Is your Atwood 8535 furnace acting up when you need it most? You’re not alone. Many RV owners face frustrating issues with their heating systems, especially during chilly nights. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your furnace doesn’t work as it should.
Key Takeaways
- Understand Key Components: Familiarize yourself with the main parts of the Atwood 8535 furnace, including the burner assembly, thermostat, blower motor, and control board, to effectively troubleshoot problems.
- Common Issues: Be aware of typical issues like no ignition, poor heating performance, and unusual noises, and know the signs to look for, such as clogged filters, faulty thermostats, and electrical problems.
- Initial Troubleshooting Steps: Start troubleshooting by checking the propane supply, inspecting power connections, and cleaning filters and vents to ensure your furnace operates efficiently.
- Maintenance is Essential: Regular cleaning and seasonal inspections are crucial to maintain your Atwood 8535 furnace’s performance and prevent common issues from arising.
- Safety First: Always check safety features and ensure that all components are functioning correctly before heavy use, particularly before colder seasons.
Overview of Atwood 8535 Furnace
The Atwood 8535 furnace is a popular choice for RV owners due to its efficient heating capabilities. This compact furnace features a direct vent system and operates using propane. Understanding its main components helps in troubleshooting issues more effectively.
Main Components
- Burner Assembly: This part ignites the propane, creating heat. If the burner malfunctions, your furnace may not heat properly.
- Thermostat: Set your desired temperature using the thermostat. A faulty thermostat may lead to inaccurate temperature readings.
- Blower Motor: The blower circulates warm air throughout your RV. If it fails, heat distribution suffers, causing cold spots.
- Control Board: The control board manages all electrical functions of the furnace. An error here may prevent the system from starting.
Common Features
- Compact Design: The 8535 fits easily into tight spaces, making it suitable for various RV layouts.
- Easy Operation: With simple controls, you can quickly adjust settings to maintain comfort.
- Efficient Heating: This furnace uses minimal propane, helping you conserve fuel during your trips.
Troubleshooting Basics
When facing issues with your Atwood 8535 furnace, begin with basic steps:
- Check the Propane Supply: Ensure the tank is full and the valves are open.
- Inspect Power Connections: Ensure all electrical connections are secure and functional.
- Examine the Thermostat Settings: Adjust the thermostat to make sure it calls for heat.
- Clean Filters and Vents: Blocked filters and vents can restrict airflow and reduce heating efficiency.
- Listen for Noises: Unusual sounds may indicate specific problems with components like the blower or burner.
By familiarizing yourself with these components and features, you’ll enhance your ability to troubleshoot and maintain your Atwood 8535 furnace effectively.
Common Issues in Atwood 8535 Furnace
Understanding common issues in the Atwood 8535 furnace helps you troubleshoot effectively. Here are a few frequent problems you might encounter.
No Ignition
No ignition is a common issue that can occur with your Atwood 8535 furnace. You’ll want to check the following:
- Propane Supply: Ensure that propane tanks are full and valves are open.
- Power Connections: Inspect all electrical connections, confirming they’re secure.
- Thermostat Settings: Verify thermostat settings are correct; set the temperature higher than the room temperature.
- Ignitor Function: Listen for the ignitor clicking. If absent, test or replace it.
Poor Heating Performance
Poor heating performance can leave you cold and uncomfortable. Address these areas:
- Clogged Filters: Clean or replace filters regularly to maintain airflow.
- Blocked Vents: Ensure vents are clear of obstructions like dust or debris.
- Faulty Thermostat: Test thermostat accuracy with a thermometer. Replace if readings differ significantly.
- Dirt in Burners: Inspect burners for dirt or rust. Clean them to improve combustion efficiency.
Unusual Noises
Unusual noises can indicate problems within the furnace. Pay attention to these sounds:
- Buzzing: This may signal electrical issues. Check wiring and connections for loose components.
- Banging: Banging noises often come from expanding metal, typically during startup. If persistent, inspect the blower motor.
- Squeaking: Squeaking suggests wear in the blower motor bearings or a loose belt. Lubricate or replace parts as needed.
- Rattling: Rattling could indicate loose screws or mounting. Tighten these to reduce noise.
By addressing these common issues proactively, you enhance the functionality and reliability of your Atwood 8535 furnace, ensuring a warmer and more comfortable RV experience.
Troubleshooting Steps
Follow these troubleshooting steps to resolve issues with your Atwood 8535 furnace effectively.
Checking the Thermostat
First, confirm that your thermostat is correctly set. Set it to a higher temperature than the current room temperature. If the furnace doesn’t ignite, check for the following:
- Calibration: Ensure the thermostat is calibrated properly. An inaccurate reading can prevent the furnace from turning on.
