Last Updated on May 2, 2024 by Francis
If you’ve recently noticed an orange flame on your gas furnace, you may be feeling a little worried. Don’t panic – this problem can often be easily resolved with a few simple steps. In this article, we’ll provide you with a practical guide to understanding what causes an orange flame on a gas furnace, and how to fix it.
How to Fix Orange Flame on Gas Furnace?
If you notice an orange flame on your gas furnace, it could be due to a variety of potential issues. To repair it, you will need to:
- Turn off the furnace and wait for it to cool down.
- Check the gas line for kinks, obstructions, and leaks.
- Inspect the burner orifice for blockage.
- Clean the flame sensor with a wire brush.
- Check the flame rollout switch.
- Replace the thermocouple or gas valve as needed.
If you are unable to fix the orange flame yourself, contact your local HVAC technician for assistance.
Why Does My Gas Furnace Have an Orange Flame?
A gas furnace with an orange flame is usually caused by a carbon monoxide leak. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled. The orange color is caused by the presence of soot, which builds up in the furnace’s combustion chamber when it is not burning efficiently. If your furnace is emitting an orange flame, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible.
Furnaces are designed to burn fuel efficiently and cleanly, but if there are any blockages or leaks in the system, it can cause the fuel to burn inefficiently and produce soot. This soot can then coat the interior of the combustion chamber, which can cause the flame to appear orange. Other common causes of an orange flame include improper air flow, a malfunctioning thermocouple, or a clogged air filter.
How to Fix an Orange Flame on a Gas Furnace
If your gas furnace is emitting an orange flame, there are a few steps you can take to try and fix the issue. First, check the air filter to make sure it is clean and free of any debris. If the filter is clogged, replace it with a new one. Next, make sure the blower motor is running correctly and is not blocked or restricted in any way.
If the air flow is not the issue, then you may need to check the thermocouple. The thermocouple is a device that monitors the temperature of the flame and shuts off the gas supply if the flame goes out. If the thermocouple is not functioning properly, it can cause the flame to appear orange. If this is the case, you should replace the thermocouple with a new one.
Inspect the Burners
The next step is to inspect the burners to make sure they are clean and free of any debris. If the burners are clogged, they will not be able to burn the fuel efficiently, which can cause the orange flame. To clean the burners, you can use a vacuum cleaner and a brush to remove any debris.
If the burners are not the issue, then you may need to inspect the combustion chamber. The combustion chamber is where the fuel is burned and can become coated with soot if it is not burning efficiently. To inspect the combustion chamber, you will need to remove the access panel and use a flashlight to look for any signs of soot or buildup.
Cleaning the Combustion Chamber
If you find soot or buildup in the combustion chamber, then you will need to clean it. The best way to do this is to use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a face mask, when cleaning the combustion chamber as the soot can be harmful if inhaled.
Once you have finished cleaning the combustion chamber, you should reinstall the access panel and check the flame again. If the flame is still orange, then you may need to have a professional inspect and repair the furnace.
Conclusion
If your gas furnace is emitting an orange flame, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible. There are a few steps you can take to try and fix the issue, such as checking the air filter, inspecting the burners, and cleaning the combustion chamber. If the orange flame persists, then you should contact a professional to inspect and repair the furnace.
Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions
What Is an Orange Flame on a Gas Furnace?
An orange flame on a gas furnace is a sign that the furnace is not burning the fuel properly. This could occur due to improper air-to-gas ratio, an obstruction in the vent system, a malfunctioning blower motor, or a faulty thermocouple. It can also indicate a carbon monoxide leak.
What Are the Dangers of an Orange Flame?
An orange flame can be dangerous because it is not able to produce enough heat to properly heat your home. Additionally, an orange flame on a gas furnace can produce carbon monoxide, which is a poisonous gas that can cause serious health problems.
What Should I Do if I See an Orange Flame?
If you see an orange flame on your furnace, it is important to turn off the furnace and contact a qualified technician. A technician will be able to inspect the furnace and diagnose the problem.
How Can I Prevent an Orange Flame?
The best way to prevent an orange flame is to have your furnace professionally inspected and serviced every year. This will help to ensure that the furnace is working properly and can reduce the risk of an orange flame. Additionally, make sure that the vent system is not obstructed, and that the thermostat is working correctly.
What Are Some Common Causes of an Orange Flame?
The most common causes of an orange flame are an improper air-to-gas ratio, an obstruction in the vent system, a malfunctioning blower motor, or a faulty thermocouple. In some cases, an orange flame can also indicate a carbon monoxide leak.
How Can I Fix an Orange Flame?
In order to fix an orange flame, you should hire a qualified technician to inspect and service the furnace. The technician will be able to diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs. This may include replacing the thermocouple, cleaning the vent system, or replacing the blower motor.
Furnace burner colors yellow or orange means its time for service.
The orange flame on the gas furnace is a sign of improper combustion and can be a hazardous situation. However, it can be fixed easily with a few simple steps. First, check the gas pressure and make sure that it is properly set. If it is not, contact a professional technician to adjust it. Secondly, check the air shutter and make sure that it is open. If it is not, open it manually. Finally, inspect the flame sensor and clean or replace it if necessary. Following these steps will help you to fix the orange flame on the gas furnace and ensure that it is working safely and properly.
