A furnace flame sensor is a small yet important component used in gas-fired furnaces as a safety feature. In today’s post, Bartlett Heating & Air Conditioning outlines how a furnace flame sensor works and what makes it important.
How a Flame Sensor Works
A flame sensor is designed to detect the presence of a flame when a furnace is turned on. This feature is important because if the flames go out while the gas is still turned on, the gas could spread through the house and possibly cause an explosion.
The flame sensor sends a small electrical signal to a central controller, which operates the valves that release gas or fuel into the burning chamber. It’s equipped with a timer that, upon initial activation, counts down as ignition is initiated. During this time, the “no-flame” reading is ignored until a flame is detected by its metal rod, which is positioned across the burner. If it doesn’t detect a flame after the timer has elapsed, the controller turns off the gas. Otherwise, the flame sensor will continuously signal the controller to keep releasing gas until the flame, for any reason, goes out.
Heat Sensor Maintenance
Like most other parts of an HVAC system, furnace flame sensors require regular maintenance. A failing flame sensor can increase the aforementioned risk of gas spreading throughout the house. Fortunately, the signs of a failing heat sensor are easy to recognize. A furnace that shuts off a few seconds after being turned on is the most common one. Another is cracks on the porcelain sleeve that separates the furnace sensor’s metal rod from the wire. Soot and/or corrosion on the metal rod can also result in faulty readings.
Keeping up with your annual heating maintenance appointments can help ensure that the heat sensor, along with the rest of your furnace, remains in optimal condition.
Call Bartlett Heating & Air Conditioning for Your Heating and Cooling Needs
Searching online for “heating and cooling companies near me”? Call Bartlett Heating & Air Conditioning at (630) 523-8374. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Bartlett, IL, and the surrounding communities.
