A. O. Smith Burkay 7 — Flame Sense Leakage to Ground
7
Flame sense leakage to ground. Next system action: Control remains in wait mode. When the fault corrects, control resumes normal operation after a one minute delay. Recommended service action: Check flame sense lead wire for damage or shorting. Check that flame sensor is in proper position. Check flame sensor ceramic for cracks, damage or tracking. The table classifies it as Green LED status code (lockout models B, H, D and J).
Applies to
This sensor fault code is displayed by the Honeywell intermittent ignition control (yellow flame LED and green status LED) on Burkay HW models (HW-300, HW-399, HW-420, HW-520 and HW-670), as documented in A. O. Smith Burkay Gas Fired Commercial Copper Boilers User Manual, Models HW 300, 399, 420, 520, 670, doc 100077928, Tables 4-6 (100077928). Codes can differ between controller generations, so always check the manual that matches your unit.
- A. O. Smith Conservationist Burkay (hot-water boilers)
- A. O. Smith Burkay HW-300
- A. O. Smith Burkay HW-399
- A. O. Smith Burkay HW-420
- A. O. Smith Burkay HW-520
- A. O. Smith Burkay HW-670
Controller: Honeywell intermittent ignition control (yellow flame LED and green status LED). Source manual: 100077928.
Why a code is not a diagnosis
A sensor code usually means the sensor, its wiring or its mounting is faulty; the physical condition the sensor measures (temperature, pressure, flow) may be perfectly normal.
Safe things to observe
- Note the code; there is no homeowner-accessible check for sensor circuits.
- If the appliance still runs, watch whether the code returns and report it when you call.
Do not
- Do not open the appliance to test or replace sensors yourself.
How professional service helps
- A technician measures the sensor and harness against the manual's values and replaces the faulty component.
- Combustion and safety devices are verified with an analyser and the manufacturer's procedure after any repair.
Where ROMA provides on-site service
On-site service is currently offered in Greater Vancouver, BC, including Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, New Westminster, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Delta, Langley, Maple Ridge, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, White Rock, Pitt Meadows, Tsawwassen, Anmore, Lions Bay, Belcarra, Bowen Island, Mission. Everything else on this site is reference information you can use anywhere in Canada.
Parts and service
Parts commonly involved
These parts appear in the documented text for this alert. A code reports a condition, not a failed part — a technician confirms the cause by testing before anything is replaced.
Flame sensor (flame rod)
The flame sensor is the small rod that proves a gas boiler's burner is actually lit before the control will keep the gas valve open.
What a technician checks →
Service for this alert
- Gas Boiler Repair
Licensed gas technicians from ROMA Heating & Cooling diagnose and repair residential and light-commercial gas boilers across…
- Emergency Boiler Repair
Priority gas boiler repair for homes and buildings in Greater Vancouver with no heat, no hot water, a locked-out boiler or a leak.
Every boiler part explained — what it does, how it fails and what a technician checks.
Documented for A. O. Smith Conservationist Burkay (hot-water boilers).
Frequently asked questions
Can I clear this code myself?
Clearing a code without fixing its cause usually just brings it back. Note the code, check the safe items on this page, then call a licensed technician. If your appliance manual describes a user reset for this exact code and it stays away, no call may be needed.
Boiler locked out? Call with the alert text ready.
The brand, model and this alert are passed along when you request service online, so the technician arrives prepared.
On-site service in Greater Vancouver, BC. ROMA lists “Open 7 days” on its site; call to confirm same-day availability.
Sources and verification
- A. O. Smith Burkay Gas Fired Commercial Copper Boilers User Manual, Models HW 300, 399, 420, 520, 670, doc 100077928, Tables 4-6 · 100077928 · accessed September 9, 2026
Facts checked September 9, 2026. Last updated September 9, 2026. Technical reviewer: not yet assigned.