Burner Lockout — What to Do? | Montréal Combustion

A lockout on a gas burner indicates that the safety sequence was triggered after an ignition failure or flame loss. In commercial or industrial settings, the priority is to avoid forced restarts that bypass the role of protective devices and can worsen a combustion or seal integrity issue.

Why does the burner lock out?

Possible causes include an unstable flame, a defective electrode or sensor, a combustion air or filter problem, inadequate gas pressure, or a fault on a valve or sequence component. No gas flow adjustment, electrode setting or valve override should be performed by unqualified personnel.

What useful information should you relay before the technician arrives?

Note the lockout time, the fault code displayed, the number of observed attempts, and any recent event (construction, ventilation shutdown, setpoint change). Check that the associated mechanical ventilation is running if your procedure requires it, without modifying critical settings. Do not disassemble the gas train or force manual overrides.

When should you contact Montréal Combustion?

As soon as a lockout repeats, or if a gas smell, abnormal noise or safety concern arises. Our team services burners and boilers across Greater Montréal, the North Shore and the South Shore, with a multi-brand approach and documented return to service. 450-473-0909 for urgent site-specific response.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep pressing reset until it fires?

No. Repeated resets often mask an ignition, ionization or gas fault and increase risk. A qualified technician must identify the cause and validate combustion after the intervention.

Is the flame sensor always the culprit?

Not necessarily. The lockout can originate from multiple safety chains or from a seal, pressure or airflow defect. Proper diagnostics require specialized measurements and tools — outside the scope of amateur adjustment.

Should the gas supply be shut off while waiting for service?

Follow the manufacturer's instructions and your facility's protocol. If you smell gas or internal safety instructions apply, execute the planned shutoff and have authorized personnel respond.