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 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.
AquaHot cycling every 15 minutes at idle is not normal. Possible causes include heat loss through stuck zone valves, thermostat issues, or circulation pump running when it shouldnt. Check that all zone valves are closed and pumps are off when no heat is called for.
Keep your RV comfortable in any weather with this AC, furnace, and heat pump troubleshooting guide.
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.
Motoraid heat exchanger uses engine coolant for coach heating. Maintain coolant level and inspect hoses. Drain when winterizing.
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.
Replace Atwood 8535-III with Dometic 8535-IV direct replacement or Suburban NT-30SP alternative.
Aqua Hot engine hose failure requires coolant hose repair or temporary bypass to Aqua Hot. Carry spare heater hose, clamps, and coolant for roadside emergencies. Bypass Aqua Hot if needed to get to shop.
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.
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.
Several companies specialize in rebuilding Oasis RV heaters, including RV Parts Country, Suburban Manufacturing, and local RV repair shops. You can also attempt basic repairs yourself or consider upgrading to a newer heating system.
A propane smell from your Atwood 8525 furnace during operation typically indicates improper burner installation, incorrect air-to-gas mixture, or a cracked heat exchanger. Check burner alignment, air intake sealing, and combustion chamber integrity immediately as this is a serious safety concern.
When your RV furnace clicks but won't ignite, the most common causes are a faulty igniter electrode, blocked burner orifice, or malfunctioning sail switch. Start by checking for proper gas flow and inspecting the igniter for damage or buildup.
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.