Payne PG95ESA Error Code 31: HPS Pressure Switch Did Not Close or Reopened
What Does Code 31 Mean?
Status code 31 on the Payne PG95ESA indicates that the inducer housing pressure switch (HPS) did not close or has reopened during operation. This switch is a safety device that verifies the inducer motor is creating enough draft to safely vent combustion gases out of your home.
When the furnace starts a heating cycle, the inducer motor runs first to establish a draft through the heat exchanger and vent system. Once proper airflow is confirmed, the pressure switch closes and allows the ignition sequence to proceed. If the switch fails to close or reopens, the furnace will not ignite. If the HPS remains open for an extended period, the furnace control will lock out for 3 hours before retrying.
The most common cause is a blocked or restricted vent pipe or condensate drain. Since the PG95ESA is a condensing furnace, it produces water during operation. A clogged condensate drain or restricted collector box can back up and interfere with the pressure switch. Other causes include excessive wind at the vent terminal, a defective inducer motor, inadequate combustion air supply, or cracked/disconnected pressure switch tubing.
Common Causes
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:
- The exhaust vent and intake appear clear but code 31 persists
- You cannot access or clear the condensate drain or collector box
- The inducer motor sounds unusually loud, rattles, or does not start at all
- You see water pooling around the furnace base
- The code occurs only on windy days, which may indicate improper vent termination
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026