Napoleon manuals & error codes
Napoleon Altitude X: Error Codes, Quick Fixes and Manual
This page covers the Napoleon Altitude X 36 and 42 gas fireplaces, both the current -2 models and the earlier -1 models.
What this unit is
The Altitude X is a Napoleon gas fireplace that uses the Proflame 2 remote and control system, with pilot-on-demand (IPI/CPI) lighting. The current models also work with Napoleon's eFIRE app. Napoleon's owner's manual for the -1 models confirms the Proflame 2 system.
Error codes: what the flashes mean
When something's wrong, the control module (called the IFC) flashes its red diagnostic light a set number of times, with a pause of a few seconds between each group of flashes.
| Flashes | What it means | Safe thing to try |
|---|---|---|
| 1 flash | The backup batteries in the control module are low | Replace the 4 AA backup batteries in the control module's battery holder with fresh ones. On low batteries it may not light at all |
| 2 flashes | False flame signal: the system senses a pilot flame at startup when there shouldn't be one (a pilot flame-sensing error) | Don't keep retrying. Turn it off and call a tech |
| 3 flashes | Ignition lockout: the fireplace tried to light and failed several times | If you smell gas, don't reset: leave and call from outside. Otherwise turn it off with the remote or ON/OFF switch, wait at least 2 seconds, turn it back on (or cut power to the unit for a few seconds and restore it), and try once more |
Common problems
- It won't light and shows 3 flashes. This lockout is a safety feature. Reset it once by turning the system off and on. If it locks out again, stop and get a tech to look at it, since repeated failed lighting usually needs hands-on diagnosis.
- The remote or controls act up, or you see 1 flash. Start with fresh backup batteries in the control module, plus fresh batteries in the remote.
- 2 flashes. This points to a flame-sensing problem. It isn't something to fix yourself.
When to call a tech
- Any gas smell (leave first, then call your gas supplier)
- 2 flashes, or 3 flashes that come back after one reset
- The glass is cracked or the fireplace makes unusual noises or soot
Official manuals
Napoleon hosts these manuals on its own site. Check that the model number on your rating plate (behind the lower grille or near the controls) matches.
- Altitude X 36/42, current (AX36NTE-2 / AX42NTE-2, propane AX36PTE-2 / AX42PTE-2): official manual
- Altitude X 36/42, earlier -1 models (AX36NTE-1 / AX42NTE-1, propane AX36PTE-1 / AX42PTE-1), owner's manual: official manual
Still stuck? Book a $49 video call
A real fireplace tech can look at your Napoleon Altitude X with you over live video. A Quick Fix call is $49 for up to 15 minutes, and you see the price before you book.
Book a video call or find a local pro
Back to all Napoleon manuals and error codes
Error code meanings come from SIT's Proflame 2 IFC instructions (SIT 9.957.103, p.11 lockout reset, p.12 diagnostic light table). Napoleon is a trademark of its owner; this page isn't affiliated with or endorsed by Napoleon.