Raypak FLAME
False flame detected on the XTherm/MVB controller display.
Source: hvac/raypak/47951c62__h-1005a__ryp-xtherm-1005a-2005a-iom.pdf
What does Raypak FLAME mean?
Per the Error Display table, FLAME means false flame detected; the manual instructs to shut off the gas supply and recycle power. The control sensed a flame signal when none should be present, which is a safety condition because it can indicate the gas valve is not fully closing or the flame-sensing circuit is reading incorrectly. The PIM logs this as a false flame error.
Symptoms
- FLAME shown as the active error on the display
- Flame signal detected when the burner should be off
- Red fault LED (2 flashes indicates false flame error on the PIM)
- Heater does not operate normally
Common causes
- Gas valve not closing fully
- Dirty burner or electrodes
- Faulty flame-sensing circuit
- Moisture or contamination on sensing components
Diagnostic steps
- 01
Shut off the gas supply
Per the Error Display instruction, shut off the gas supply when a false flame is detected before further work.
- 02
Recycle power
Cycle power to the control as directed to clear the transient condition and re-evaluate.
- 03
Check for proper gas valve closure
Per the PIM false-flame guidance, verify the gas valve closes completely so no gas leaks past when the burner is off.
- 04
Clean burner and electrodes
Clean the burner and the electrodes per the manual to remove contamination affecting flame sensing.
- 05
Restore and observe
Return gas and power, then confirm the burner cycles normally without the false flame error returning.
Keep this fix — get it by email with every Raypak error code
A clean printable version of this Raypak FLAME guide + the full Raypak code pack (15 codes), straight to your inbox. Free.
When to call a professional
A false flame is a flame-safeguard condition involving the gas valve and sensing circuit, where a valve that fails to close is a genuine gas-safety hazard. The manual requires gas off and electrical power disconnected before servicing these components. If the error persists after cleaning, or you cannot safely verify gas valve closure, have a qualified Raypak service technician diagnose the gas valve and flame circuit.
Don't want to DIY this? Open a service ticket on AskWhiz and get it handled — pay per ticket, no subscription.
Open a ticket — free accountOther Raypak error codes
Outlet water sensor fault on the XTherm/MVB controller display.
LIMIT SENHigh limit sensor fault on the XTherm/MVB controller display.
INLET SENInlet water sensor fault on the XTherm/MVB controller display.
GAS PRESSGas pressure / PIM wiring related error on the XTherm/MVB controller display.
IGNITIONIgnition fault on the XTherm/MVB controller; clear with RESET.
LIMIT TRIPHeater temperature tripped the high limit on the XTherm/MVB controller.
ID CARDIdentity card fault on the XTherm/MVB controller; check ID card and wiring.
IGN CTRLInternal control fault on the XTherm/MVB controller; reset power, replace control.
DELTA TTemperature difference between inlet and outlet exceeded the setpoint.
LOW 24VACLow 24 VAC power; check power supply wiring and transformer.
BLOW SPEEDBlower speed out of range; check blower wiring and blower.
FLOW ERRORUnit not detecting enough flow to allow the ignition sequence.
AskWhiz Playground
Test your diagnostic skills
Play a real HVAC service call in the AskWhiz Playground — real brands, real fault codes, no signup.
Play a real service call