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Lennox Error Code E120: Unresponsive device (AC)

Updated · by Aurora Star Tech Inc.

Lennox error code E120 on a air conditioner means: Unresponsive device. It is also called Lennox diagnostic code E120.

Medium severityAir ConditionerAlso Air HandlerAlso Heat Pump

Homeowner? What Lennox code E120 means for you

Check, then call Your air conditioner is reporting: Unresponsive device. 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.
  • Keep about 2 feet around the outdoor unit clear of leaves, grass and debris.
  • If you see ice on the pipes or the indoor coil, turn the system off and run only the fan for a few hours, then call a technician.
  • 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 Lennox error code E120 mean?

A component is slow to respond to the system, usually the outdoor unit answering the thermostat; often harmless and clears by itself. S30/S40 thermostat alert code 120 (shown as E120 on the unit control display).

Applies to: Lennox communicating air conditioners incl. variable-capacity inverter units in S30/S40 smart thermostat systems

Common causes of Lennox code E120

  • Slow outdoor unit response
  • Voltage leaking between strands in the cable bundle
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.

Lennox models that use code E120

EL16KC1-018-230AEL16KC1-024-230AEL16KC1-030-230AEL16KC1-036-230AEL16KC1-041-230AEL16KC1-042-230AEL16KC1-047-230AEL16KC1-048-230AEL16KC1-060-230A

Other Lennox AC codes

CodeMeaning
80002Unresponsive wireless device fault
80003Lost communication with wireless device
80005Unknown wireless device found
E105Wiring issue / communication problem
E114AC line frequency / distortion problem
E115Low secondary (24 VAC) voltage
E124Thermostat lost communication to smart hub
E125Control hardware problem
E126Control internal communication problem
E132Device control software fault
E180Outdoor temperature sensor problem
E181Outdoor suction pressure transducer fault

All Lennox Air Conditioner error codes →

Lennox code E120: homeowner questions

What does Lennox code E120 mean?

Unresponsive device. A component is slow to respond to the system, usually the outdoor unit answering the thermostat; often harmless and clears by itself. S30/S40 thermostat alert code 120 (shown as E120 on the unit control display).

Is it safe to keep using my air conditioner with code E120?

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 Lennox code E120 myself?

You can try one reset (power off for 30 seconds, then on). If Lennox code E120 comes back, the cause is still there and a licensed technician should check it.

Who can fix Lennox code E120 near me?

Aurora Star Tech Inc. repairs Lennox air conditioners 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

Troubleshooting guides

Source: Lennox Residential Communicating Systems Alert Code Guide (V2) 100017 (3/2023), Table 2 Alert Codes and Troubleshooting, p.17. 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

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