Rheem RGRA-07EMAES Error Code 2 Blinks: Pressure Switch Circuit Open

What Does Code 2 Blinks Mean?

The 2-blink status code on the Rheem RGRA-07EMAES indicates the pressure switch circuit is open. The pressure switch is a safety device that confirms the induced draft motor (IDM) is creating enough negative pressure to safely vent combustion gases out of your home.

If the pressure switch does not close within 60 seconds after the IDM starts, the IDM will shut down for 5 minutes and then retry. This cycle will continue until the issue is resolved. If downtime exceeds 60 seconds, the manual also recommends checking the auxiliary limit switch.

The most common cause is a blocked or obstructed exhaust vent pipe. Snow, ice, leaves, bird nests, or insect nests can block the vent where it exits your home. Excessive vent length or too many elbows in the vent piping can also create enough resistance to prevent the switch from closing. A disconnected or cracked pressure switch hose, water or moisture in the switch or hoses, a blocked heat exchanger, or excessive wind causing backdraft are additional possibilities.

Common Causes

How to Fix It: Clear Vent Blockages

What You'll Need

• Flashlight
• Gloves

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. Inspect the exhaust vent pipe outside Go outside and locate where the furnace exhaust vent exits your home (usually a PVC pipe on an exterior wall). Check for any blockages such as snow, ice, leaves, bird nests, insect nests, or other debris. Clear any obstructions you find. Make sure the vent termination is not buried in snow or pressed against a wall.
3. Check the intake pipe if applicable If your furnace has a separate combustion air intake pipe, check it for blockages as well. Both pipes need to be clear for the furnace to operate properly.
4. Inspect visible vent piping inside Look along the vent pipes from the furnace to where they exit the building. Check for any sagging sections where water could collect, disconnected joints, or visible damage.
5. 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 listen for the draft motor to start. The furnace should proceed through the ignition sequence.

When to Call a Professional

Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:

• The vent pipes appear clear but the 2-blink code persists
• The draft motor sounds unusually loud, rattles, or does not start
• You notice the pressure switch hose is cracked or disconnected
• There is water or moisture in the pressure switch area
• The code returns intermittently, especially on windy days

✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026