Lennox EL296UHV Error Code E 241: Flame Sensed Out of Sequence
What Does Code E 241 Mean?
Error code E241 on the Lennox EL296UHV indicates that the flame sensor is detecting flame out of the normal ignition sequence. The control board has sensed flame current at a time when no gas should be flowing and no flame should exist — this is a serious safety alert.
The most concerning cause is a gas valve that is leaking gas past its seat when it should be closed. If gas is leaking and igniting from residual heat in the combustion chamber, the flame sensor will pick up the unexpected flame signal. The control board responds by flagging E241 and shutting down the system.
Other possible causes include a faulty flame sensor that is generating a false signal, or electrical interference on the flame sense circuit that the board misinterprets as a flame. However, because a leaking gas valve is a genuine safety hazard, this code must be treated as a potential gas leak until proven otherwise. If you smell gas, leave the house immediately and call your gas utility. The alert clears when the fault condition is resolved.
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Leaking gas valve | Most common | ✗ Call a pro → |
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:
- Immediately — E241 indicates a potential gas valve leak
- You smell gas near the furnace at any time
- The furnace burners appear to stay lit after the heating cycle ends
- You see flame through the sight glass when the furnace should be off
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026