Payne PG96VTA Error Code 33: Limit Circuit Fault

What Does Code 33 Mean?

Status code 33 on the Payne PG96VTA indicates a limit circuit fault. A safety limit switch or flame rollout switch has opened because the furnace is running too hot. The blower will run for at least 4 minutes or until the switch resets (whichever is longer) to cool the furnace down.

If the limit switch stays open for more than 3 minutes, the code escalates to lockout code 13, and the furnace will shut down completely for 3 hours. If two successive low-heat limit trips occur, the furnace will switch to high-heat only mode. The flame rollout switch requires manual reset — it has a small red button that must be pressed to restore operation.

The most common cause is a dirty air filter restricting airflow through the heat exchanger. Other causes include a loose blower wheel, defective blower motor or capacitor, restricted vent, inadequate combustion air, improper gas pressure adjustment, or a stuck high-heat solenoid in the gas valve. Since code 33 can escalate to code 13 lockout, it is important to address the root cause promptly.

Common Causes

How to Fix It: Replace the Air Filter and Check Airflow

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 at the breaker and shut off the gas supply valve 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, leave immediately and call your gas company.
2. Check and replace the air filter Remove the air filter from the return air duct or furnace filter slot. If it is visibly dirty, clogged, or has not been changed in over 3 months, replace it with a new filter of the correct size. Make sure the airflow direction arrow on the new filter points toward the furnace.
3. Verify all supply and return vents are open Walk through every room and ensure all supply registers and return grilles are fully open and not blocked by furniture, curtains, or rugs. Even a few closed vents can significantly restrict airflow and cause overheating.
4. Inspect the blower area With the power off, look at the blower wheel through the access panel opening. Check for excessive dust buildup on the blower blades. Also verify the blower wheel is securely attached to the motor shaft and not wobbling.
5. Check for a tripped flame rollout switch Look for a small switch near the burner area with a red reset button. If the flame rollout switch has tripped, it indicates flames were escaping the burner area — this is a serious safety concern. Note whether it was tripped, but do not reset it until an HVAC technician has inspected the cause.
6. Restore power and gas, then test Turn the gas supply valve to ON and flip the circuit breaker to ON. Set your thermostat to call for heat and monitor the furnace through its heating cycle. Watch for the code to reappear.

When to Call a Professional

Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:

• Code 33 returns after replacing the filter and opening all vents
• The flame rollout switch has tripped (red button popped out)
• The blower motor does not seem to be running at full speed or makes unusual noises
• The blower wheel is loose, damaged, or excessively dirty
• The code escalates to lockout code 13 repeatedly

✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026