Ruud Error Code 33: Fan Motor Fault

How to Fix Ruud Code 33

1. Step 1: Check the furnace filter. A severely clogged filter restricts airflow and can overwork the blower motor. Replace it with a clean filter.
2. Step 2: Ensure all vents are open and not blocked by furniture. Proper airflow is important for the furnace to operate correctly.
3. Step 3: Reset the furnace by turning off the power at the breaker for a few minutes, then turning it back on. This might clear a temporary error.
4. Step 4: If the error persists after these steps, contact a qualified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair.

How to Reset Ruud Code 33

1. Turn off the furnace power switch, usually located on or near the unit.
2. Turn off the circuit breaker for the furnace. Wait 30 seconds.
3. Restore power at the breaker and flip the furnace switch back on.
4. Set the thermostat to call for heat. If the error code returns after 2-3 ignition attempts, the fault requires repair.

Resetting clears the code from the display but does not fix the underlying fault. If the code returns after reset, proceed to the diagnostic steps above.

What Does Ruud Error Code 33 Mean?

Error code 33 on your Ruud furnace indicates a 'Fan Motor Fault'. This means the furnace's control board isn't receiving the expected feedback from the blower motor. The blower motor is responsible for circulating heated air throughout your home. When this motor malfunctions or the control board loses communication with it, the furnace will typically shut down as a safety measure. This prevents the furnace from overheating and potentially causing damage to other components. It's important to address this issue promptly to restore heating to your home and prevent further complications with your furnace system. There are several reasons why this fault might occur, ranging from a simple wiring issue to a complete motor failure. The control board is constantly monitoring the motor's speed and electrical current. If either of these fall outside of the expected range, or if the board detects no signal at all, it will trigger the error code 33 and shut down the furnace. A faulty control board itself could also cause this error, although that is less common than motor or wiring problems.

Common Causes

• Faulty blower motor (failed windings, worn bearings)
• Wiring issues between the control board and blower motor (loose connections, damaged wires)
• Failed blower motor capacitor
• Obstructed blower wheel (restricting airflow and overloading the motor)
• Faulty furnace control board

Diagnostic Steps

Replacement Parts

Related Codes on Same Models

Other codes that affect the same Ruud model families as 33.