Lennox Furnace Error Code E274: How to Fix It

Medium 45-90 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
E274
Brand
Lennox
Product Type
furnace
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
45-90 minutes
Lennox furnace error code E274 indicates that the outdoor coil temperature sensor is either open (broken connection) or shorted (electrical fault). This sensor monitors the temperature of your heat pump's outdoor coil to ensure proper operation and prevent damage from extreme conditions.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code E274

  1. Safety First - Turn Off Power

    Always disconnect power before working on electrical components to prevent shock or electrocution.
  2. Locate the Outdoor Coil Temperature Sensor

    Be careful not to damage refrigerant lines or other components when accessing the sensor.
  3. Inspect Sensor Wiring

  4. Test Sensor Resistance

    Ensure wires are disconnected from control board before testing to get accurate readings.
  5. Check Control Board Connections

    Do not touch control board components with bare hands - use insulated tools and work carefully around circuit boards.
  6. Replace Faulty Sensor

    Ensure sensor makes proper thermal contact with the monitored surface for accurate temperature readings.
  7. Restore Power and Test

Parts You May Need

Outdoor coil temperature sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts or electrical connectors
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Electrical contact cleaner
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Outdoor coil temperature sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts or electrical connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical contact cleaner
Check Price on Amazon
Outdoor coil temperature sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts or electrical connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical contact cleaner
Check Price on Amazon
Outdoor coil temperature sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts or electrical connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical contact cleaner
Check Price on Amazon
Outdoor coil temperature sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts or electrical connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical contact cleaner
Check Price on Amazon
Outdoor coil temperature sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts or electrical connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical contact cleaner
Check Price on Amazon
Outdoor coil temperature sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts or electrical connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical contact cleaner
Check Price on Amazon
Outdoor coil temperature sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Wire nuts or electrical connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical contact cleaner
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 appears damaged, if refrigerant lines need to be disturbed, or if the error persists after sensor replacement. Also call a pro if you lack proper tools or experience with multimeter testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Lennox error code E274?
Error E274 is caused by a faulty outdoor coil temperature sensor that's either open (broken connection) or shorted (electrical fault). Common causes include sensor failure due to age, damaged wiring from weather or rodents, or loose electrical connections.
Can I run my Lennox furnace with error code E274?
No, you should not run your furnace with error E274. The system will likely shut down to protect itself from potential damage. The outdoor coil sensor is critical for safe operation and preventing compressor damage from extreme temperatures.
How much does it cost to fix Lennox error E274?
DIY repair typically costs $20-50 for a replacement sensor. Professional repair usually ranges from $150-300 depending on labor rates and whether additional wiring work is needed. The sensor itself is relatively inexpensive, but labor for diagnosis and replacement adds to the cost.
How long do Lennox coil temperature sensors last?
Lennox outdoor coil temperature sensors typically last 5-10 years depending on environmental conditions. Sensors exposed to extreme weather, high humidity, or frequent temperature cycling may fail sooner. Regular maintenance can help extend sensor life.
Will error code E274 reset itself?
Error code E274 will not reset itself until the underlying sensor problem is fixed. Simply turning the system off and on will not clear this error. The faulty sensor must be repaired or replaced for normal operation to resume.