Lennox Furnace Error Code E201: How to Fix It
Medium 45-90 minutes High Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- E201
- Brand
- Lennox
- Product Type
- furnace
- Severity
- High
- DIY Difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated Fix Time
- 45-90 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Digital multimeter
- Non-contact voltage tester
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
- Wire nuts
- Electrical tape
How to Fix Error Code E201
-
Turn Off Power and Check Safety
Never work on electrical components with power on. Risk of shock or electrocution. -
Inspect Thermostat Wiring at Unit
Handle wires gently to avoid breaking connections or causing additional shorts. -
Test R Terminal Voltage
Use insulated test probes and avoid touching bare metal while testing live circuits. -
Disconnect and Test Thermostat Wires
-
Check Thermostat Wire Continuity
-
Inspect Thermostat at Wall
Mark wire positions before disconnecting to ensure proper reconnection. -
Test Control Board if Wiring is Good
-
Clear Error and Test System
Parts You May Need
Thermostat wire
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Furnace control board
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Digital thermostat
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Wire nuts and electrical tape
Check Price on Amazon
Thermostat wire
Check Price on Amazon
Furnace control board
Check Price on Amazon
Digital thermostat
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts and electrical tape
Check Price on Amazon
Thermostat wire
Check Price on Amazon
Furnace control board
Check Price on Amazon
Digital thermostat
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts and electrical tape
Check Price on Amazon
Thermostat wire
Check Price on Amazon
Furnace control board
Check Price on Amazon
Digital thermostat
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts and electrical tape
Check Price on Amazon
Thermostat wire
Check Price on Amazon
Furnace control board
Check Price on Amazon
Digital thermostat
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts and electrical tape
Check Price on Amazon
Thermostat wire
Check Price on Amazon
Furnace control board
Check Price on Amazon
Digital thermostat
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts and electrical tape
Check Price on Amazon
Thermostat wire
Check Price on Amazon
Furnace control board
Check Price on Amazon
Digital thermostat
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts and electrical tape
Check Price on Amazon
Thermostat wire
Check Price on Amazon
Furnace control board
Check Price on Amazon
Digital thermostat
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts and electrical tape
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional
Call a professional HVAC technician if you're uncomfortable working with electrical components, if the control board needs replacement, or if the short circuit location cannot be identified. Also seek professional help if multiple error codes appear or if the system repeatedly fails after repairs.Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Lennox furnace error code E201?
Error E201 is caused by a short circuit between the thermostat R (power) wire and ground. Common causes include damaged thermostat wiring, crossed wires at connections, moisture in wire junctions, or a faulty control board.
Can I reset Lennox error code E201?
E201 cannot be simply reset - the underlying short circuit must be repaired first. The error will automatically clear once the electrical fault is fixed and power is restored to the system.
Is it safe to run my furnace with E201 error?
No, never operate your furnace with error E201. This electrical short circuit can damage expensive components like the control board and poses potential fire hazards. Turn off the system immediately until repairs are completed.
How much does it cost to fix Lennox E201 error?
Repair costs vary depending on the cause. Simple wire repairs may cost $150-300, while control board replacement can range from $400-800 including labor. Thermostat replacement typically costs $200-500.
Can a bad thermostat cause E201 error?
Yes, a faulty thermostat with internal short circuits can trigger E201 error. However, damaged thermostat wiring between the wall and furnace is a more common cause than thermostat failure itself.