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ErrBase

Goodman Furnace EAF Error Code: Abnormal Flame Sense

Quick Answer

Goodman EAF means the flame sensor microamp reading is outside the expected range during burner operation. Normal flame sensor output on a Goodman furnace is 0.5-8 microamps DC. A reading below 0.5 uA means the flame is not being reliably detected even though it may be burning.

Goodman EAF means the flame sensor microamp reading is outside the expected range during burner operation. Normal flame sensor output on a Goodman furnace is 0.5-8 microamps DC. A reading below 0.5 uA means the flame is not being reliably detected even though it may be burning. A coated or corroded sensor rod is the cause in the majority of cases and cleaning alone restores the signal. Low gas pressure producing a weak flame is the second cause - a weak flame means less ionization current for the sensor to measure. Grounding faults in the sensor circuit and degraded control board circuitry account for the remainder.

GoodmanFurnaceSeverity: moderateDifficulty: intermediate81% DIY Success
Time to Fix
15–45 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$10 – $20
Tools Needed
Multimeter with DC microamp setting, Fine steel wool or 400-grit emery cloth

What Does the EAF Code Mean?

EAF fires when the flame sensor microamp reading is wrong - too low or erratic. Clean the sensor rod first. Then verify gas pressure is adequate. Spec is 0.5-8 microamps DC during normal operation.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Coated or corroded flame sensor rod reducing ionization current40%
Weak flame from low gas pressure giving insufficient microamp signal24%
Control board flame sense circuit degraded22%
Grounding fault in flame sensor circuit14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Furnace lighting but shutting off after a few seconds
  • LED flashing EAF after burner ignites
  • Intermittent heat - works sometimes, not others
  • Flame visible through sight glass but furnace drops out

Can you reset a Goodman furnace to clear the EAF code?

After cleaning the flame sensor and resolving any gas pressure or wiring issue, flip the circuit breaker off for 30 seconds, then restore power and call for heat. EAF should not return if the sensor is clean and reading within spec.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Multimeter with DC microamp settingFine steel wool or 400-grit emery clothScrewdriver setFlashlight

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Remove the flame sensor rod (one screw)

Remove the flame sensor rod (one screw). Inspect the tip for any discoloration, white coating, or oxidation. Clean the tip thoroughly with fine steel wool or 400-grit emery cloth until the bare metal is shiny. Reinstall.

2

For a definitive microamp test

3

Observe the burner flame through the sight glass during operation

4

Inspect the flame sensor wiring from the sensor to the control

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
Flame Sensor RodB11726-06 · $10–$20

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $15 (Parts) vs $2350 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the normal flame sensor reading on a Goodman furnace?
0.5 to 8 microamps DC during active flame. Below 0.5 uA, the control board considers the signal too weak to confirm a stable flame and shuts down. Above 8 uA can also indicate a fault, though this is less common on residential furnaces.
How do I measure flame sensor microamps on a Goodman?
Set your multimeter to DC microamps (uA). With the furnace running, disconnect the flame sensor wire at the control board terminal, then place the meter probes in series: one to the board terminal and one to the wire going to the sensor. The reading during active flame should be 0.5-8 uA DC.
How often should I clean the flame sensor?
Once a year as part of annual furnace maintenance before the heating season is a good practice. It takes 5 minutes and prevents the most common cause of EAF, F01, and EE3 codes.

Related Goodman Furnace Error Codes

Code: HUBGoodman Furnace Error Codes: LED Flash Code Guide for GMVC and GMSS SeriesCode: F01Goodman Furnace F01 Error Code: Ignition Failure After 3 AttemptsCode: E1CGoodman Furnace E1C Error Code: Flame Sense Without Call for HeatCode: RESETHow to Reset a Goodman Furnace and Clear Error Codes

Models Known to Experience EAF Errors

This repair applies to most Goodman furnaces with this error code. Common model numbers include:

GMVC96, GMSS92, GCVC96, AMVC96, ASST96

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026