1996 Escaper Damon Propane Furnace Manual

The 1996 Escaper Damon Propane Furnace is a reliable heating system designed for recreational vehicles, featuring propane combustion, electronic ignition, variable heat output, thermostat control, safety shut-off valves, combustion air intake, exhaust venting, and maintenance access panels. Operating on standard propane tanks with 12V DC power requirement. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation Requirements 3. Initial Setup & Operation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Venting System 7. Maintenance Procedures 9. Safety Features 10. Care & Cleaning 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Propane burner assembly, Electronic ignition system, Heat exchanger, Blower motor, Thermostat control, Safety shut-off valve, Combustion chamber, Exhaust vent.

FeatureDescription
Propane burnerHigh-efficiency combustion chamber
Electronic ignitionPilotless spark ignition system
Heat exchangerStainless steel construction
Blower motorVariable speed for heat distribution
Thermostat controlManual temperature regulation
Safety shut-off valveAutomatic gas shut-off if flame fails
Combustion air intakeExternal fresh air supply
Exhaust ventRoof-mounted venting system
Maintenance accessRemovable front panel
Power requirement12V DC operation

Installation Requirements

Professional installation recommended. Ensure proper clearances and venting.

  1. Location: Install in well-ventilated area with proper clearances to combustible materials.
  2. Venting: Connect to approved roof vent system; ensure proper slope and sealing.
  3. Gas connection: Use approved propane gas line with shut-off valve.
  4. Electrical: Connect to 12V DC power source with proper fuse protection.
  5. Testing: Perform leak test and combustion efficiency check.

WARNING! Propane is flammable; installation must comply with local codes. Use licensed professional for installation.

Initial Setup & Operation

Before first use, ensure proper installation and perform safety checks.

  1. Gas supply: Open propane tank valve; check for leaks with soap solution.
  2. Power: Ensure 12V DC power is connected and functioning.
  3. Thermostat: Set to desired temperature; system will ignite automatically.
  4. Operation: Listen for ignition sequence; blower will start once heat is generated.
  5. Shutdown: Turn thermostat to lowest setting; system will cool down before shutting off.

CAUTION! Never operate without proper venting. Ensure carbon monoxide detector is installed and functioning.

Technical Specifications

Controls and Settings

Thermostat control: Manual dial with temperature settings. System includes built-in safety controls.

Operation Sequence: Thermostat call for heat → Spark ignition → Gas valve opens → Flame detection → Blower activation → Heat distribution → Thermostat satisfied → Gas valve closes → Blower cool-down.

Settings: Temperature range 50°F to 85°F. Fan delay settings for optimal heat distribution. Safety lockout feature after three failed ignition attempts.

Venting System

Required vertical venting through roof with approved vent cap.

  1. Vent pipe: Use only approved 3-inch diameter vent pipe.
  2. Clearances: Maintain 1-inch clearance to combustible materials.
  3. Roof penetration: Use approved roof flashing and storm collar.
  4. Vent cap: Install approved rain cap to prevent moisture entry.

Tip: Check vent system annually for obstructions or damage.

Maintenance Procedures

Annual maintenance required for safe and efficient operation.

  1. Burner cleaning: Remove and clean burner assembly with soft brush.
  2. Heat exchanger: Inspect for cracks or corrosion; vacuum if needed.
  3. Blower motor: Lubricate bearings if required; clean fan blades.
  4. Vent system: Inspect and clean vent pipe and cap.
  5. Gas valve: Test operation and check for leaks.
  6. Electrical: Check wiring connections and fuse condition.

WARNING! Disconnect power and gas supply before performing maintenance. Use qualified technician for complex repairs.

Safety Features

Multiple safety systems: Flame rollout switch, Overheat protection, Pressure switch, Ignition lockout, Gas valve safety shut-off.

Care & Cleaning

Regular cleaning maintains efficiency and safety. Use soft brush and vacuum for interior cleaning.

CAUTION! Never use water or liquid cleaners on electrical components. Keep area around furnace clear of combustible materials.

Regulatory Information

ANSI Z21.44: Certified for recreational vehicle use. CSA International approved. Propane installation must comply with NFPA 58. For technical support, contact Damon Corporation or authorized service centers. Manufactured to meet 1996 RV industry standards.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No ignitionPower/gas supplyCheck 12V power; verify gas valve open; check propane tank level.
Blower not workingMotor/thermostatCheck thermostat setting; test blower motor; inspect wiring.
Insufficient heatAirflow/gas pressureClean filters; check venting; verify proper gas pressure.
Furnace cycles offOverheat/safety switchCheck airflow restrictions; reset rollout switch; clean heat exchanger.
Gas odorLeaks/combustionImmediately shut off gas; check for leaks; ensure proper venting.

Reset: Turn thermostat to lowest setting, wait 5 minutes, then reset to desired temperature.

Service: Contact authorized Damon service center for professional repairs.

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