Rheem R96VA0702317MSA Error Code 14: Flame Present with Gas Valve Off
What Does Code 14 Mean?
A code 14 on the Rheem R96VA0702317MSA is an extremely critical fault indicating the IFC is detecting a flame when the gas valve should be completely closed. This condition should rarely occur in normal operation and represents a potentially dangerous situation. When unexpected flame is sensed, the furnace immediately activates the indoor blower motor at maximum heat speed and the induced draft motor at high speed, and both remain energized until the fault is cleared. The control then enters a one-hour lockout, displaying fault codes 10 and 14 alternately.
The most common cause is field mis-wiring of the 24-volt AC supply to the main gas valve solenoid, which could cause the gas valve to remain energized even when the IFC has not commanded it. A faulty gas valve stuck in the open position is another common cause — this means gas may be flowing and burning even when the control board has not commanded heat. Less commonly, a faulty IFC board may improperly sense a flame signal when none is actually present.
Do not attempt to diagnose or reset this fault yourself. The possibility of gas flowing with no controlled ignition constitutes a fire and carbon monoxide hazard. Turn off the gas supply to the furnace at the manual shutoff valve and contact a qualified HVAC technician immediately to inspect the gas valve, control board wiring, and IFC before restoring gas supply.
Common Causes
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:
- Call a technician immediately — turn off the gas supply to the furnace first as a precaution, then have the technician inspect the gas valve for a stuck-open condition and check all 24VAC wiring to the gas valve solenoid
- The technician must verify the gas valve closes completely when de-energized and inspect the IFC for internal faults before the furnace is returned to service
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026