Alto-Shaam Combi Oven Error Code E88: Gas Ignition Failure
E88 Gas Ignition Failure means the burner did not ignite. Press the Start icon to acknowledge it and try to clear it; if it returns a third time after two clears, take the oven out of service and call a service provider.
High: the burner will not light, and repeated resets are not allowed past two tries.
- Code
- E88
- Maker
- Alto-Shaam
- Equipment
- Combi ovens
- Applies to
- Combitherm CT PROformance (CTP) and CT Classic (CTC)
What does Alto-Shaam error code E88 mean?
A gas combi oven lights its burner when the control calls for heat. The ignition system tries to start the flame and then confirms it. If the burner does not ignite, the control posts E88 Gas Ignition Failure. The manual does not give a cause list. It points to its procedure for no combustion on a call for heat, which a technician follows. It also sets a three-strike rule. You acknowledge the message and try to clear it twice. If it returns a third time after those two clears, the oven should be taken out of service and a service provider called. The rule exists because repeated attempts to light a burner that will not ignite can build up unburned gas. Pressing Start acknowledges the message and the oven then tries to return to normal operation, so the first two retries are allowed, but not a third.
Affected models and control systems
Alto-Shaam Combitherm CT PROformance and CT Classic gas-fired combi ovens in sizes 6-10, 10-10, 7-20, 10-20, 20-10 and 20-20. Electric versions have no burner and do not show this code.
Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.
What you may notice
- E88 Gas Ignition Failure on the display
- No heat when a program starts
- Clicking or a short blower sound with no flame
Possible causes
Listed in Alto-Shaam's documentation
- Manual procedure for no combustion on a call for heat applies
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code E88 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- Gas supply interrupted by a closed shutoff valve or an empty propane tank at the kitchen
- Combustion air restricted by a blocked intake or exhaust flue
Safe checks before calling for service
- Press the Start icon once to acknowledge E88 and let the oven try again.
- If the message returns, acknowledge it a second time and try once more.
- If it returns a third time, turn the oven off, close the gas valve to it and stop using it.
- If you smell gas, leave the area and call your gas provider; otherwise note the time and tell the technician how many times it returned.
How a technician diagnoses error code E88
- Read the code and confirm the three-strike history.
- Verify gas supply pressure at the oven with a manometer.
- Follow the manual's no combustion on a call for heat procedure.
- Inspect the igniter, flame sensor and ignition control with a meter.
- Check the gas valve operation, then the combustion air and flue path.
- Gas valves and burners involve fuel gas and need a leak-tight, tested repair.
- The ignition control and igniter use live voltage.
- A burner that will not light must be handled with combustion testing, not repeated attempts.
How error code E88 differs from similar codes
E89 is the same ignition failure for the table-top or upper burner, with its listed causes; E88 applies the manual's procedure to the burner in general.
Technical reference
- Maker documentation
- Alto-Shaam owner support
- Edition
- MN-35949 Rev 08 03/22
- Models / control
- Combitherm CT PROformance (CTP) and CT Classic (CTC)
- Section
- Error Codes, pp. 25-31
- Checked
- October 2026
We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.
Related Alto-Shaam combi oven error codes
How many times may I reset E88?
Twice. After a third return, take the oven out of service and call.
What if I smell gas?
Leave the area and call your gas provider before anything else.
Is E88 the same on electric ovens?
No. Electric combis have no burner.
Need help with Alto-Shaam error code E88?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.