Bryant 355MAV Error Code 22: Abnormal Flame-Proving Signal
What Does Code 22 Mean?
Status code 22 on the Bryant 355MAV means the control is detecting flame while the gas valve is de-energized — in other words, the board sees a flame when there should be none. As a safety response, the inducer motor runs continuously until the fault clears, purging any gas from the heat exchanger and burner area.
The most common cause is a gas valve leaking internally, letting small amounts of gas pass even when the valve is electrically closed. A stuck-open gas valve, where the internal mechanism has failed in the open position from wear or debris, is the other main cause. Less commonly, a fault in the flame-sense circuit can send a false flame signal.
This is distinct from code 21, which is about the valve control circuit and wiring; code 22 is about flame being present when the valve is off. Because a leaking gas valve is a real possibility, treat this as urgent. Do not try to diagnose or repair it yourself — turn off the gas at the manual shutoff valve and call a qualified HVAC technician.
What You'll Notice
- The inducer (draft) motor runs continuously and will not shut off, even with no call for heat
- The furnace does not run a normal heating cycle while the fault is active
- There may be a faint gas odor near the furnace
- The status LED flashes code 22 (two short flashes, two long flashes)
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Leaky gas valve | Most common | ✗ Call a pro → |
| Stuck-open gas valve | Common | ✗ Call a pro → |
How This Is Diagnosed
A technician first treats the situation as a possible gas leak: the manual gas is shut off and the space is ventilated. The gas valve is then tested for internal leak-by or a stuck-open condition, since a valve passing gas while de-energized is the primary suspect.
If the valve proves tight, the flame-sensing circuit and its wiring are checked for a fault that could produce a false flame signal. All of these are gas-valve and flame-circuit checks, so they are performed only by a qualified technician, never as a DIY repair.
When to Call a Professional
This code involves components that are not homeowner-serviceable, so have a licensed HVAC technician diagnose and repair it. Keep in mind:
- Immediately — the code can indicate a leaking or stuck-open gas valve, a serious safety hazard
- The inducer motor runs continuously and will not stop
- You notice any gas odor near the furnace
- The fault does not clear after the furnace has been off
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Bryant 355MAV inducer keep running with code 22?
The board runs the inducer continuously on purpose to vent any gas, because it is detecting flame when the gas valve should be closed. It is a protective response to a potential leaking or stuck-open valve.
Is it safe to keep using the furnace with code 22?
No. Because a leaking gas valve is possible, shut off the gas at the manual valve and call a qualified HVAC technician. Do not attempt to diagnose or repair the gas valve yourself.
Sources
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026