HVAC●FAULTS
RHEEM DIAGNOSTIC REFERENCE RHEEM 801S DOWNFLOW SINGLE-STAGE CONTROL (MANUAL 92-24161-143-14) DOC RHEEM-C

Rheem R801SA furnace code C: Compressor running

C YOUR LIGHT: SINGLE-CHARACTER DISPLAY: C — MATCH IT ABOVE

Info — not a fault

What does C mean on a Rheem R801SA (801S downflow) furnace display? C means the compressor is running for cooling or heat-pump heating. It is a normal operating display on this control, not a fault.

Safe checks before calling

If you expected gas heat, check whether the thermostat is set for cooling or heat-pump operation.

Questions about this code

What does C mean on a Rheem R801SA (801S downflow) furnace display?

C means the compressor is running for cooling or heat-pump heating. It is a normal operating display on this control, not a fault.

Does Rheem R801SA furnace code C mean I need a repair?

C needs no repair. If the house is not reaching temperature while C shows, a technician should look at the cooling or heat-pump equipment and thermostat setup rather than the furnace burner.

How much does it cost to fix Rheem R801SA furnace code C?

C is a normal display and implies no repair bill. Any cost would come from separately diagnosing the cooling or heat-pump system if it underperforms.

Applies to

R801SA / 801S downflow single-stage 80% furnace with PSC motor

Different Rheem generations use different code maps. If your series isn't listed, don't assume this meaning — check your blower-door label.

Verified against Rheem 801S Series Installation Instructions — OEM143-14 mirror, p.34

Last verified 2026-10-07 · page updated 2026-10-07 · how we verify

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