Most RV heat pumps draw 12-16 amps when running, well within your 30-amp service capacity. However, you'll need to manage other electrical loads to avoid tripping breakers when the heat pump cycles on.
Dual purpose lithium batteries work for coach use but dedicated deep cycle lithium is better for house banks. Dual purpose compromises between starting and cycling. For RV house batteries, deep cycle LiFePO4 provides better value and cycle life.
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.
Your Coleman 9420-381 thermostat has failing solid-state switching components causing voltage drop during heating calls. This is a known issue with this model - replace it with a more reliable thermostat or return to a mechanical relay-based 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.
When a Suburban RV furnace only works on battery power but fails to heat on shore power, the issue is typically a converter providing incorrect voltage (13.8V+ instead of 12V) to the control board. The solution involves checking voltage levels and potentially adjusting or replacing the converter.
Keep your RV comfortable in any weather with this AC, furnace, and heat pump troubleshooting guide.
Suburban SH-42 thermostat circuit is simple - thermostat closes circuit to allow furnace to run. After thermostat replacement, verify both wires are connected tightly at thermostat and furnace. Test by jumping thermostat wires at furnace - if it starts, wiring or thermostat issue.
RV 12V systems typically use 40A auto-reset breakers with dual 6V batteries and WFCO converters. Check breaker rating stamped on unit. Common sizes are 30A, 40A, and 50A.
For a 2002 Born Free with Suburban SF-30 furnace, choose the complete furnace replacement over just the core. While cores cost less, complete units include updated components, better reliability, and easier installation for DIYers.
When your Airxcel furnace doesn't respond to the thermostat, start by checking the 12V power supply, thermostat wiring connections, and propane supply. Most issues are electrical rather than propane-related.
RV electric heat not working while propane works suggests heating element, relay, or thermostat issue. Check breakers, listen for relay click, and test element continuity. Heat strips and elements are replaceable.