clicking/chattering gas valve solenoid - http://www.hvacmechanic.com/ Forums

Original message

ddaytona1

68.85.160.208

"clicking/chattering gas valve solenoid" , posted Mon 8 Nov 09:29

I'm working on an old magic chef 60HWC30A-3 combination heating and cooling unit. The problem is a chattering or clicking solenoid on the gas valve. The old gas valve solenoid was clicking and chattering as well as the new gas valve. When the unit is turned on, the pilot lights, then the gas supply solenoid is turned on. That solenoid clicks on and off (turning the burners on and off )for about 2-3 minutes then then finaly stays on with the burners lit.
What could be the problem part? Ignition control? Thermocouple? Limit switch (what is the function of the limit switch?)? I havent checked the 24V from the transformer yet, but the pilot solenoid toggles just fine as does the electrode.

Thanks for your help !

Replies:

ddaytona1

12.108.108.190

"Re(1):clicking/chattering gas valve solenoid" , posted Thu 11 Nov 09:46

Rusty Mike/Xenos/Wolfe,

Re: Rustymike's comment "ventor motor end switch/air proving switch"

I have an electrical schematic of the system. Are you referring to the combustion blower motor and Sail Switch ? I seee the see the Sail switch is integrated in the combustion blower motor or on the output of the blower motor according to the diagram.

Also, what is the funciton of the Limit switch that's inseries with the Sail switch ?

thanks again.

xenos
Webmaster

67.70.19.98

"Re(2):clicking/chattering gas valve solenoid" , posted Thu 11 Nov 17:18

Both are safety controls.

Xenos.

The best way to escape a problem is to solve it.

ddaytona1

68.85.160.208

"Re(1):clicking/chattering gas valve solenoid" , posted Thu 11 Nov 09:35

Thanks for the advice. I'll check ground & Clean/replace the flame sensor as well as check the 24V from the transformer.

xenos
Webmaster

67.71.23.44

"Re(1):clicking/chattering gas valve solenoid" , posted Mon 8 Nov 22:12

I would like to add ,make sure you have 24vac. If it low or if the transformer does not have sufficent VA the loads will chatter.

Xenos.

The best way to escape a problem is to solve it.

Wolfe

216.177.239.39

"Re(1):clicking/chattering gas valve solenoid" , posted Mon 8 Nov 20:51

I'm with Rustymike on this one. If those things fail I'd guess ignition module, and perhaps ground.

Rustymike

209.161.202.171

"Re(1):clicking/chattering gas valve solenoid" , posted Mon 8 Nov 10:13

First, start with the basics. Check the ventor motor end switch/air proving switch, clean the pilot sensor and pilot burner the pilot flame may be "lifting" off the sensor when the main flame is on.

No matter how idiot proof you make something better idiots will always try and screw around with it!

ddaytona1

68.85.160.208

"Re(2):clicking/chattering gas valve solenoid" , posted Wed 17 Nov 10:03

I put pressure on the pilot sensor mounting bracket with a screw driver and observed the clicking to stop.
I disassembled the pilot sensor and bracket. Sanded down the mounting bracket, flame sensor, and tightened the mounting screws. The clicking/chattering has stopped.

Thanks for the suggestions.

Would still like some detailed information as to the functioning of the limit switches.