Rheem R96VA0702317MSA Error Code 68: No Blower Communications
What Does Code 68 Mean?
A code 68 on the Rheem R96VA0702317MSA is a critical fault indicating the integrated furnace control board cannot establish communication with the ECM (electronically commutated motor) blower. This furnace uses an ECM blower that requires a digital data connection with the IFC to receive speed commands and operating instructions. When communication fails entirely, the blower cannot run at all and the furnace shuts down completely — no heating, cooling, or fan-only operation is possible.
When code 68 occurs during a heating call, the gas valve closes immediately, the indoor blower motor stops, and the inducer motor continues running for the post-purge cycle at the correct speed. After post-purge completes — or immediately if no heat call was active — all operations cease and the furnace waits for the fault to be cleared.
The most common cause is a loose or damaged wiring connection between the IFC control board and the blower motor. The ECM motor harness carries both power and communication signals, and a disconnection at either end breaks the communication link. Loss of line voltage to the motor — from a loose power connection or blown overcurrent device — will also trigger code 68. Faulty or corrupted model data on the memory card can occasionally disrupt communication. A completely failed motor is a less common but possible cause. A technician needs to check all wiring connections, the PFC choke, and the motor itself.
Common Causes
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:
- Call a technician to inspect all wiring connections between the IFC and the blower motor — a disconnected or loose harness is the most common and simplest fix for code 68
- If wiring is secure, the technician should verify line voltage is reaching the motor, check the PFC choke, verify model data is correct, and test or replace the ECM motor if it has failed internally
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026