American Standard Furnace Troubleshooting Manual

The American Standard Furnace is a high-efficiency heating system designed for residential and light commercial applications. This troubleshooting manual covers common issues, diagnostic procedures, safety precautions, and maintenance guidelines for various American Standard furnace models. Below are key sections for safety, common problems, diagnostic steps, maintenance procedures, and technical specifications.

Safety Precautions

Before attempting any troubleshooting or maintenance, ensure proper safety measures are followed.

Common Problems & Symptoms

Typical issues encountered with American Standard furnaces and their observable symptoms.

1. Furnace won't start: No ignition, no fan operation, no response to thermostat.
2. Short cycling: Furnace turns on and off frequently without completing heating cycle.
3. No heat: Thermostat calls for heat but furnace doesn't produce warm air.
4. Insufficient heat: Furnace runs but output air is not warm enough.
5. Blower runs continuously: Fan operates non-stop regardless of thermostat setting.
6. Strange noises: Banging, rattling, squealing, or grinding sounds during operation.
7. Pilot light issues: Pilot won't stay lit or has weak/yellow flame.

WARNING! Gas leaks require immediate professional attention. Evacuate area and call emergency services if gas odor detected.

Diagnostic Procedures

Step-by-step troubleshooting process for common furnace problems.

1. Check thermostat: Ensure set to HEAT mode, temperature above room temp, batteries fresh.
2. Verify power: Check circuit breaker, furnace switch, and emergency shutoff switch.
3. Inspect filter: Replace if dirty or clogged (restricts airflow).
4. Check gas supply: Ensure gas valve is open and pilot light is lit (if applicable).
5. Review error codes: Check control board LED blink codes for specific fault indications.
6. Test safety switches: Verify limit switches, pressure switches, and rollout switches.
7. Inspect flame sensor: Clean if dirty to ensure proper flame detection.

CAUTION! Only qualified technicians should service gas valves, heat exchangers, or electrical components.

Technical Specifications

• Fuel Type: Natural Gas or Propane
• Efficiency Rating: 80% to 98% AFUE depending on model
• BTU Input: 40,000 to 150,000 BTU/hr
• Electrical Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Gas Pressure: Natural Gas: 3.5" WC, Propane: 10" WC
• Vent Types: Single-pipe or dual-pipe PVC venting
• Blower Motor: Multi-speed ECM or PSC motor
• Ignition System: Hot surface ignition or intermittent pilot
• Warranty: 20-year heat exchanger, 5-year parts

Control Panel & Settings

Understanding furnace control board and basic adjustment procedures.

Control Board LED: Flashing patterns indicate system status and error codes. Green = normal operation, Red/Amber = fault condition.

Thermostat Settings: HEAT/COOL/OFF mode, Fan AUTO/ON, Temperature setpoints. DIP Switches: Blower speed adjustments, heating/cooling timing, accessory configurations. Gas Valve: Pressure adjustment screws (qualified technicians only). Limit Switches: Automatic shutoff if temperature exceeds safe limits.

Error Code Interpretation

Common LED flash codes and their meanings for American Standard furnaces.

1. 1 Flash: Pressure switch stuck open
2. 2 Flashes: Pressure switch stuck closed
3. 3 Flashes: Limit circuit fault
4. 4 Flashes: Flame sensed with gas valve off
5. 5 Flashes: Flame rollout switch open
6. 6 Flashes: Ignition proved with no call for heat
7. 7 Flashes: Gas valve circuit fault
8. 8 Flashes: Blower motor fault

Tip: Count LED flashes during 2-minute period for accurate code reading.

Maintenance Procedures

Routine maintenance tasks to ensure optimal furnace performance and longevity.

1. Monthly: Check air filter, inspect vents for obstructions.
2. Seasonal: Replace air filter, test carbon monoxide detectors.
3. Annual: Professional inspection and cleaning of burners, heat exchanger, flue.
4. Biannual: Lubricate blower motor (if required), check belt tension.
5. As needed: Clean flame sensor, check gas pressure, verify safety controls.

WARNING! Annual professional maintenance is recommended for safety and efficiency.

Cleaning & Filter Replacement

Proper cleaning techniques and filter replacement procedures.

Filter Replacement: Turn off power, locate filter compartment, remove old filter, insert new filter with arrow pointing toward blower. Burner Cleaning: Qualified technician only - remove burners, clean ports with brush, reassemble. Blower Cleaning: Vacuum blower wheel and housing, clean motor surfaces. Heat Exchanger: Professional inspection for cracks or corrosion.

Warranty Information

American Standard furnace warranty coverage and registration requirements.

Limited Warranty: 20-year heat exchanger warranty, 5-year parts warranty. Registration: Complete product registration within 60 days of installation for full warranty coverage. Labor: 1-year labor warranty when installed by authorized dealer. Transferability: Warranties are non-transferable to subsequent homeowners. Exclusions: Damage from improper installation, lack of maintenance, or natural disasters.

Troubleshooting Guide

Reset Procedure: Turn thermostat to OFF, turn off power for 30 seconds, restore power, set thermostat to HEAT.

Service Contact: 1-800-992-4998; www.americanstandardair.com