Amana AMVC960803BN Error Code EE3: Open High Limit Switch

What Does Code EE3 Mean?

Error code EE3 on the Amana AMVC960803BN means the primary high limit switch has opened, shutting down the burners to prevent the heat exchanger from overheating. The circulator blower will continue running to cool things down.

The high limit switch is a safety device that monitors the temperature of air passing over the heat exchanger. When airflow through the furnace is restricted, the heat exchanger gets too hot, and the limit switch opens to cut off the gas valve. Once the temperature drops to a safe level, the switch may reset automatically, but the underlying airflow problem must be fixed to prevent repeated cycling.

The most common cause is a dirty or clogged air filter. A severely restricted filter chokes off the airflow the furnace needs to dissipate heat. Other causes include blocked or closed supply registers, restrictive ductwork, an incorrect blower speed setting, or a failing circulator blower motor that is not moving enough air.

Common Causes

How to Fix It: Check and Replace the Air Filter

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 and gas supply 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 at any point, leave immediately and call your gas company.
2. Locate and inspect the air filter The air filter on the AMVC960803BN is typically located in the blower compartment behind the lower access panel, or in a filter rack at the return air duct. Slide the filter out and hold it up to a light — if you cannot see light through it, it needs to be replaced.
3. Replace the air filter Insert a new filter of the correct size, making sure the airflow direction arrow on the filter frame points toward the furnace (toward the blower). A dirty filter is the most common cause of high limit trips.
4. Check all supply vents and registers Walk through your home and make sure all supply vents and return air registers are open and unobstructed. Furniture, rugs, or curtains blocking vents can restrict airflow enough to cause overheating.
5. Restore power and gas, then test Replace the access panel, turn the gas supply valve to ON, and flip the circuit breaker to ON. Set your thermostat to call for heat. The high limit switch should have reset once the furnace cooled down. Monitor the furnace to ensure it completes a full heating cycle.

When to Call a Professional

Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:

• EE3 returns after replacing the filter and opening all vents
• The blower motor is running but airflow from the vents seems weak
• You hear unusual noises from the blower motor (grinding, squealing, or humming)
• The furnace short-cycles repeatedly (runs for a few minutes then shuts off)
• You have recently made changes to your ductwork or added new rooms

✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026