Rheem R802VA07542117MSA Error Code A113_F: One-hour Lockout: Ignition Failure
What Does Code A113_F Mean?
Fault code A113_F on the Rheem R802VA indicates a one-hour lockout triggered by repeated ignition failures. The furnace attempted to light four times and failed to detect flame each time. After four unsuccessful ignition trials, the control board locks out the furnace for one hour as a safety measure.
This code is the escalated result of repeated A011_F (Failed Ignition) events within a single heating demand. Each ignition attempt follows the same sequence: the inducer starts, the pressure switch closes, the hot surface igniter heats up, and the gas valve opens. If the flame sensor does not detect a flame within the trial-for-ignition period, the gas valve closes and the system retries.
A dirty flame sensor is the most common cause — it cannot detect the flame even though the burners may actually be lighting. A failed hot surface igniter that cannot reach ignition temperature is the second most common cause. A closed gas supply valve or a defective gas valve are also possible. The furnace will automatically retry after the one-hour lockout expires.
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Dirty or corroded flame sensor | Most common | ✓ DIY fix → |
| Failed hot surface igniter | Common | ✗ Call a pro → |
| Gas supply issue or closed valve | Common | ✓ DIY fix → |
How to Fix It: Clean the Flame Sensor and Check Gas Supply
What You'll Need
Steps
- Turn off power at the breaker or power switch AND shut off the gas supply valve Locate the furnace circuit breaker and flip it to OFF. Turn the gas shutoff valve to the OFF position (perpendicular to the pipe). If you smell gas, leave immediately and call your gas company.
- Verify the gas supply is turned on Before opening the furnace, confirm the manual gas shutoff valve near the furnace is in the ON position (handle parallel to the pipe). Check that other gas appliances in your home are working to verify gas supply is not interrupted.
- Locate and remove the flame sensor Open the furnace access panel. The flame sensor is a thin metal rod near the burners, secured by a single screw. Disconnect the wire and remove the screw to extract the sensor.
- Clean the flame sensor rod Gently rub the metal rod with a Scotch-Brite pad until it is clean and shiny. Do not use steel wool, as it can leave residue. Do not bend the rod or touch the cleaned surface with your fingers.
- Reinstall the flame sensor Reinsert the sensor into its bracket, tighten the mounting screw, and reconnect the wire. Ensure the rod is positioned correctly in the burner flame path.
- Restore power and gas, then wait for lockout to clear Turn the gas supply valve to ON and flip the circuit breaker to ON. Wait for the one-hour lockout to expire, or reset it by cycling the power off for 30 seconds and back on. Set your thermostat to call for heat and watch the ignition sequence.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:
- The A113_F lockout recurs after cleaning the flame sensor
- The hot surface igniter does not glow during the ignition sequence
- Gas supply is confirmed on but the burners do not light
- You smell gas during the ignition attempt but no flame appears
- The igniter glows but there is no gas flow to the burners
Sources
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026