When your Lennox heat pump model SL22KLV displays error code 116, it means the system has gone into freeze protection mode, likely due to a frozen indoor coil caused by low refrigerant levels, blockages, or dirty coils.
Check if the system is in freeze protection mode, inspect the indoor coil for blockages, and verify the system voltage supply is within the recommended range. You’ll need to address these underlying issues to get your heat pump running smoothly again – and there’s more to explore to get to the bottom of this issue.
Important Point
Causes of Freezing
Several factors can contribute to Lennox heat pump error codes.
When it comes to freezing, you’ll want to investigate a few key areas.
First, inspect the evaporator coil damage or blockages. If the coil is dirty, it can’t dissipate heat properly, leading to freezing.
You should also check the airflow, ensuring it’s not restricted.
Additionally, if the refrigerant charge is off, it can cause the system to malfunction, resulting in freezing.
Make sure to check the thermostat settings, as incorrect settings can also trigger the freeze protection mode.
Also, Read: Lennox SL22KLV Heat Pump Error Code 115: Compressor Overload Protection Activated
Effects of Low Refrigerant Levels
Your Lennox heat pump’s refrigerant levels play a critical role in its overall performance.
Low refrigerant levels can lead to reduced heat transfer, resulting in inadequate heating or cooling. As refrigerant circulates through the system pressure drops, causing the temperature to decrease.
If the refrigerant level is too low, the evaporator coil may freeze, triggering the error code 116. You may notice reduced airflow, increased energy bills, and decreased system reliability.
To guarantee prompt attention and prevent further damage, you must verify that your heat pump operates efficiently.
Also, Read: Lennox SL22KLV Heat Pump Error Code 114: Compressor Motor Fault Detected
Dirty Evaporator Coil Issues
When you notice a dirty evaporator coil, it’s likely causing freezing issues, which can lead to further complications.
Over time, the airflow, reducing the heat pump’s overall performance.
You’ll need to correct this issue immediately to prevent further damage.
Causes of Freezing
A dirty evaporator coil is a common culprit behind freezing issues in your Lennox heat pump.
When the evaporator coil is dirty, it reduces the heat transfer between the refrigerant and the air. This causes the refrigerant to remain in a liquid state for a longer period, leading to freezing.
As a result, the heat pump’s freeze protection mechanism kicks in, triggering error code 116.
You should also check if the outdoor coil is clean, as a dirty outdoor coil can also contribute to freezing issues.
Make sure to clean the evaporator coil to prevent freezing and guarantee your Lennox heat pump operates efficiently.
Restricts Airflow Over Time
The dirty evaporator coil’s restricted airflow over time has a significant impact on your Lennox heat pump’s performance. As dirt and debris accumulate on the coil, airflow is reduced, causing the system to work efficiency. This can lead to increased energy bills and a shorter system lifespan.
| Effect of Dirty Coil | Airflow Reduction | Energy Efficiency |
|---|---|---|
| 10% Dirty | 5% | 2% |
| 20% Dirty | 10% | 4% |
| 30% Dirty | 15% | 6% |
A dirty filter can also contribute to the restricted airflow, making it essential to regularly clean or replace the filter to guarantee peak performance.
Requires Correction Immediately
Dirty evaporator coils require your immediate attention, as they can substantially impede your Lennox heat pump‘s performance.
When the evaporator coil is dirty, it restricts airflow, which can trigger the Freeze Protection error code. This code indicates that your system is at risk of freezing, which can cause further damage.
You’ll need to clean the coil to guarantee proper airflow and prevent the error code from reappearing. Cleaning the coil will also help your system run more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and saving you money.
Don’t delay – address this issue now to get your Lennox heat pump running smoothly again.
Also, Read: Lennox SL22KLV Heat Pump Error Code 113: Blower Motor Fault Detected
Insufficient Fan Speed Problems
When your Lennox heat pump’s fan speed is insufficient, it can trigger the necessary airflow, leading to reduced system performance and potentially triggering error codes.
In this scenario, the system may not be able to dissipate heat properly, causing the indoor coil to freeze.
To resolve this issue, you’ll need to check the fan speed setting and verify it’s set correctly.
If the setting is correct, then it’s possible that the fan motor itself is faulty, and you may need to replace it.
Additionally, you should also inspect the air filters and ducts for any blockages that could be restricting the fan’s airflow, which in turn affects the fan speed.
Blower Motor Speed and Performance
You’ve checked the fan speed setting and verified it’s correct, and you’ve also inspected the air filters and ducts for blockages.
Now, it’s time to focus on the blower motor speed and performance.
If the blower motor is malfunctioning, it can cause the heat pump to malfunction, leading to increased energy bills and decreased performance.
- Motor Voltage: Confirm the voltage supply meets the blower motor specifications.
- Motor Capacitor: Check the capacitor’s condition and replace it if necessary.
- Motor Bearings: Inspect the bearings for signs of wear or damage and replace them if needed.
- Airflow Restrictions: Verify that there are no Airflow Restrictions around the blower motor.
