Suburban RV furnaces are an essential part of any country caravan, yet they can malfunction from time to time. One common problem is the furnace not igniting or lighting. If you have this problem with your Suburban RV furnace, then this article is for you! Here we will look at some of the most common causes of why your Suburban RV furnace might not be igniting and offer some helpful tips on how to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. We’ll also provide answers to frequently asked questions about Suburban RV furnace ignition problems as well as general maintenance tips that could help prevent such issues in the future.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Suburban RV Furnaces?
Suburban RV furnaces are made by the Suburban Manufacturing Company, which is a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicle appliances. They have been in business since 1966 and specialize in producing quality refrigerators, ranges, water heaters, furnaces, air conditioners and more. [2]
Where Are Suburban Furnaces Made?
Suburban furnaces are manufactured by Lippert Components, Inc., a leading manufacturer of RV accessories and components. Their furnaces are designed to provide reliable comfort in all types of recreational vehicles, including country caravans. [2]
Troubleshooting Your Suburban RV Furnace
Check the Power
The first step when troubleshooting your Suburban RV furnace is to check whether there’s an issue with the power supply. Check your circuit breakers and make sure they are in the “on” position, then make sure that all wires connecting to the unit are properly connected. You may also need to reset any GFCI outlets. [2]
Check for Dirt and Debris in the Intake
If the power is working properly, then you need to check for dirt and debris that may be blocking the intake of your Suburban RV furnace. This could be dust, cobwebs or leaves, so make sure to carefully inspect this area. Clean out any dirt or debris you find in order to restore proper airflow. [2]
Check the Fan
It’s also important to make sure that the fan is working properly. You can do this by manually turning it on and making sure it is spinning at a normal speed. If not, then you may need to replace the fan or get it serviced. [2]
Check the Thermostat
The next step is to check the thermostat. Make sure that it is set to the correct temperature and that it is functioning properly. If the thermostat is not working correctly, then you may need to replace it in order for your furnace to ignite. [2]
Check the Motor
If the power, intake, fan and thermostat are all functioning properly, then you should check the motor.
If the motor has low voltage or is not working at all, then it may need to be repaired or replaced. [2]
Check the Relay
If all of the above have been checked and are in working order, then you can move on to checking the relay. The relay is responsible for sending an electrical signal to ignite your furnace’s burner. If this is not functioning properly, then you may need to replace it in order for your furnace to ignite. [2]
Check the Control Board
Finally, you should check the control board. This is responsible for controlling all the components of your furnace and can be a potential source of problems. Make sure that all wires are connected properly, that no corrosion is present, and that there’s no damage to the board itself. [2]
How to Fix?
Check the propane
The first step to fixing a suburban RV furnace is to check the propane tank. If the tank is empty, you will need to refill it before you can proceed with troubleshooting.
Sail Switch
The sail switch, located near the RV furnace’s burner, is often responsible for why your suburban RV furnace won’t ignite. This part acts as a safety measure and will shut off the gas supply if it senses unsafe levels of oxygen in the area. To reset this device, you may need to consult your owner’s manual or contact a qualified RV repair technician. [1]
Limit Switch
The limit switch, located near the burner unit, can also be responsible for why your furnace won’t ignite. This part helps regulate the temperature and will shut off the gas supply if it senses conditions that are too hot or cold. To reset this device, you may need to consult your owner’s manual or contact a qualified RV repair technician. [1]
Ignitor/electrode
If the sail switch and limit switch are not the cause of your suburban RV furnace’s failure to ignite, then the ignitor or electrode may be the culprit. This part provides a spark that helps light the gas coming from the burner. If it has become worn over time or is otherwise faulty, you may need to replace it in order to get your furnace working again. [4]
Clean Your Furnace
Regularly cleaning your suburban RV furnace is also important for keeping it running smoothly. Make sure to remove any dust or debris from the burner and surrounding area, as this can prevent the furnace from lighting properly. If you find that your furnace is still not igniting after a thorough cleaning, then it may be time to contact an RV repair technician. [3]
Winterize Your Vehicle
During the winter months, it is important to make sure that your suburban RV furnace is properly winterized. This includes ensuring that all of your connections are secure and tight, as well as making sure that there is enough propane in your tank. Winterizing your vehicle will help ensure that it can easily handle the cold weather, which can be especially damaging to RV furnaces.
