A furnace flame sensor is designed to confirm that the gas valve is only open when there is a fire, preventing the buildup of harmful gasses. However, these sensors can sometimes go faulty due to soot and debris accumulation and other factors. So, if you observe that there is something wrong with your furnace, you might want to check for these signs to determine if you need furnace repair along with flame sensor replacement.

Yellow Burner Flames

The first thing you can do to check if the furnace flame sensor is faulty is to peep through the gas furnace and inspect the color of the flame in the burner. If the color tends to be yellow, it means the gas is not burning the right way. This is most probably due to carbon monoxide not venting out of the system effectively. You will need to consult a professional in this matter. And in the meantime, you should make sure carbon monoxide does not accumulate inside.

Keep in mind that carbon monoxide is both odorless and colorless. This combination makes it very threatening and dangerous for the people living in a house. So, if the gas is not venting out properly, you should open the windows for a while.

Rusted Flue Lines

Another sign of a furnace flame sensor going bad is rusted flue lines. The flue system ensures that carbon monoxide is led outside of your home. If you observe that your flue lines have rust and corrosion, it means there is a leak somewhere.

As a result, carbon monoxide will not be able to exit properly. At the same time, it could also be that the flame sensor is shutting down your furnace operation. Then again, you will need an expert’s help on this matter.

High Utility Bills

If you observe that your heating bills have suddenly increased even with the furnace being used at regular temperature, you will need to check the air filters.

Clean or replace the air filters if needed. However, if that is not the issue, you should get the flame sensor checked, which might be making it difficult for your furnace to operate at its maximum.

Water Leaks

Sometimes, homeowners come to find puddles of water underneath their furnaces. If that is the case with you as well, you will need to immediately find out what the issue is. This is something that cannot be ignored. If the puddles are appearing only when the air conditioner is ON, it means there is a problem somewhere within the water condensate lines.

Solving the water puddle issue while the air conditioning is ON is usually a simple issue to fix. However, if the issue prevails when the heating is ON, it means the problem is much more complicated.

Old Age

Finally, it comes down to old age. Furnaces usually last somewhere between 10-20 years on average depending on their maintenance. Once it starts to develop problems, you might want to replace the furnace with a new one. If there comes a point where you are paying for regular repairs and replacements, it is better to opt for a new furnace.

Another major reason behind opting for a new furnace is that furnace models come and go. As a result, after a few years, you might struggle to find the perfect replacement parts. So, with a new furnace installed, you won’t have to worry about regular repairs and replacements for a few more years to come.

How To Find The Flame Sensor In A Furnace?

Locating the flame sensor in a furnace does not require a professional. In fact, you can do it on your own. Simply consult the user’s manual or check under the furnace for the access cover.

Once you remove that, look for a metal rod with white or discolored porcelain around its bent mounting end. This should be your flame sensor.

Final Word

In the end, flame sensors going wrong is a common scenario among furnaces. You can try determining the issue but fixing it should be left to the professional. Make sure that you opt for furnace repair services McLean and maintain the furnace in the meantime to keep it running as smoothly as possible.