What Happens If A Flame Sensor Fails

If a flame sensor fails, the furnace or boiler may shut down completely or the burner may continue to operate without proper safety controls. This is because the flame sensor is a critical component of the furnace's safety system, designed to detect the presence of a flame and shut down the furnace if there is no flame present.

If the flame sensor fails to detect a flame, it may prevent the furnace from starting or cause it to shut down prematurely. On the other hand, if the flame sensor fails to detect the absence of a flame, the furnace may continue to operate, which could result in dangerous conditions such as overheating, gas leaks, or carbon monoxide poisoning.

It is essential to address any issues with the flame sensor immediately to ensure that the furnace operates safely and efficiently. If you suspect that your furnace's flame sensor has failed, it is best to contact a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the issue.