RV LP Gas Detector False Alarms: Complete Troubleshooting Guide
Fix LP gas detector false alarms in RVs. Covers trigger sources, sensor age, proper placement, and when to replace your propane detector.
Fix LP gas detector false alarms in RVs. Covers trigger sources, sensor age, proper placement, and when to replace your propane detector.
A Norcold N7LX.3F running more frequently than normal typically indicates cooling efficiency problems. Check door seals, thermostat calibration, and ensure proper ventilation around the cooling unit.
When your RV furnace blows cold air but won't ignite, the problem is usually a dirty flame sensor, blocked air intake, faulty ignition board, or gas supply issue. Most ignition problems can be diagnosed and fixed with basic cleaning and component checks.
Furnace that lights for 5-10 seconds then shuts off is classic flame sensor failure. Clean the sensor with steel wool or emery cloth - do not use sandpaper. If cleaning fails, replace the sensor. Located near burner, single wire connection.
Furnace running 5-10 minutes then quitting usually indicates overheating from restricted airflow, weak flame, or failing control board. Check combustion air intake, propane pressure, and burner flame quality. Control board becomes suspect if other tests pass.
The 'no CO' error on your Norcold N842IM after 8-9 hours on propane is typically caused by combustion issues like a dirty burner, blocked flue, or faulty thermocouple. Start by cleaning the burner assembly and checking for proper ventilation.
Tankless RV water heaters lose significant efficiency at high altitude - about 4% per 1,000 feet. Above 4,500 feet, expect reduced output and possible flame failure. Consider traditional tank heaters if you frequently camp in mountains.
Furnace running 10 seconds then stopping is usually sail switch not sensing airflow, dirty flame sensor, or blocked vents. Check blower operation, clean flame sensor, verify air paths clear.
Furnace rumble and backfire indicates air-fuel mixture problems. Check gas pressure at manifold, deep clean burner by soaking, and inspect heat exchanger. Delayed ignition from weak spark or dirty igniter also causes this. May need replacement on 20+ year unit.
Intermittent flame failure varying from seconds to minutes indicates marginal flame sensor signal or airflow issues. Clean flame sensor with steel wool until shiny. Check combustion air intake and exhaust routing. Gas pressure fluctuation also possible.
Norcold 1210 not cooling without error codes indicates cooling unit failure. Controls work but ammonia system failed. Verify by checking heat source working but no cooling. Replace or repair cooling unit options.
When upgrading your Suburban KT30 furnace to the 521099 circuit board, you need to properly connect the flame sensor circuit to get continuous spark ignition instead of just one spark. The new board requires different wiring than simply grounding the old flame sensor wire.
Keep your RV comfortable in any weather with this AC, furnace, and heat pump troubleshooting guide.
Furnace blower runs but no ignition usually indicates sail switch, igniter, or gas valve failure. Check sail switch for debris first. Watch for spark at igniter. First run of season may need multiple cycles to purge air.
Your Suburban SW6D water heater likely has a combustion air intake blockage or ECO switch issue preventing proper airflow. The problem occurs because the unit needs adequate combustion air to maintain the flame safely.