Furnace will not start; control board shows E1 fault code

Safety first: Turn off power to the furnace at the service switch and shut off the gas supply before working inside the unit. Allow the furnace to cool.

• 1. Reset power: Turn the furnace power off for 5 minutes, then restore power and call for heat at the thermostat. Observe the ignition sequence through the burner view port.
• 2. Inspect hot surface ignitor: Remove the burner access panel. Locate the hot surface ignitor on the burner assembly. Check for cracks, white spots, or breaks in the element. If damaged, replace the ignitor with a Frigidaire-compatible hot surface ignitor rated for your model.
• 3. Clean flame sensor: Locate the flame sensor rod near the burner. Remove the mounting screw, pull out the sensor, and gently clean the metal rod with fine steel wool or a Scotch-Brite pad. Do not sand the porcelain. Reinstall and ensure the wire connection is tight.
• 4. Check gas supply: Confirm the manual gas shutoff valve near the furnace is fully open. If other gas appliances are weak or not working, contact your gas utility to check supply and pressure.
• 5. Observe ignition: With panels reinstalled and safety switches engaged, restore power and call for heat. If the ignitor glows but burners never light, suspect the gas valve or low gas pressure. If the ignitor never glows, suspect the ignitor or control board.
• 6. When to call a professional: If you smell gas, if the gas valve needs testing, or if the furnace repeatedly locks out after cleaning the flame sensor, contact a qualified HVAC technician. Gas pressure and combustion must be checked with proper instruments.