York Error Code R1: Flame Without Call
How to Fix York Code R1
- Step 1: Turn off the furnace immediately at the breaker. This will stop the flow of gas and prevent further issues.
- Step 2: Ensure all occupants evacuate the building and ventilate the area in case of gas accumulation.
- Step 3: Contact a qualified HVAC technician to inspect the furnace and diagnose the problem. Do not attempt to restart the furnace until it has been professionally inspected and repaired.
How to Reset York Code R1
- Turn off the furnace power switch, usually located on or near the unit.
- Turn off the circuit breaker for the furnace. Wait 30 seconds.
- Restore power at the breaker and flip the furnace switch back on.
- Set the thermostat to call for heat. If the error code returns after 2-3 ignition attempts, the fault requires repair.
Resetting clears the code from the display but does not fix the underlying fault. If the code returns after reset, proceed to the diagnostic steps above.
What Does York Error Code R1 Mean?
The 'R1' error code on your York furnace, labeled 'Flame Without Call,' means the furnace control board is sensing a flame present in the burner assembly even when there's no active call for heat. In simpler terms, the furnace thinks it's burning gas when it shouldn't be. This is a dangerous situation because it could lead to uncontrolled gas flow, overheating, or carbon monoxide buildup. It's important to address this issue immediately to prevent potential hazards and further damage to your furnace. This error typically forces the furnace to lock out, preventing it from operating until the problem is resolved.
Common Causes
- Faulty flame sensor: The flame sensor may be detecting a flame when none exists, or it may be sending a false signal to the control board.
- Gas valve malfunction: The gas valve may be leaking gas into the burner even when it's supposed to be closed.
- Sticking gas valve relay: The relay on the control board that controls the gas valve may be stuck in the open position, causing the gas valve to open even without a call for heat.
- Control board failure: The furnace control board itself may be malfunctioning and sending incorrect signals to the gas valve.
- Short circuit in wiring: Damaged or frayed wires in the flame sensor circuit or gas valve circuit can cause false signals.
Diagnostic Steps
| If... | Check | Expected |
|---|---|---|
| Furnace is off, but flame sensor reports a flame | Measure DC microamps at the flame sensor with the gas valve de-energized | 0 uA. Any reading above 0 indicates a false flame signal. |
| Gas valve is closed (no voltage) but gas is flowing to the burners | Inspect gas valve for mechanical failure or debris preventing a tight seal | Gas valve should be fully closed and not leaking gas. |
| Flame sensor is clean and properly positioned | Check the resistance between the flame sensor rod and ground | Open circuit (infinite resistance). A low resistance indicates a short to ground. |
| Gas valve should be closed but is receiving voltage | Check the relay on the control board that controls the gas valve | 0 VDC when there is no call for heat. |
Applicable York Models
Replacement Parts
| Part | OEM Number | Est. Cost | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flame Sensor | 024-27578-000 | — | Find Part |
| Gas Valve | — | — | — |
| Integrated Furnace Control (IFC) Board | — | — | — |
Related Codes on Same Models
Other codes that affect the same York model families as R1.
| Code | Description | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| A4 | Improper Thermostat Wiring | Warning |
| AF | Low Flame Current | Critical |
| R2 | Pressure Switch Stuck Closed | Warning |
| R3 | Pressure Switch Stuck Open | Warning |
| R4 | High Limit Switch Open | Warning |
| R5 | Rollout Switch Open | Critical |
| R6 | Gas Valve Failure | Critical |
| R7 | Ignition Lockout | Critical |
| R9 | Reversed Polarity | Critical |