Bertazzoni Cooktops FFD FLAME FAILURE Error: Flame failure device tripped
What Is FFD Flame Failure on a Bertazzoni Gas Cooktop? Bertazzoni gas cooktops — including the Professional Series and Heritage Series models with brass Star burners — use a Flame Failure Device (FFD) on every burner. The FFD is a safety mechanism: a thermocouple sits in the flame and generates a small millivoltage that holds […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. A burner that will not stay lit means the flame failure safety system is active. Do not attempt to bypass the FFD. Identify and resolve the cause before using the burner.
Can I reset the code?
No. The FFD resets automatically when the thermocouple is sufficiently heated by the flame. If the burner still will not stay lit after correct technique and cleaning, the thermocouple must be replaced.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Burner will not stay lit even after holding the knob for 15 seconds, Smell of gas when the burner is off or between ignition attempts.
Symptoms You May Notice
Gas burner lights when the igniter sparks but goes out 2–5 seconds after the control knob is released to the cooking position
The Bertazzoni Star burner's Flame Failure Device keeps the gas valve open only while the thermocouple generates sufficient millivoltage from the flame heat. Releasing the knob before the thermocouple is adequately heated drops the valve closed.
Burner stays lit only while the knob is held fully depressed
This is the classic symptom of a thermocouple not holding the safety valve. It may be a technique issue (knob released too early), carbon fouling, or a failed thermocouple component.
Possible Causes
Thermocouple not adequately heated before knob release
The thermocouple tip must generate sufficient millivoltage to hold the gas valve open electromagnetically. Releasing the knob too quickly — before 5–10 seconds — does not allow the thermocouple time to heat.
DIY PossibleCarbon-fouled or failed thermocouple
Carbon deposits from boil-overs insulate the thermocouple tip from the flame, reducing its output below the minimum needed to hold the safety valve open. A corroded or failed thermocouple requires replacement.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Hold the knob depressed for a full 10 seconds after lighting
Light the burner and hold the control knob fully depressed for a full 10 seconds before slowly releasing. If the flame stays lit, user technique was the issue.
The Bertazzoni use and care manual explicitly states: after lighting the burner, keep the knob pressed for a few seconds to deactivate the flame failure device.
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2
Clean the thermocouple tip
With the burner cool and gas off, use a fine wire brush or clean cloth to gently wipe carbon deposits from the small metal thermocouple probe positioned next to the burner crown.
Even a thin layer of carbon can insulate the tip enough to prevent proper thermocouple output. Clean around the full circumference of the tip.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Thermocouple output voltage is below 10 mV when measured at the safety valve coil terminals
- Gas valve electromagnet coil reads open circuit on continuity test
- Thermocouple body is cracked or physically damaged
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