My house is 9 years old. About 5 years ago the Lennox gas furnace began to go into lockout. The problem was diagnosed as a dirty flame sensor. Shortly after, the same problem occurred with the Rheem gas water heater which is near, but not next to the furnace. As a result, the flame sensors on both have to be cleaned or replaced at least twice a year.
The first time I contacted Lennox customer service they advised a reconfiguration of the furnace exhaust/air intake. After that didn't help, I sent Lennox 4 of the replaced flame sensor rods to be analyzed; I never heard back.
One service person talked about fumes from cleaning supplies, paint, even carpeting which may be contributing. Another service person said this flame sensor problem is common and I should expect to have it cleaned at least once a year.
My current plan is to replace both items because at least I'd have a functional warranty. But is this saga familiar to anyone? Thank you for your feedback.
Best Answer
Check with your local natural gas utility. That's the company that actually delivers the gas - the same one you call for leaks, but don't call the emergency line for this problem. They may have a pattern of problems, and you would be another point for analysis. Or they may even have a solution.
While different, this reminds me of problems in my area (Maryland) years ago where lots of people got copper b water pipe pinhole leaks. Eventually it was traced to the chemicals in the water and the problem was resolved, though not until after plenty of people (myself included) had to pay to fix their pipes.