Carrier and Bryant 13 Error Code: Limit circuit lockout
Updated October 2026 · Sourced from Carrier and Bryant documentation
Carrier and Bryant 13 means different things on different series:
- Carrier 59SC5A single-stage 4-way multipoise condensing gas furnace (Series 1 and 2): A limit or flame rollout switch has been open longer than 3 minutes and the control locked out. The control resets itself after three hours.
- Bryant 926TC two-stage variable-speed ECM multipoise condensing gas furnace: A switch in the main limit circuit has been open longer than 3 minutes and the control locked out.
Is it safe to keep running? Check the steps below first. Call a licensed technician if the code returns. The service label says a flame rollout switch needs a manual reset and a cause such as restricted venting or a bad blower must be found.
13 at a glance
| Code / how it shows | Meaning | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| 13 Status LED flashes: first digit is short flashes, second digit is long flashes | Limit circuit lockout | Carrier 59SC5A single-stage 4-way multipoise condensing gas furnace (Series 1 and 2) |
| 13 Also: 13.1 Status LED flashes: first digit is short flashes, second digit is long flashes; display shows 13.1 | Limit lockout (main limit circuit open) | Bryant 926TC two-stage variable-speed ECM multipoise condensing gas furnace |
Check this first
Only steps a homeowner can do safely. Do not open electrical panels or the burner area.
- Replace the air filter if it is dirty, and make sure the supply and return vents are open and not blocked.
- Turn the furnace power off at the switch or breaker, wait one minute, then turn it back on to see whether the code returns.
🛑 Stop and call a licensed pro if
- Call a licensed technician if the code returns. The service label says a flame rollout switch needs a manual reset and a cause such as restricted venting or a bad blower must be found.
- Call a licensed technician if it repeats. A manual-reset rollout switch must not be jumpered or reset by a homeowner.
- You smell gas. Leave the house, do not touch switches, and call your gas utility from outside.
- Flame rollout, limit or pressure switch codes that come back after one reset.
- Anything involving the control board, gas valve, flame sensor, igniter or venting.
- A carbon monoxide alarm sounds. Get everyone outside and call 911 or the fire department.
Safe first steps for any Carrier and Bryant code
- Count the LED flashes through the blower door window before you switch anything off. Cutting power can clear the code.
- Replace or clean the furnace air filter.
- Check the thermostat: correct mode, set above room temperature, and fresh batteries.
- Make sure the furnace power switch and breaker are on. If the furnace has locked out, turning the power off and back on once restarts it.
- Make sure the gas valve is in the ON position, following the lighting instructions on the furnace label only.
- On high-efficiency furnaces, look at the outside vent and intake pipes for snow, ice, leaves or nests (look only, do not take pipes apart).
Sources: Carrier 59SC5A Installation, Start-up, Operating and Service and Maintenance Instructions, Fig. 62 Service Label, p.67; Bryant 926TC Installation, Start-up, Operating and Service and Maintenance Instructions, Service Label (Status Code Table), p.56. Codes are series-specific, so your unit's own manual is the final word. Reviewed October 2026.
Shaun Cain · Certified HVAC & Refrigeration Technician · Ask an HVAC technician