Flame sensor

[Bob45]

Having a hard time getting my electronic ignition gas fireplace to work. It is a Superior which was taken over by Lennox. It is about 10 years old.

It gets a great spark, ignites and shuts down. I replaced the flame sensor, the box, cleaned all connections and grounds. The problem is there is not a flame sensor made for this. It is a fabricated sensor from the factory. It looks like 2 sensors cut up and welded together.

I bought 2 new sensors cut them and had them welded like the original. It still isn't sensing the flame and the gas valve closes. I can even hear it still sparking after it's lit. Are the sensors made of different metals with different electrical resistance? Seems like if it sparks good it should send the signal back to the box. The flame sensor and ignitor are the same part on this unit.

Need some ideas.

[logdoc_rob]

Bad news, it you cannot locate a factory replacement sensor, you shouldn't "weld" one up. When you alter the fireplace in any way, you then become the manufacturer and assume any and all liabilities present and future. If you sell your home and the fireplace kills or injures the new owner, guess who goes to prison?

Call a professional.

[Bob45]

Originally Posted by logdoc_rob

Bad news, it you cannot locate a factory replacement sensor, you shouldn't "weld" one up. When you alter the fireplace in any way, you then become the manufacturer and assume any and all liabilities present and future. If you sell your home and the fireplace kills or injures the new owner, guess who goes to prison?

Call a professional.

The original was welded up and very poorly. Why would it blow up if it won't stay lit for more than 5 seconds and the gas valve closes? Thanks for the thought though. I am still trying to find one.

[Bob45]

If anyone knows of a good place for parts online let me know. It is a Superior. It is gas, electronic ignition, direct vent.

Model - xDVR5-CENS
Serial # - 000134

[logdoc_rob]

Sometimes gas can build up in the firebox from unsuccessful attempts at lighting and can cause the glass to explode. If the new and "improved" sensor senses flame when there is no flame and gas is flowing, explosions can occur.

I don't mean to come across harsh, but I have been in this business for 10 years and it scares the Hell out of me when homeowners try to repair gas fireplaces themselves. I've seen some very scary things. There are a few homeowners that can solve some of their problems, but if they get it wrong, the results can be VERY dangerous.

[Bob45]

Originally Posted by logdoc_rob

Sometimes gas can build up in the firebox from unsuccessful attempts at lighting and can cause the glass to explode. If the new and "improved" sensor senses flame when there is no flame and gas is flowing, explosions can occur.

I don't mean to come across harsh, but I have been in this business for 10 years and it scares the Hell out of me when homeowners try to repair gas fireplaces themselves. I've seen some very scary things. There are a few homeowners that can solve some of their problems, but if they get it wrong, the results can be VERY dangerous.

I do appreciate your replies. I am taking your advice and still looking for an original flame sensor. It does light instantly. No gas buildup. I am always careful about that kind of thing. I have worked with gas fired things for years too. Just not professionally.