What is a Furnace Flame Sensor?
A furnace flame sensor is a small, metal rod located near the burner of your furnace. It is responsible for detecting whether a flame is present during the furnace’s heating cycle. The flame sensor then sends a signal to the furnace’s control board, which indicates whether or not the furnace is working correctly.
Furnaces use this sensor to ensure the safety and efficiency of your heating system. Without a working flame sensor, your furnace could continue to burn fuel with no flame present, which could lead to the release of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. Additionally, a malfunctioning flame sensor could cause your furnace to shut off or run inefficiently, resulting in higher energy bills.
Over time, furnace flame sensors can become dirty, which can cause them to malfunction. A dirty flame sensor may register a false reading that there is no flame present, which can cause the furnace to shut off unexpectedly. In this article, we’ll discuss how to clean your furnace flame sensor.
Why Cleaning the Flame Sensor is Important?
Efficient heating is important for comfort during winter months, and it is essential to keep your furnace in excellent condition to avoid any issues. The flame sensor is a crucial part of any furnace that ensures safety and efficiency by detecting the flame. If the furnace does not detect a flame, it will shut down automatically to prevent gas leakage and other hazards. However, the flame sensor can become dirty or coated with grime over time, which will cause it to malfunction or fail. This will trigger the furnace to shut off or create unstable flames, affecting its efficiency, and eventually lead to costly repairs. Therefore, it is incredibly important to clean the flame sensor regularly to ensure that your furnace is running correctly.
Without regular cleaning and maintenance, the flame sensor can cause the furnace to malfunction, reduce its efficiency and even impact its lifespan. A dirty flame sensor results in an intermittent flame, which can cause the furnace to shut off or not ignite properly. This causes excess wear and tear on the furnace’s components and makes it work harder, resulting in high energy consumption and costly repairs. Regular cleaning of the flame sensor will ensure that the furnace continues to function correctly, maintains peak efficiency, and prevents costly repairs in the future.
How to Identify a Dirty Flame Sensor?
A dirty flame sensor can cause the furnace to malfunction. Here are some signs that indicate a dirty flame sensor:
- The furnace ignites but then shuts off after a few seconds
- The furnace repeatedly cycles on and off
- The furnace runs but does not produce heat
- The flame sensor appears carbonized or corroded
- The furnace makes strange noises or produces an unusual smell
If your furnace is showing any of these signs, it’s time to clean the flame sensor.
How to Clean a Furnace Flame Sensor?
Cleaning the furnace flame sensor is a simple process that you can do yourself. Here’s how to clean your flame sensor:
- Turn off the furnace completely before attempting to clean the flame sensor. Shut off the power supply and the gas valve.
- Remove the flame sensor from the furnace using a screwdriver to detach the sensor mounting bracket. The flame sensor is a thin metal rod located near the burners.
- Gently clean the flame sensor with a soft-bristled brush, an emery cloth, or sandpaper. Be careful not to damage or scratch the sensor’s surface.
- Reinstall the flame sensor into the furnace, making sure the sensor tip is pointing towards the burner.
- Turn the power and gas supply back on, then start the furnace to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Regular cleaning of the flame sensor can save you from furnace malfunction and costly repairs in the future. It is always best to clean the flame sensor at least once every six months or even more frequently if you suspect it is dirty. If you are not comfortable doing it, seek the help of a professional HVAC technician.
The Bottom Line
The furnace flame sensor is a vital component of your furnace that helps to keep you safe and warm during winter months. Regular cleaning of the flame sensor can improve the furnace’s overall efficiency and reduce the chances of furnace breakdown. Did this guide help you in cleaning your flame sensor? Let us know in the comment section.
Tools You Need for Cleaning
If you plan to clean your furnace flame sensor, you must prepare the right tools ahead of time. Here are the tools you will need:
- Screwdriver: You will need a screwdriver to help you take apart the furnace and access the flame sensor. Choose a screwdriver that matches the size and shape of the screws in your furnace.
