the high-limit safety switch or flame rollout switch has been open for longer than 3 minutes, or when 10 successive limit trips occurred during high-heat operation. The furnace has shut down completely as a safety measure.

The limit switch monitors the temperature inside the furnace. When airflow across the heat exchanger is insufficient, temperatures rise above safe levels and the limit switch opens, cutting off gas to the burners. The blower continues running to dissipate heat. Repeated trips trigger this lockout to prevent potential damage to the heat exchanger.

The most common cause is a dirty or clogged air filter that restricts airflow through the system. Blocked or closed supply and return vents can also cause overheating. A defective blower motor or capacitor that reduces airflow is a less common but possible cause. The furnace will automatically attempt to reset after 3 hours. Code 13 is the lockout that follows status code 33 (limit circuit fault): once the limit or flame rollout switch has stayed open longer than 3 minutes, or 10 successive high-heat limit trips occur, the active 33 fault escalates to this 13 lockout.

What You'll Notice

• The furnace has gone completely quiet and stays off, with no heat for an extended period (the control holds the lockout for about 3 hours)
• The amber LED flashes one short flash followed by three long flashes (code 13)
• Before locking out, the burners shut off while the blower kept running to shed heat, and the supply air turned cool
• Rooms are noticeably colder because the furnace has stopped cycling
• In some cases a flame rollout switch with a small red reset button has popped, which a technician must reset after finding the cause

Common Causes

How to Fix It: Replace the Air Filter and Restore Airflow

What You'll Need

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

Steps

1. Turn off electrical power at the breaker and shut off the gas supply valve Locate the furnace circuit breaker and flip it to OFF. Turn the gas shutoff valve to the OFF position (perpendicular to the pipe). If you smell gas, leave immediately and call your gas company.
2. Check and replace the air filter Remove the air filter from the return air duct or furnace filter slot. If it is visibly dirty, clogged, or has not been changed in over 3 months, replace it with a new filter of the correct size. Make sure the airflow direction arrow on the new filter points toward the furnace.
3. Verify all supply and return vents are open Walk through every room and ensure all supply registers and return grilles are fully open and not blocked by furniture, curtains, or rugs. Even a few closed vents can significantly restrict airflow and cause overheating.
4. Inspect the blower area With the power off, look at the blower wheel through the access panel opening. Check for excessive dust buildup on the blower blades, which can reduce airflow. Also verify the blower wheel is securely attached to the motor shaft and not wobbling.
5. Restore power and gas, then test Turn the gas supply valve to ON and flip the circuit breaker to ON. The furnace may need up to 3 hours to auto-reset from lockout, or you can reset it by cycling the power (turn off for 30 seconds, then back on). Set your thermostat to call for heat and monitor the furnace through its heating cycle.

When to Call a Professional

Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:

• Code 13 returns after replacing the filter and opening all vents
• The blower motor does not seem to be running at full speed or makes unusual noises
• The flame rollout switch has tripped (a red button on the switch needs manual reset)
• The blower wheel is loose, damaged, or excessively dirty
• The problem occurs repeatedly even with a clean filter

✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026