Taking the proper steps to fix a suburban RV furnace that won’t ignite can save you time and money in the long run. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your vehicle stays warm and cozy throughout the winter months. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified RV repair technician for professional help. [3]
Check for Gas Supply and Tanks
If you still experience furnace failure, check the gas supply and tanks. Make sure that all connections are secured tightly and that there is no obstruction in the propane line. If everything looks in order, then it may be time to contact a qualified RV repair technician who can run further tests to identify the source of your problem. [3]
Battery Corrosion Can Interrupt Service
Finally, take a check at your battery. Battery corrosion can interrupt service, which is why it’s important to make sure that all connections are clean and secure. If you notice any corrosion or discoloration around the terminals, contact an RV repair technician for assistance. [4]
Dealing With A Low Or Dead Onboard Battery
If your furnace fails to ignite due to a low or dead onboard battery, you can try jump starting it with an external battery. Simply attach the cables from the external battery to the terminals on your onboard battery and give it some time to charge up. Once the onboard battery is charged, your furnace should be able to ignite properly. [4]
Determining If It’s An Electrical Problem
If your suburban RV furnace still won’t ignite, it could be an electrical problem. If this is the case, you may need to contact a qualified RV repair technician who can run tests and diagnose the issue. [4]
A Damaged Wire Cause A Furnace Not To Ignite
Finally, check for any damaged wires that may be preventing your furnace from igniting. Damaged wiring can easily become disconnected and will likely need to be replaced in order for the furnace to work properly. If you suspect a wire is damaged, it’s best to call an RV repair technician who can detect and fix the issue quickly and safely. [4]
FAQ
Why is my furnace turning on but not igniting?
This is a common issue for suburban RV furnaces. The most likely cause of this problem is that the pilot light or main burners are clogged with dust and dirt, preventing them from igniting properly. You may also have an electrical issue in the system, such as a bad spark generator or faulty thermocouple.
How do you troubleshoot a Suburban RV furnace?
The first step to troubleshooting a Suburban RV furnace is to check the pilot light. If it’s not lit, try lighting it manually by following the instructions in your owner’s manual.
If that doesn’t work, you should check the flame sensor and spark generator for dirt or debris build-up. If any of these components are dirty, they may need to be cleaned or replaced.
Next, check the air filter. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and prevent the furnace from igniting properly. If it’s clogged, replace it with a new one.
Finally, you should inspect the wiring and electrical connections for any signs of damage. If you find any loose or corroded wires, replace them before attempting to ignite the furnace again.
How do I get my furnace to ignite?
If the pilot light is lit but the main burners aren’t igniting, you may need to adjust the flame height or replace the thermocouple. If these don’t work, then it could be an electrical issue with the spark generator or wiring.
If all else fails, you may need to call a professional to inspect and repair the furnace.
How do you test an RV furnace ignitor?
First, you’ll need to disconnect the power source and remove the furnace cover. Next, locate the ignitor and inspect it for any signs of damage or corrosion. If everything looks OK, you can use a multimeter to test the continuity between the two terminals.
How do you ignite an RV furnace?
To ignite an RV furnace, first make sure the pilot light is lit. Then, turn the thermostat to the “On” position and set it to a temperature at least 5 degrees higher than the current room temperature. If everything is working properly, you should hear a clicking sound as the spark ignites the main burners.
Once the main burners have ignited, you can lower the thermostat to your desired temperature and let the furnace do its job. You may also want to check that all vents are open and free of obstructions so that air can flow freely throughout the RV.
Can hear your RV furnace click on but it does not fire up?
If you can hear the furnace clicking on but it does not fire up, then the most likely cause is a faulty spark generator or thermocouple. You may need to replace one of these components in order to get your furnace working again. Additionally, you should check for any dirt or debris buildup in the pilot light or main burners, as this can also prevent ignition.
Can you manually light an RV furnace?
Yes, you can manually light an RV furnace. First, make sure the pilot light is lit and all vents are open. Then, follow the instructions in your owner’s manual for lighting the main burners manually. This typically involves turning off the propane valve and then opening it again after a few seconds to allow gas to flow into the furnace. Finally, use a match or lighter to ignite the gas.
What is a reset button on an RV furnace?
If you press this button, it will stop all gas flow until you manually reset it. You should only use this button if you suspect there’s a problem with the furnace and need to shut off the gas.
Useful Video: Suburban RV furnace won’t light, blows cold. Troubleshooting tips from RV TECH TIPS
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to remember that the issue of a Suburban RV furnace not igniting can be quite complex and may require the help of an experienced technician. However, if you take all the necessary precautions and carry out regular maintenance on your caravan’s heating system, then chances are you won’t ever have to face such a problem. Additionally, it is always best to stay informed about the most common causes of such issues and take measures to avoid them. If you follow all the safety guidelines and troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, then you should be able to prevent future furnace igniting issues and keep your caravan warm and cozy for years to come!
References
- https://outdoormiles.com/rv-furnace-wont-ignite/
- https://www.getawaycouple.com/suburban-rv-furnace/
- https://www.camperupgrade.com/suburban-rv-furnace-not-igniting/
- https://www.rvingknowhow.com/rv-furnace-wont-ignite/