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Goodman Error Code 03: Short cycling (Heat Pump)

Updated · by Aurora Star Tech Inc.

Goodman error code 03 on a heat pump means: Short cycling. It is also called Goodman diagnostic code 03.

Medium severityHeat PumpGoodman/Amana ComfortNet ASZC/GSZC/DSZC

Homeowner? What Goodman code 03 means for you

Check, then call Your heat pump is reporting: Short cycling. This is often caused by something simple. Try the safe checks below; if the code returns, book a service call before it turns into a no-heat or no-hot-water emergency.

Safe things you can check yourself

  • Check the thermostat: right mode (Heat or Cool), set a few degrees past room temperature, and fresh batteries if it uses them.
  • Check both breakers and the outdoor disconnect box beside the outdoor unit; all should be ON.
  • Look at the air filter. If it is grey and clogged, replace it; a blocked filter causes many shutdowns.
  • In winter, keep snow and ice off and away from the outdoor unit. A short defrost cycle with steam is normal.
  • Try one reset: turn the power off for 30 seconds, then back on. If the code comes back, stop resetting and call a technician.

Call (647) 657-2977Book a service call

Licensed technicians serving Vaughan, Toronto and the GTA.

What does Goodman error code 03 mean?

Each of the last 4 run cycles lasted under 3 minutes, with no protector trip and both pressure switches closed. While this code is active the minimum compressor run time is raised from 30 seconds to 3 minutes.

Applies to: Communicating 2-stage condensers and heat pumps with the PCBHR104 or PCBHR105 outdoor control (7-segment display): ASXC16/18, GSXC16/18, DSXC16/18, ASZC16/18, GSZC16/18, DSZC16/18

Common causes of Goodman code 03

  • Thermostat call dropping in and out (loose wire, bad thermostat, poor location)
  • Faulty compressor relay on the outdoor control
Safety: Gas, electrical and refrigerant work must be done by a licensed technician. Turn off power and gas before servicing, never bypass a safety control, and always follow the manufacturer's manual for your exact model.

Goodman models that use code 03

Show all 24 models

ASZC160241ASZC160361ASZC160421ASZC160481ASZC160601ASZC180241ASZC180361ASZC180481ASZC180601DSZC160241DSZC160361DSZC160481DSZC160601DSZC180361DSZC180481DSZC180601GSZC160241GSZC160361GSZC160481GSZC160601GSZC180241GSZC180361GSZC180481GSZC180601

Other Goodman Heat Pump codes

CodeMeaning
01Low side fault or low pressure switch trip
02High side fault or high pressure switch trip
04Locked rotor
05Open circuit - compressor off over 4 hours
06Open start circuit
07Open run circuit
08No line voltage
09Low 24 V control voltage
A2Outdoor air temperature sensor fault
A3Outdoor coil temperature sensor fault
b0Indoor blower not running when it should be
b9Indoor airflow lower than requested

All Goodman Heat Pump error codes →

Goodman code 03: homeowner questions

What does Goodman code 03 mean?

Short cycling. Each of the last 4 run cycles lasted under 3 minutes, with no protector trip and both pressure switches closed. While this code is active the minimum compressor run time is raised from 30 seconds to 3 minutes.

Is it safe to keep using my heat pump with code 03?

It depends on the cause. This is often caused by something simple. Try the safe checks below; if the code returns, book a service call before it turns into a no-heat or no-hot-water emergency.

Can I reset Goodman code 03 myself?

You can try one reset (power off for 30 seconds, then on). If Goodman code 03 comes back, the cause is still there and a licensed technician should check it.

Who can fix Goodman code 03 near me?

Aurora Star Tech Inc. repairs Goodman heat pumps in Vaughan, Toronto and across the GTA. Call (647) 657-2977 or book a service call online.

Homeowner help: AC Running But Not Cooling: What to Check · Heat Pump Not Heating or Blowing Cold Air

Troubleshooting guides

Source: Goodman ComfortNet ASXC/GSXC/DSXC, ASZC/GSZC/DSZC, AVPTC/MBVC service manual, Unitary Diagnostic Codes PCBHR104 p.71-77 and PCBHR105 p.78-84. Written in our own words as a summary; always check the original manual.

General guidance for qualified technicians. The manufacturer's installation and service manual and local codes always take priority. Aurora Star Tech is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by any equipment manufacturer; brand and model names are used only to identify equipment and belong to their owners.

Emergency HVAC Service

647-657-2977