- Power Supply: Make sure the thermostat has power. If it operates on batteries, replace them with fresh ones.
- Wiring Issues: Inspect the wiring for loose connections or damage. Secure any loose wires and repair or replace damaged ones.
Inspecting the Electric Components
Next, examine the electric components to ensure proper operation. Focus on these key areas:
- Blower Motor: Listen for unusual sounds. If the blower motor doesn’t run, check the power supply and connections to the motor.
- Control Board: Look for burned components or corrosion on the control board. If found, it may require replacement.
- Fuses: Inspect the fuses related to the furnace. Replace any blown fuses, as they can disrupt the furnace’s functionality.
Examining the Gas Supply
Finally, verify the gas supply to your furnace. Follow these steps:
- Propane Level: Check the propane tank level to ensure there’s enough fuel. Refill if necessary.
- Gas Valve: Confirm that the gas valve is open. If it’s closed, turn it to the open position and listen for gas flow.
- Line Inspection: Look for leaks or kinks in the gas line. A leak can inhibit gas flow. If you find any issues, consider consulting a professional for repairs.
By addressing these areas, you can troubleshoot common issues with your Atwood 8535 furnace effectively, ensuring it operates efficiently during your RV travels.
Maintenance Tips for Atwood 8535 Furnace
Maintaining your Atwood 8535 furnace keeps it running efficiently and extends its lifespan. Regular upkeep helps prevent common issues and ensures warm, comfortable travels.
Regular Cleaning
Clean your furnace regularly to enhance its performance. Dust and debris can block airflow, which affects heating efficiency.
- Remove Grilles: Start by removing the furnace’s front grilles.
- Vacuum Internals: Use a vacuum to eliminate dust and dirt inside the ductwork and around the blower.
- Inspect Filters: Check and replace the filters as needed. Clogged filters restrict airflow, impacting performance.
- Clean Burners: Inspect and clean the burners to prevent carbon buildup that can cause ignition issues.
Perform these cleaning tasks every month or more frequently, depending on usage.
Seasonal Inspections
Conduct seasonal inspections to identify potential problems. Regular checks help catch issues before they escalate.
- Check Propane Supply: Ensure the propane tank is full and the valve is open before winter starts.
- Test Safety Features: Test the pressure relief valve and verify that all safety components are functioning properly.
- Inspect Wiring: Look for frayed or damaged wires that may disrupt power supply to the furnace.
- Examine Vents: Ensure vents are clear of obstructions, allowing proper airflow for effective heating.
Completing these inspections once at the beginning of each season can prevent issues during peak usage times.
Conclusion
Keeping your Atwood 8535 furnace in top shape can make all the difference during those chilly nights in your RV. By staying proactive with troubleshooting and maintenance, you can avoid many common issues and ensure your furnace runs smoothly.
Don’t hesitate to dive into those basic checks like the propane supply and thermostat settings. Regular cleaning and seasonal inspections will go a long way in extending the life of your furnace.
With a little effort and attention, you’ll enjoy a warm and cozy RV experience no matter where your adventures take you. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Atwood 8535 furnace?
Common issues with the Atwood 8535 furnace include no ignition, poor heating performance, and unusual noises. Troubleshooting these problems typically involves checking propane supply, inspecting power connections, and ensuring vents and filters are clean.
How can I check if my Atwood 8535 furnace is getting propane?
To check the propane supply, ensure the gas valve is open, the propane tank has fuel, and inspect the gas line for leaks. Addressing these factors can help resolve ignition problems.
What maintenance is needed for the Atwood 8535 furnace?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning filters, inspecting vents, vacuuming the internals, and examining burners for carbon buildup. Seasonal checks on propane levels and safety features are also crucial to keeping the furnace running efficiently.
How can I troubleshoot poor heating performance?
For poor heating, clean or replace any clogged filters, ensure vents are unobstructed, and inspect burners for dirt. Additionally, check thermostat settings and test if the thermostat is functioning correctly.
What should I do if my Atwood 8535 furnace makes unusual noises?
Unusual noises like buzzing or banging can indicate various issues. First, ensure the blower motor is working well, and check for loose parts or debris around the furnace. If problems persist, consult a professional for repairs.
How can I ensure my Atwood 8535 furnace is functioning properly?
Regularly check the thermostat settings, inspect wiring for damage, and make sure the blower and control board are operational. Performing seasonal inspections will help catch issues early and ensure proper functionality.
What should I do if there is no ignition in my Atwood 8535 furnace?
If there’s no ignition, check the propane supply, inspect power connections, verify thermostat settings, and test the ignitor function. Addressing these areas can usually resolve ignition issues.
