Atwood Hydro Flame Furnace Manual

The Atwood Hydro Flame Furnace is a high-efficiency heating system designed for RV and mobile applications, featuring electronic ignition, multiple heat settings, built-in safety controls, thermostat compatibility, easy maintenance access, and durable construction. Operating on 12V DC power with propane fuel source, it provides reliable heating in various conditions. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Thermostat 7. Operating Procedures 8. Safety Features 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Burner assembly, blower motor, control board, thermostat connection, propane inlet, exhaust vent, combustion air intake.

FeatureDescription
Electronic ignitionNo standing pilot light for improved safety
Multi-speed blowerAdjustable airflow for optimal heating
Thermostat compatibleWorks with standard RV thermostats
Safety shut-offAutomatic shut-off if flame fails
Propane connectionStandard 3/8" flare fitting
12V DC operationPowered by RV electrical system
Heat settingsLow/Medium/High heat output
Exhaust systemSealed combustion chamber
Maintenance accessEasy removal of burner assembly
LED status lightsDiagnostic indicators for troubleshooting

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Ensure proper ventilation area.

  1. Mount furnace: Secure to floor or wall using provided brackets.
  2. Connect propane line: Use approved propane hose and fittings.
  3. Wire electrical: Connect 12V DC power and thermostat wires.
  4. Install venting: Attach exhaust and intake vents according to specifications.
  5. Test for leaks: Use leak detection solution on all propane connections.

WARNING! Propane is flammable; ensure all connections are tight and leak-free. Install carbon monoxide detector nearby.

First-Time Setup

Power on furnace; follow initial startup procedure.

  1. Check propane supply: Ensure tank valve is open and system is purged.
  2. Set thermostat: Turn to desired temperature setting.
  3. Initial ignition: System will attempt ignition sequence automatically.
  4. Adjust blower speed: Set appropriate airflow for your application.
  5. Test safety features: Verify automatic shut-off functions properly.

CAUTION! Allow proper clearance around furnace. Keep combustible materials away from unit.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via thermostat or manual override switch. Control Board: Power switch, reset button, diagnostic LEDs.

Thermostat Settings: Temperature control, fan mode (Auto/On), system mode (Heat/Off).

Blower Speed: Low/Medium/High settings for different heating requirements. Ignition Sequence: Automatic spark and gas valve operation. Safety Controls: High limit switch, flame sensor, pressure switch. Diagnostic Lights: Green (normal operation), Red (error/fault condition).

Connecting Thermostat

Standard 2-wire thermostat connection: Red (power) and White (heat call).

  1. Turn off power to furnace before wiring.
  2. Connect thermostat wires to control board terminals.
  3. Match wire colors to appropriate terminals.
  4. Secure connections and replace cover.
  5. Restore power and test operation.

Tip: Use thermostat with furnace compatibility; consult wiring diagram for specific models.

Operating Procedures

Normal heating operation with automatic controls.

  1. Startup: Set thermostat above room temperature.
  2. Ignition sequence: Blower starts, then spark ignition, gas valve opens.
  3. Flame establishment: Burner lights, flame sensor confirms operation.
  4. Heating cycle: Blower circulates warm air until thermostat satisfied.
  5. Shutdown: Gas valve closes, blower continues for cool-down period.
  6. Restart: Cycle repeats when thermostat calls for heat.

WARNING! Never bypass safety controls. If furnace fails to ignite after 3 attempts, wait 5 minutes before retrying.

Safety Features

Flame Rollout Switch: Shuts off gas if flame escapes combustion chamber. High Limit Switch: Turns off burner if overheating detected. Pressure Switch: Ensures proper venting before ignition. Flame Sensor: Confirms burner ignition; shuts off gas if no flame.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Annual maintenance recommended. Turn off power and gas before servicing.

  1. Clean burner assembly: Remove and clean with compressed air.
  2. Inspect flame sensor: Clean with emery cloth if dirty.
  3. Check vent system: Ensure no obstructions in exhaust or intake.
  4. Lubricate blower motor: If required by specific model.
  5. Test safety controls: Verify proper operation of all safety switches.

CAUTION! Use only approved replacement parts. Never operate with cover removed.

Regulatory Information

CSA/UL approved for RV use. Complies with ANSI Z21.44 standards for gas-fired heaters. Manufactured to meet RVIA requirements. For technical support, contact Atwood Customer Service at 1-800-555-HEAT or visit www.atwoodmobile.com. Serial number located on rating plate inside access panel.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No ignitionPower/gas supplyCheck 12V power; verify propane supply; inspect spark electrode.
Blower runs, no heatGas valve/ignitionCheck gas valve operation; verify spark; clean flame sensor.
Furnace short cyclesOverheating/airflowClean air filter; check vents for obstruction; verify proper clearance.
Error code flashingSystem faultCount flashes; refer to diagnostic chart in service manual.
Poor heating performanceAirflow/ventingClean burner; check ductwork; verify proper vent installation.
Unusual odorsDust/debrisClean combustion chamber; check for animal nests in vents.

Reset Procedure: Turn thermostat off, wait 5 minutes, then restart.

Service: 1-800-555-HEAT; www.atwoodmobile.com

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