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Lennox Error Code E440: Inverter compressor slowdown – high heat-sink temperature (inverter code 13) (Heat Pump)

Updated · by Aurora Star Tech Inc.

Lennox error code E440 on a heat pump means: Inverter compressor slowdown - high heat-sink temperature (inverter code 13). It is also called Lennox diagnostic code E440.

Low severityHeat Pump

Homeowner? What Lennox code E440 means for you

Usually minor Your heat pump is reporting: Inverter compressor slowdown - high heat-sink temperature (inverter code 13). This code is usually informational or minor. The safe checks below often clear it; call us if it keeps showing up.

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 Lennox error code E440 mean?

Heat sink near its limit; the compressor slows (about 4 Hz, 5-6%) to cool it. Speed reduction starts above 185 F and full speed resumes at 176 F. Normal for 3-4 minutes above 110 F outdoor (dealer information). Inverter LED flash code 13 (red 1 flash, green 3 flashes). S30/S40 thermostat alert code 440 (shown as E440 on the unit control display).

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

Common causes of Lennox code E440

  • High outdoor temperature
  • Debris on heat sink
  • Loose heat sink screws
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 E440

EL16KP1-018EL16KP1-024EL16KP1-030EL16KP1-036EL16KP1-042EL16KP1-048EL16KP1-060ML14KP1-018ML14KP1-024ML14KP1-030ML14KP1-036ML14KP1-042ML14KP1-048ML14KP1-060

Other Lennox Heat Pump codes

CodeMeaning
E433Inverter compressor over-current (inverter code 29)
E434Inverter communication error to main control (inverter code 53)
E435Inverter EEPROM checksum fault (inverter code 60)
E436Inverter high heat-sink temperature (inverter code 62)
E437Inverter heat-sink temperature sensor fault (inverter code 65)
E438Inverter PFC input over-current (inverter code 73)
E441Inverter compressor slowdown - high compressor current (inverter code 14)
E442Compressor top cap switch strikes lockout
E443Unit code to inverter model mismatch
E444Reversing valve relay or solenoid fault
E446Low suction pressure fault
E600Load shed event

All Lennox Heat Pump error codes →

Lennox code E440: homeowner questions

What does Lennox code E440 mean?

Inverter compressor slowdown - high heat-sink temperature (inverter code 13). Heat sink near its limit; the compressor slows (about 4 Hz, 5-6%) to cool it. Speed reduction starts above 185 F and full speed resumes at 176 F. Normal for 3-4 minutes above 110 F outdoor (dealer information). Inverter LED flash code 13…

Is it safe to keep using my heat pump with code E440?

Usually yes. Code E440 is normally minor, but if it keeps coming back have it checked.

Can I reset Lennox code E440 myself?

You can try one reset (power off for 30 seconds, then on). If Lennox code E440 comes back, the cause is still there and a licensed technician should check it.

Who can fix Lennox code E440 near me?

Aurora Star Tech Inc. repairs Lennox 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: Lennox Residential Communicating Systems Alert Code Guide (V2) 100017 (3/2023), Table 2 Alert Codes and Troubleshooting, p.42. 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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