mypros+
Error code reference

Lennox Furnace Error Code 8 Flashes

Lockout

Avg. service call
$285
National average. Trip fee plus diagnostic plus labor. Before parts.
MyPros+ 3-day pass
$9.95
Same diagnostic steps, on your phone. Start now.
You keep in your pocket
~$275
Even before you buy the part.
Skip the service call. Fix it yourself.
Full procedure unlocks instantly.
Get Started

What the 8 Flashes error code actually means

Your Lennox furnace tried to light the burners multiple times but kept losing the flame, so it shut itself down as a safety measure. This is called a lockout, and the furnace will not try to restart on its own until you reset it. The most likely culprits are a dirty flame sensor, low gas pressure, or a problem with the ignition system.

Diagnostic procedure

The full 8 Flashes procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Check flame sensor, gas pressure, and ignition system.
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
Unlock 8 Flashes procedure $9.95

Or subscribe: $29/month for unlimited access to all codes plus Max AI diagnostics.

Most common causes of 8 Flashes

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Dirty or Faulty Flame Sensor
  2. 2Insufficient Gas Pressure
  3. 3Weak or Failing Ignitor
  4. 4Faulty Gas Valve
  5. 5Improper Combustion Air or Draft Issues

Most DIYers save hundreds by diagnosing before ordering parts.

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

Questions people ask about 8 Flashes

What does 8 Flashes mean on a Lennox furnace?
8 Flashes on a Lennox furnace indicates a lockout condition caused by the burners losing flame too many times during operation. The control board (103085) tracks each flame loss event and shuts the furnace down after repeated failures to maintain a stable flame. This is a safety feature designed to prevent unsafe ignition cycling. The furnace will remain locked out until power is manually cycled to reset it.
Is it safe to keep running my furnace when it shows 8 Flashes?
The furnace will not operate while locked out, so there is no active safety risk from the lockout state itself. However, you should not repeatedly reset the furnace without investigating the underlying cause. Repeated failed ignition attempts can indicate a gas supply or ignition problem that should be properly diagnosed before continued operation.
How much does it cost to repair a Lennox furnace showing 8 Flashes?
Repair costs depend on what is causing the repeated flame loss. Cleaning the flame sensor is a low-cost repair, typically in the range of $75 to $150 for a service call. Replacing a flame sensor or ignitor generally runs $100 to $250 in parts and labor. A gas valve replacement is more involved and can cost $300 to $600 or more depending on the part and local labor rates.
How do I fix the 8 Flashes error on my Lennox furnace?
Start by turning the furnace off at the thermostat and cycling power at the breaker or power switch to clear the lockout. Then inspect the flame sensor rod for buildup and clean it if needed, check the gas supply to confirm the valve is fully open, and look for any blockages in the flue or venting. If the error returns after resetting, further diagnosis of the gas pressure, ignitor, and gas valve is required.
Will resetting the furnace clear the 8 Flashes lockout?
Yes, cycling power to the furnace at the breaker or the furnace power switch will clear the lockout and allow the control board (103085) to attempt ignition again. However, if the root cause is not corrected, such as a dirty flame sensor or low gas pressure, the furnace will lose flame again and return to the 8 Flashes lockout condition.

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass