Amana AMVM970803BN Error Code EE0: Ignition Lockout
What Does Code EE0 Mean?
Error code EE0 on the Amana AMVM970803BN indicates an ignition lockout. The furnace attempted to ignite 3 times during a single call for heat and failed each time, either because the gas did not ignite or because the flame was lost shortly after being established. The furnace has locked out as a safety measure and will not attempt to fire again until it is reset.
During a normal ignition sequence, the induced draft blower starts first to clear the combustion chamber, then the hot surface igniter glows, the gas valve opens, and the flame sensor confirms that a flame is present. If the flame sensor does not detect a flame within a few seconds, the gas valve closes and the furnace tries again. After 3 failed attempts, the EE0 lockout engages.
The most common cause is a dirty or oxidized flame sensor that cannot detect the flame even though the burners are lighting. A gas supply interruption (closed valve, empty LP tank), a failed igniter, blocked flue or vent piping, or a malfunctioning pressure switch can also trigger this code. The furnace will auto-reset after approximately one hour, or you can manually reset it by cycling the power off and on.
Common Causes
How to Fix It: Clean the Flame Sensor
What You'll Need
Steps
- Turn off power at the breaker or furnace switch and shut off the gas supply valve Locate the furnace circuit breaker and flip it to OFF, or turn off the furnace power switch. Turn the gas shutoff valve to the OFF position (perpendicular to the pipe). If you smell gas, leave immediately and call your gas company.
- Verify the gas supply is on Before opening the furnace, confirm that the main gas valve supplying the furnace is in the ON position (handle parallel to the pipe). If you have an LP system, check that the tank is not empty. A closed gas valve is a common and simple cause of ignition lockout.
- Locate and remove the flame sensor Open the furnace access panel to expose the burner area. The flame sensor is a thin metal rod (usually with a porcelain insulator) mounted near the burners with a single wire attached. Remove the single mounting screw (typically 1/4-inch) and carefully pull the sensor out. Disconnect the wire connector.
- Clean the flame sensor with a Scotch-Brite pad Gently rub the metal rod of the flame sensor with a Scotch-Brite pad to remove any oxidation, soot, or carbon buildup. The rod should appear clean and shiny when finished. Wipe off any residue with a clean, dry cloth. Some HVAC professionals recommend using a Scotch-Brite pad to avoid leaving conductive residue on the sensor.
- Reinstall the flame sensor Reconnect the wire to the flame sensor and mount it back in its original position using the mounting screw. Make sure the sensor rod extends into the burner flame path and that the wire connection is secure.
- Check the flue and intake pipes Visually inspect the exhaust flue and fresh air intake pipes where they exit the home. Look for obstructions such as bird nests, ice, snow, leaves, or debris. Clear any blockages you find. Ensure the pipe terminations are not covered or blocked.
- Restore power and gas, then test Turn the gas supply valve to ON (parallel to the pipe). Restore electrical power. The furnace should reset from lockout. Set your thermostat to call for heat and watch through the ignition sequence: the inducer should start, the igniter should glow, the burners should light, and the flame should remain stable.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:
- EE0 returns after cleaning the flame sensor and verifying the gas supply
- The igniter does not glow orange/red during the ignition sequence
- The burners light but the flame appears yellow, lazy, or unstable
- You hear the gas valve click but no flame appears
- The pressure switch is not closing (inducer runs but ignition never starts)
- The code appears repeatedly after each reset
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026