Also, Read: Lennox SL22KLV Heat Pump Error Code 112: Defrost Mode Failure Detected
ECM Blower Motor and Indoor Control Board Issues
When troubleshooting ECM blower motor and indoor control board issues, you’ll often find that a bad module is the root cause.
This module fails due to various reasons such as overheating or electrical surges.
A bad control board can also be the culprit, so crucially, inspect and test these components thoroughly.
Bad Module Causes
The ECM blower motor and indoor control board are critical components of your Lennox heat pump system.
Issues with these components can trigger error code 116, indicating a problem with the indoor coil.
- Bad capacitor: A faulty capacitor can cause the ECM blower motor to malfunction, resulting in error code 116.
- Corrosion or rust: Corrosion or rust on the indoor control board can prevent it from functioning correctly, leading to the error code.
- Loose connections: Loose connections between the ECM blower motor and indoor control board can disrupt communication, causing the error code to appear.
- Faulty indoor control board: A malfunctioning indoor control board can prevent the system from functioning correctly, resulting in error code 116.
Module Fails Due
Faulty components in your Lennox heat pump system can trigger error code 116, and issues with the ECM blower motor and indoor control board are no exception.
When the ECM blower motor fails, it can’t regulate airflow across the indoor coil, leading to freeze protection errors.
Similarly, a malfunctioning indoor control board can disrupt communication between system components, resulting in error code 116.
You’ll need to inspect the ECM blower motor and indoor control board for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.
Verify proper connections and rule out electrical faults.
If you’re unsure, consult a professional to diagnose and repair the issue, guaranteeing your Lennox heat pump system operates efficiently and effectively.
Bad Control Board
As you inspect the ECM blower motor and indoor control board, look for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage that could be causing the bad control board issue.
A faulty control board can trigger error code 116, indicating a freeze protection issue in the indoor coil.
Check for the following signs of a bad control board:
- Burn marks or signs of overheating on the control board or components.
- Rust or corrosion on connections or terminals.
- damage to wiring or connectors.
- Unusual noises or vibrations from the ECM blower motor.
System Restrictions and Freezing Issues
When your Lennox heat pump system operates with restricted airflow, it can trigger a range of issues, including freezing coils and reduced heating performance.
This occurs because the system can’t dissipate heat properly, causing the indoor coil to freeze. You’ll notice a decrease in heating capacity, and in extreme cases, the system may shut down altogether.
To avoid freezing issues, guarantee that your system has proper airflow. Check for blockages, dirty air filters, or malfunctioning blower motors that could be restricting air circulation.
Also, Read: Lennox SL22KLV Heat Pump Error Code 111: System Overvoltage Detected
Troubleshooting and Repair Resources
Lennox’s exhaustive troubleshooting guide helps you identify and fix error codes quickly, getting your heat pump system back on track.
When dealing with error code 116, related to freeze protection, you’ll find valuable resources to troubleshoot the issue.
- Freeze protection mode: Check if the system is in freeze protection mode, which may be triggered by low temperatures or refrigerant issues.
- Indoor coil inspection: Inspect the indoor coil for signs of freezing or blockages, which can cause the error code.
- System voltage checks: Verify that the voltage supply to the system is within the recommended range.
- Error code documentation: Refer to Lennox’s documentation for a detailed explanation of error code 116 and its possible causes.
Refrigerant and Coil Issues Explained
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Low Refrigerant | Recharge the system to the recommended level. |
| Dirty Coils | Clean the coils with a soft brush or replace them if damaged. |
| Refrigerant Leaks | Inspect the system for leaks and repair them to prevent further damage. |
Also, Read: Lennox SL22KLV Heat Pump Error Code 110: System Low Voltage Detected
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Clear My Lennox Error Code?
You’ll need to resolve the error by identifying the root cause, then take corrective action, which may involve resetting the system, checking and cleaning the indoor coil, or addressing refrigerant issues to achieve successful error resolution.
What Makes AC Coils Freeze Up?
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.’ You’re wise to ask: what makes AC coils freeze up? Frozen moisture on the coil surface, often due to low airflow or refrigerant issues, blocks heat transfer, causing the coil to freeze, and that’s a recipe for disaster.
Where Is the Condenser Coil Located on a Heat Pump?
You’ll find the condenser coil is located on the Outdoor Unit of your heat pump system, where it dissipates heat from the refrigerant, allowing the system to cool or heat your space efficiently.
What Is the Problem With the Lennox Evaporator Coil?
Your evaporator coil is frozen in time, a chilly culprit behind your heat pump’s malfunction. Coil failure is the primary suspect, causing restricted airflow and inefficient heat transfer, ultimately leading to a professional to thaw out the issue.
Conclusion
“Congratulations! You’ve successfully diagnosed your Lennox heat pump’s error code -116, which means your indoor coil is frozen. Who wouldn’t want a frozen coil in the middle of winter, right? On a more serious note, identifying the root cause, dirty evaporator coil, or refrigerant issues will help you fix the problem. Now, get to work and troubleshoot the system to get your heat pump up and running smoothly again.
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