Firegear Outdoors · Troubleshooting
Firegear AWS Ignition Not Firing: Troubleshooting
When an AWS system won't fire, there's a short diagnostic ladder: power, spark, gas, flame sense. Walk it in order and 90% of the time the issue is a tripped GFCI or a corroded flame sensor — both are 10-minute fixes.
By Rob · Updated November 8, 2026
What you need
- Multimeter
- Fine emery paper for flame sensor cleanup
- Known-good GFCI tester
Step by step
Check the GFCI outlet first
Walk to the GFCI the AWS transformer is plugged into. Press RESET. Many 'AWS not firing' calls are a tripped GFCI from a neighboring appliance.
Confirm 120V at the transformer input
Multimeter across the transformer input. 120V = circuit good, move on. No voltage = breaker, GFCI, or wiring issue.
Confirm low voltage at the control box input
Transformer output to control box should be the low voltage specified on the transformer label (typically 12 or 24V). No voltage = transformer failed. Correct voltage = move on.
Check for spark at the electrode
With gas OFF, trigger ignition and watch the electrode. Visible spark = electrical path is good. No spark = electrode gap too wide, cracked ceramic, or control box issue.
Clean the flame sensor
The single most common AWS failure: flame sensor fouls with a green film and no longer senses flame, so the control box locks out. Pull the sensor, gentle sand with fine emery, reinstall. Fixes 50% of 'AWS won't stay lit' calls.
Common mistakes
- Replacing the control box when the flame sensor is the fix. Control boxes are $150-300; flame sensors are $20. Always try the sensor first.
Hands-on tips
- Keep a spare spark electrode AND flame sensor in a dry box next to the fire feature.
Questions people ask
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