White-Rodgers 3046-5 Flame Sensor

The White-Rodgers 3046-5 is a high-performance mercury flame sensor designed for precise flame detection in residential and commercial heating systems. Featuring a 42-inch capillary tube, this sensor provides the necessary reach for complex burner configurations, ensuring reliable signal transmission to the primary ignition control. Engineered for Lo/Line voltage applications, the 3046-5 serves as a critical safety component by monitoring the pilot flame and preventing the main gas valve from energizing if no flame is presence. This HVAC replacement flame sensor is essential for maintaining the operational integrity of older gas-fired equipment. Technicians prefer this model for its durable mercury-filled bulb architecture, which offers consistent millivolt output and thermal response times. When performing a furnace flame sensor replacement, the 3046-5 ensures seamless integration with compatible White-Rodgers gas valves, maintaining system uptime and preventing nuisance lockouts in demanding environments.

• Extended 42-Inch Capillary: Offers maximum flexibility for routing around heat exchangers and internal components.
• Dual Voltage Compatibility: Rated for both low voltage and line voltage circuits, providing versatility across multiple White-Rodgers ignition systems.
• Industrial Grade Mercury Bulb: Delivers rapid thermal response and accurate flame sensing to minimize sequence delays.
• Simplified Installation: Standard mounting bracket compatibility ensures a direct fit for many legacy furnace models.

What causes a flame sensor to fail in these systems?
Failure is typically due to a breach in the capillary tube or degradation of the internal mercury element, which prevents the sensor from generating the required signal to hold the gas valve open.

Can this sensor be cleaned like a standard electrode?
No. Unlike flame rods that accumulate carbon, this is a sealed mercury sensor. If it fails to detect a flame, the entire assembly must be replaced rather than cleaned.

Is the 3046-5 compatible with electronic ignition?
This specific model is primarily designed for systems utilizing a mercury-style flame safety circuit and is not a substitute for a standard silicon carbide igniter or flame rod.

Disclaimer: While we strive for 100% accuracy, product data and specifications are subject to change. Please contact our team to confirm compatibility or technical details before purchasing.