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Error code reference

Atwood Refrigerator Error Code CHECK FLASH + GAS ON

GAS mode selected and burner failed to ignite within the allowed 40-45 second trial ignition cycle; 240ms…

Atwood codesAtwood refrigerator codes

GAS mode selected and burner failed to ignite within the allowed 40-45 second trial ignition cycle; 240ms beeper sounds.

First step from the service manual

Turn refrigerator off and back on to reset and initiate a new 40 second trial ignition cycle; may require 2-3 attempts if air is in gas lines after tank change.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What CHECK FLASH + GAS ON means on a Atwood refrigerator

The CHECK FLASH + GAS ON error on an Atwood refrigerator indicates that the unit attempted to ignite the gas burner while operating in GAS mode but failed to establish a flame within the 40 to 45 second trial ignition period. When this fault is triggered, a 240ms beeper sounds to alert the user. The refrigerator's control board monitors the ignition sequence and expects confirmation of a stable flame within that window. If the burner does not light successfully, the board terminates the ignition attempt and displays this error code to prevent unburned gas from accumulating.

The gas burner ignition system relies on several components working in coordination: the gas valve opening on command, the igniter generating a spark, and the flame sensor confirming combustion. A failure at any point in this chain will cause the trial cycle to time out. Common hardware-related causes include a clogged or misaligned burner orifice, a weak or failed igniter, a faulty gas valve that is not opening fully, or a flame sensor that cannot detect the burner flame even when ignition does occur.

In many cases, especially after a propane tank swap or extended storage, air trapped in the gas supply line is the most likely culprit rather than a component failure. Air pockets prevent fuel from reaching the burner during the 40 to 45 second window. Running two to three ignition reset cycles allows the system to purge this air and draw propane to the burner. If the error persists after multiple reset attempts with a known good fuel supply, further component-level diagnosis is warranted.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of CHECK FLASH + GAS ON

  1. 01

    Air in the gas supply line

    Wiring / connection

    After a propane tank change or after the tank runs empty, air can be trapped in the gas line and prevent fuel from reaching the burner during the ignition trial period. Performing two to three power-cycle resets usually purges the air and allows the burner to ignite.

  2. 02

    Empty or low propane tank

    Wiring / connection

    If the propane supply is depleted or the tank valve is closed, the burner will receive no fuel and the ignition trial will time out every attempt. Verify the tank is open, adequately filled, and the regulator is functioning before diagnosing further.

  3. 03

    Clogged or dirty burner orifice

    Wiring / connection

    Debris, insect nesting material, or corrosion can partially or fully block the burner orifice, restricting gas flow below what is needed for ignition. Inspect and clean the orifice and burner tube as part of routine diagnosis.

  4. 04

    Faulty or weak igniter

    Part replacement

    The igniter must produce a consistent spark throughout the trial cycle to light the burner. A cracked igniter tip, carbon fouling, or improper igniter gap can result in a weak or absent spark, causing the cycle to time out without ignition.

  5. 05

    Failed gas valve

    Part replacement

    If the gas valve solenoid is not opening correctly, fuel cannot flow to the burner regardless of igniter condition. A failed valve will require replacement and is typically confirmed after ruling out supply and igniter issues.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about CHECK FLASH + GAS ON

What does CHECK FLASH + GAS ON mean on a Atwood refrigerator?
This error means the refrigerator was set to GAS mode and attempted to light the propane burner, but the burner did not ignite within the 40 to 45 second trial ignition window allowed by the control board. When the trial period expires without a confirmed flame, the board shuts down the ignition attempt and sounds a 240ms beep to notify the user. It does not necessarily indicate a broken component, as an empty tank or air in the line can cause the same result.
Will resetting the refrigerator clear the CHECK FLASH + GAS ON error?
Turning the refrigerator off and back on initiates a fresh 40 second ignition trial cycle and is the recommended first step. If air is in the gas line after a tank change, it may take two to three reset attempts before the burner lights successfully. If the error returns consistently after multiple resets with a full propane supply, a component-level problem is likely the cause.
How do I fix the CHECK FLASH + GAS ON error on my Atwood refrigerator?
Start by confirming the propane tank is full and the valve is fully open, then cycle the refrigerator off and on two to three times to purge any air from the gas line. If the burner still will not ignite, inspect the burner orifice for blockages and check the igniter for fouling or damage. Persistent failures after these steps may point to a faulty gas valve or igniter that requires replacement.
Is the CHECK FLASH + GAS ON error on an Atwood refrigerator a safety concern?
The error code is part of the refrigerator's built-in safety system. When the burner fails to ignite within the trial period, the control board stops the ignition sequence to prevent unburned gas from continuing to flow. This means the unit is designed to shut down safely rather than allow a hazardous accumulation of gas. If you smell propane near the unit, turn off the gas supply and ventilate the area before attempting any further diagnostics.
How much does it cost to repair an Atwood refrigerator showing CHECK FLASH + GAS ON?
If the issue is simply air in the gas line, there is no parts cost and the fix is a free reset procedure. If the igniter needs replacement, parts and labor typically range from around $50 to $150 depending on the component and service provider. A faulty gas valve is a more involved repair and costs can range from $100 to $300 or more, including parts and labor.

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