Rheem R802VA07542117MSA Error Code A116_F: One-hour Lockout: Flame Presence Alarm
What Does Code A116_F Mean?
Fault code A116_F on the Rheem R802VA indicates a one-hour soft lockout triggered by the detection of flame when the IFC has commanded the gas valve closed. The one-hour lockout period begins only after the undesired flame is no longer detected, meaning the furnace waits until the flame extinguishes before starting the lockout timer. During the lockout the furnace will not attempt to heat.
Undesired flame detection when the gas valve should be off is a serious safety condition. The most likely cause is a gas valve stuck in the open position, which allows gas to continue flowing and burning after the valve receives the close command. A welded relay on the IFC board can also keep voltage applied to the gas valve continuously, preventing it from closing.
Although the fault is classified as a soft lockout (the furnace will attempt to restart after one hour), the underlying gas valve or board relay issue represents a potential hazard. If the gas valve cannot be confirmed to close properly, there is risk of uncontrolled combustion or gas accumulation when the furnace is not in a heat call.
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Gas valve stuck open | Most common | ✗ Call a pro → |
| Faulty flame sensing circuit | Common | ✗ Call a pro → |
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:
- Turn off the gas supply at the manual shutoff valve and call a technician immediately — do not wait for the lockout to clear
- A technician must confirm that the gas valve fully closes when commanded off before the furnace is allowed to operate again
- If the gas valve relay on the control board is welded, the board must be replaced before the furnace is operated
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026