Having your furnace go out during the middle of winter is never fun and sweaters can only help so much! If you’ve ever experienced issues with your furnace, you might have encountered a common problem: the flame sensor. This small but crucial component can sometimes get dirty or coated with residue, leading to furnace malfunctions or failures to ignite. Fortunately, cleaning the flame sensor is a straightforward task that you can handle yourself with minimal tools and effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your furnace back in top shape if you choose to do so. If you’d rather have the pros handle this, we clean the flame sensor every year included with our annual maintenance!
What is a Flame Sensor?
Before we dive into the cleaning process, let’s briefly understand what a flame sensor does. The flame sensor is a safety device that detects whether a flame is present in the furnace burner. If the sensor doesn’t detect a flame, it sends a signal to the furnace control board to shut off the gas supply, preventing unsafe conditions. Over time, the sensor can become coated with a layer of soot or other residues, which can hinder its performance and therefore, hinder the ability for your furnace to heat the home properly.
Why Clean the Flame Sensor?
Regular maintenance of the flame sensor is essential for several reasons:
- Reliability: A clean sensor ensures your furnace operates reliably and efficiently.
- Safety: Proper function of the flame sensor is crucial for preventing gas leaks and potential fire hazards.
- Efficiency: A clean sensor can help your furnace run more efficiently, which can save on energy bills.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Screwdriver (usually a flathead or Phillips)
- Steel wool or fine-grit sandpaper
- Cleaning cloth
- Vacuum cleaner (optional, for dust removal)
- Safety gloves and goggles (optional, for protection)
Step-by-Step Flame Sensor Cleaning Process
- Turn Off the Power
Safety first! Before doing any maintenance work on your furnace, turn off the power to the unit. You can do this by switching off the furnace at the circuit breaker, switching off the power switch or by unplugging the unit if applicable. This will prevent any accidental electric shocks or damage to the furnace components.
- Locate the Flame Sensor
The flame sensor is typically located near the burner assembly. Consult your furnace’s manual to pinpoint its exact location. It usually looks like a thin metal rod with a ceramic base. In most furnaces, you’ll need to remove the furnace access panel to reach it.
- Remove the Flame Sensor
Once you’ve located the flame sensor, use a screwdriver to carefully remove any screws or brackets holding it in place. Gently pull the sensor out of its mounting position. Be cautious not to damage any surrounding components.
- Clean the Sensor
Using steel wool or fine-grit sandpaper, gently scrub the metal rod of the flame sensor to remove any soot or residue. Be careful not to apply too much pressure or scratch the sensor, as this could damage it. If the sensor is heavily soiled, you might need to repeat the cleaning process until it’s visibly clean.
- Wipe Down the Sensor
After scrubbing, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the sensor. This will help remove any remaining debris and ensure the sensor is fully clean.
- Reinstall the Flame Sensor
Once the sensor is clean and dry, carefully reinsert it into its mounting position. Secure it with the screws or brackets you previously removed. Make sure it’s properly aligned and firmly in place.
- Reassemble the Furnace
Replace the furnace access panel and any other components you removed during the process. Double-check that everything is properly reassembled.
- Turn the Power Back On
Restore power to the furnace by turning the circuit breaker back on or plugging the unit back in. Turn on the furnace and check for proper operation. The furnace should ignite and operate normally if the sensor was the cause of the issue. If it’s still not operating properly, you should call for furnace repair.
How Often does it need cleaned?
Most experts recommend cleaning the flame sensor once a year. Quality Comfort includes flame sensor cleaning in our annual furnace maintenance. We also have maintenance plans so you can set and forget your home’s HVAC and plumbing upkeep needs.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to keep your furnace flame sensor in top condition, helping your furnace run safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance not only prolongs the life of your furnace but also ensures a warm and comfortable home during the colder months.
What are some signs my flame sensor might be dirty?
If your furnace flame sensor is dirty, you might notice a few signs indicating it’s not functioning properly. Here are some common indications:
- Intermittent or No Heat: The furnace may turn on but then shut off shortly after because the sensor isn’t detecting the flame properly. This can lead to inconsistent heating or no heat at all.
- Frequent Short Cycling: The furnace might turn on and off frequently. This happens because the flame sensor is not consistently detecting the flame, causing the system to shut down as a safety measure.
- Error Codes: Modern furnaces have diagnostic systems that might display error codes related to flame detection. Check your furnace’s manual for specific codes related to the flame sensor.
- Yellow or Yellow-Tipped Flame: A clean flame sensor typically allows the furnace to burn with a blue flame. If you notice a yellow or orange flame, it might indicate a problem with the flame sensor or other issues affecting combustion.
- Accumulation of Soot or Debris: If you can inspect the flame sensor yourself, look for any visible signs of soot or debris. A dirty sensor will often appear covered in black soot.
If you suspect the flame sensor is dirty or malfunctioning, cleaning it might help restore proper function. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing maintenance yourself, it’s a good idea to call a professional HVAC technician for a thorough inspection and service.
Flame sensor cleaning Cincinnati
If you are near Cincinnati, OH and suspect you need furnace maintenance or a flame sensor cleaning reach out to us here at Quality Comfort! Call 513-620-4822 or book online 24/7.
