Amana AMVM970803BN Error Code E16: Return Air Temperature Sensor Shorted (External)
What Does Code E16 Mean?
Error code E16 on the Amana AMVM970803BN indicates the external return air temperature sensor circuit has a short. The control board detects a shorted condition on the sensor input, preventing it from reading the return air temperature. The reading will not be visible in the CoolCloud HVAC App. In most cases the furnace will continue to operate.
A shorted sensor circuit typically means the sensor probe's conductors have made unintended contact with each other or with a grounded surface, causing the circuit resistance to drop to near zero. This can happen where wiring is pinched, where insulation is damaged, or at a connector where terminal pins have shifted. The manual also notes that if a short error is reported when the sensor probe is not plugged in, this points to a short condition on the PCB connector itself rather than in the external wiring.
A technician should check the sensor probe terminals and conductors for any points of electrical short, trace the wiring for insulation damage or pinching, and inspect the PCB connector for shorted pins. If no external short is found and E16 is reported without the probe connected, the PCB may need replacement.
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical short in sensor probe terminals or conductors | Most common | ✗ Call a pro → |
| Shorted PCB connector | Common | ✗ Call a pro → |
| Faulty PCB | Uncommon | ✗ Call a pro → |
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:
- E16 displays — a technician must inspect the sensor probe terminals and wiring conductors for electrical shorts
- If E16 is reported when the sensor probe is unplugged, the PCB connector may be shorted and PCB replacement may be necessary
- Damaged wiring with shorted insulation requires professional repair or replacement
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026