F2
Ideal
Flame Detection Failure
Ideal furnace attempts to start but shuts down quickly, fan may run, no sustained flame
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Dirty or misaligned flame sensor, faulty flame rectification circuit on control board, poor burner grounding, low gas pressure at Ideal burner manifold
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Isolate electrical power and gas before touching internal components. Only restore power when covers are back in place.
Steps:
- Observe the sequence: Call for heat and watch through the sight glass. If the burner lights for 1–3 seconds then goes out and the furnace locks out with F2, the flame sensor is the prime suspect.
- Clean the flame sensor: Turn off power and gas. Remove the burner access panel. Locate the flame sensor (thin metal rod in front of the burner, connected by a single wire). Remove the mounting screw and gently clean the rod with fine emery cloth or a non-abrasive scouring pad until shiny. Do not use water or chemicals.
- Reinstall and test: Refit the sensor, ensure the wire connection is tight, restore power and gas, and call for heat again.
- Check grounding: Ensure the burner assembly and control board earth connections are tight and free of rust or paint.
- If problem persists: The flame sensor or the Ideal control board flame circuit may be defective and should be tested and replaced by a qualified technician.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
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