Bryant Furnace Error Code 13: Meaning and Fix
Applies to: Bryant furnaces with a two-digit status code LED (checked against the Bryant 310AAV manual).
Also shown as: 1 short 3 long, 1 short, 3 long flashes
Reading the furnace display
A furnace reports faults on a small status LED on the control board, seen through the sight glass in the blower door, or on a two-digit display. Watch a full cycle of the pattern and count the flashes, including the pause between groups, before you decide what you saw. The code chart is on the label inside the blower door.
This page lists the fault codes this brand documents, with likely causes and a short repair path. The codes apply to model numbers such as 310AAV; check the label on your unit to confirm yours.
What causes 13
- Dirty filter or restricted ductwork letting the heat exchanger overheat
- Blocked or restricted vent, or a tripped blocked vent switch or flame rollout switch
- A failed blower motor or capacitor, or a loose blower wheel
- A defective limit switch or loose connections in the limit circuit
How to fix it
If you smell gas, leave the building and call your gas utility from outside; do not touch switches or the furnace. Switch the furnace power off before you open the blower door or touch the igniter or flame sensor, and call a licensed HVAC technician if you are not sure.
The code meaning comes from the manufacturer document listed under Sources. The causes and steps below are general troubleshooting guidance, not the manufacturer's service procedure.
- Switch the thermostat to off and replace the air filter if it is dirty.
- Make sure every supply register and return grille is open and not blocked.
- Check outdoors that the vent and intake pipes are not blocked by snow, ice, leaves or a nest.
- Do not reset a flame rollout switch repeatedly. A rollout switch trips because of a real problem such as a restricted flue, so call a licensed technician.
- Restore power and run a heating cycle. If the code returns, call a licensed HVAC technician and give them the code, the board label and the furnace model number.
Questions
What does 13 mean on a Bryant furnace?
Code 13 (1 short, 3 long flashes) on a Bryant furnace is a limit circuit lockout. The limit, draft safeguard, flame rollout or blocked vent switch stayed open for longer than 3 minutes, so the control locked out. It resets itself after three hours. See code 33 for the causes.
Can I reset the furnace myself?
The control can be reset by switching power off at the furnace switch or breaker for about 30 seconds, which clears some lockouts. If the same code returns, the fault is still present and the control will shut the furnace down again. Never bypass a safety switch to keep it running.
When should I call a technician?
Call a licensed HVAC technician for anything involving gas, the pressure switch, the limit or rollout switches, the igniter, the flame sensor or a control board replacement, or if the code keeps coming back after the simple checks.
Other brands with code 13
The same code can mean something different on another maker's appliance. Check the brand before you act.
Other Bryant furnace codes
Sources
Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Meanings compiled from manufacturer and parts-retailer documentation; see sources below. Unplug the appliance before opening it.
Applies to models including 310AAV.