- Steel wool: A piece of medium-grade steel wool can help you remove any stubborn debris or buildup on the flame sensor. Make sure to use the steel wool gently so that you don’t damage the sensor.
- Sandpaper: If you don’t have steel wool, you can use a piece of fine-grit sandpaper to clean the flame sensor. Sandpaper is less effective at removing large buildup, but it works well for removing light dust and debris.
- Soft cloth or brush: After you have scrubbed the flame sensor with steel wool or sandpaper, you will need a soft cloth or brush to wipe away any remaining debris. Choose a cloth or brush that won’t scratch or damage the sensor.
- Flashlight: Finally, you will need a flashlight to help you see inside the furnace and inspect the flame sensor. A small flashlight is ideal for working in tight spaces.
Gathering these tools before you begin cleaning can help you work efficiently and avoid any unnecessary trips back and forth to your toolkit.
Steps to Clean the Furnace Flame Sensor
Your furnace is a crucial part of your home’s heating system. It’s responsible for providing a steady flow of warm air during the cold winter months. However, if its flame sensor is covered in dirt or grime, the furnace won’t work efficiently, causing your energy bills to increase. The good news is that you can clean your furnace flame sensor on your own. Here are the steps to get you started:
Step 1: Turn off the Furnace Power
Before starting any maintenance task on your furnace, safety should be your top priority. Always ensure the furnace has no power source. Turn off the furnace power from the electrical panel or switchboard.
Step 2: Remove the Sensor
Locate the flame sensor and remove it from the furnace. The sensor can be found near the pilot light and is attached to a bracket with a single screw.
Step 3: Clean the Sensor
Use either steel wool or sandpaper to clean the sensor. If the grime on the sensor is light, you can use steel wool to wipe it off. For heavier dirt, use sandpaper, but make sure you only use a fine-grit sandpaper. Be gentle when cleaning, as the surface of the sensor is fragile and can be easily scratched.
Step 4: Clean the Sensor Rod
After you’ve cleaned the sensor, you should also clean the sensor rod. Use the steel wool or sandpaper to remove any grime accumulation on the rod.
Step 5: Put the Sensor Back in Place
When you’re satisfied that the sensor and sensor rod are clean, reattach the sensor to its place in the furnace. Make sure you put the flame sensor back in the same position it was in before you removed it.
Step 6: Turn on the Furnace Power
Now turn the furnace power back on from the electrical panel or switchboard. Wait for the furnace to start and observe the performance of the flame. If there is a steady flame, the furnace is good to go. However, if the flame is still flickering, or the furnace doesn’t start up, it may be time to call for professional help.
In conclusion, it’s necessary to keep your furnace flame sensor clean to ensure a consistent supply of warm air to your home. Cleaning the sensor is a simple task that you can complete by yourself. Remember that cleaning the sensor regularly can help prevent costly breakdowns and repairs in the future.
When to Call a Professional?
If you are not familiar with how to clean a furnace flame sensor or have any doubts about the operation of your furnace, it is always best to contact a professional HVAC technician. Attempting DIY fixes on your furnace can be dangerous and may cause costly damages. Remember that your furnace is an important appliance that generates heat and runs on electricity and gas, which can be hazardous if not handled properly.
A technician has the knowledge, experience, and equipment to safely and effectively perform maintenance on your furnace. They can also diagnose any underlying issues that may be causing problems in your furnace’s operation. Professional HVAC companies have proper licensing, insurance, and certifications to work on residential heating systems.
It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the reliability and safety of your furnace. Trying to fix your furnace without proper training or experience can result in costly damages to your system or potentially harm you and your family. HVAC technicians have the necessary skills and knowledge to take care of your furnace, giving you peace of mind knowing that it is working efficiently and safely.
Finally, it is important to note that regular furnace maintenance performed by a professional technician can prolong the life of your furnace, saving you money and ensuring your furnace will work well during the winter months when you need it most.
