Lennox Furnace Error Code E270: Meaning & How to Fix It

By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026

Lennox furnace error code E270 means: Maximum ignition retries were exceeded with no flame current. Lennox checks gas flow, the ignitor and the flame sensor. [1] Keep using it? No. Don't keep resetting it. If it locks out again, call a technician.. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: check the gas supply valve.

Smell gas? Leave the building now. Do not touch light switches, phones or appliances inside. Call your gas utility or 911 from outside. CO alarm sounding or headache, dizziness or nausea? Get everyone outside and call 911. Gas valves, burners, venting and wiring are for a licensed technician only. See our safety policy.

Quick facts

Code	E270
Also shown as	None listed by the manufacturer
Brand / appliance	Lennox furnace (sl280dfv surelight gas furnaces (service literature 1117-l4))
System	Heating
Official meaning	Maximum ignition retries were exceeded with no flame current. Lennox checks gas flow, the ignitor and the flame sensor. [1]
Keep using it?	No. Don't keep resetting it. If it locks out again, call a technician.
DIY-safe?	Owner checks only (listed below)
Support	Lennox dealer (lennox.com)

On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ

What error code E270 means on an Lennox furnace

Maximum ignition retries were exceeded with no flame current. Lennox checks gas flow, the ignitor and the flame sensor. [1]

This is a heating code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.

How to fix Lennox furnace error code E270 (safe owner checks)

Owner checks only: on heating, cooling and water-heating equipment, limit yourself to reading the code and checking the thermostat, breaker and service switch, air filter, condensate drain, that the gas supply valve is open (no disassembly) and that vent terminals are clear of snow or debris. Reset power only if your manual allows it.

Safety first: disconnect power before you remove any panel or reach into the sump or drum. Do not touch wiring, the control board or the motor. If you see water near electrical parts, stop and call a technician. These steps are based on Lennox's published guidance [1], rewritten for clarity.

Check the gas supply valve. Make sure the manual gas valve at the furnace is open (handle in line with the pipe) and that other gas appliances work. Don't take anything apart.
Check the thermostat. Make sure it's set to HEAT above room temperature, with fresh batteries.

Parts that may be involved

Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.

No specific part is implied by the manufacturer's guidance for this code.

When to call a technician

Licensed HVAC technician for anything inside the furnace: igniter, flame sensor, pressure switch, inducer, limits, gas valve, wiring or board
Gas valves, burners, igniters, flame sensors, venting/flue or CO concerns: licensed HVAC technician or plumber
Refrigerant work: EPA 608-certified technician only
Smell of gas: leave and call the gas utility or 911
Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
The appliance is under warranty: contact Lennox dealer (lennox.com) first

Frequently asked questions

What does error code E270 mean on an Lennox furnace?

Lennox lists E270 as follows: Maximum ignition retries were exceeded with no flame current. Lennox checks gas flow, the ignitor and the flame sensor.

Is it safe to keep using the furnace with E270?

No. Don't keep resetting it. If it locks out again, call a technician..

Can I fix Lennox furnace error E270 myself?

Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: check the gas supply valve. If it persists, call a technician or Lennox dealer (lennox.com).

Sources

https://tech.lennoxintl.com/C03e7o14l/VIu12Ch2uV/1117n.pdf (official)

Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Lennox.