Carrier Gas Furnace Model SC2 Manual

The Carrier SC2 Gas Furnace is a high-efficiency residential heating system designed for reliable performance and energy savings. This model features variable-speed blower technology, electronic ignition, multiple heat stages, and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Suitable for single-family homes and multi-zone applications, the SC2 operates on natural gas with AFUE ratings up to 98.5%. Below are key sections covering safety, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Variable-speed ECM blower motor, hot surface ignitor, stainless steel heat exchanger, integrated control board, pressure switches, flame sensor, and diagnostic LED.

FeatureDescription
Variable-speed blowerProvides consistent airflow and quiet operation
Electronic ignitionHot surface ignitor for reliable startup
Multi-stage heatingTwo-stage gas valve for improved comfort
Diagnostic LEDFlashing codes for troubleshooting
Pressure switchesEnsures proper venting operation
Flame sensorMonitors burner operation
Gas valvePrecise gas flow control
Limit switchesPrevents overheating
Blower door switchSafety interlock
Condensate drainRemoves combustion byproducts

Installation Requirements

Professional installation required. Verify local codes and obtain permits.

  1. Location: Install in dry, clean area with adequate clearance (minimum 24" front, 6" sides, 6" rear).
  2. Gas connection: Use black iron pipe; pressure test for leaks (14" WC natural gas).
  3. Electrical: 120V AC, 15 amp circuit; proper grounding required.
  4. Venting: PVC pipe system per manufacturer specifications.
  5. Combustion air: Ensure adequate fresh air supply.

WARNING! Gas furnaces produce carbon monoxide; proper venting is critical. Only qualified technicians should install.

Initial Setup & Startup

Professional startup procedure required for warranty validation.

  1. Verify installation: Check all connections, clearances, and venting.
  2. Gas pressure: Adjust manifold pressure to 3.5" WC for natural gas.
  3. Electrical: Connect thermostat; set system to HEAT mode.
  4. Startup sequence: Power on; observe ignition sequence; check flame.
  5. Airflow: Adjust blower speed for proper temperature rise (35-65°F).
  6. Combustion analysis: Verify CO levels and efficiency.

CAUTION! Never bypass safety controls. Test carbon monoxide detectors after installation.

Technical Specifications

Controls & Operation

Integrated furnace control board manages all operations. Thermostat compatibility: Conventional and programmable thermostats.

Control Board LED: Steady on = normal operation. Flashing codes indicate specific faults.

Operation sequence: Thermostat calls for heat → inducer motor starts → pressure switch proves draft → hot surface ignitor heats → gas valve opens → flame sensor confirms ignition → blower starts after heat exchanger warms.

Venting & Combustion Air

Direct vent or conventional venting options available.

  1. PVC pipe: Use schedule 40 PVC for vent and intake.
  2. Vent termination: Minimum 12" above ground, 3' from openings.
  3. Combustion air: Two-pipe system recommended for high efficiency.
  4. Slope: Vent pipe should slope back to furnace for condensate drainage.
  5. Clearances: Maintain manufacturer-specified distances from combustible materials.

Tip: Always install carbon monoxide detectors when installing gas appliances.

Maintenance Procedures

Annual professional maintenance recommended for optimal performance.

  1. Air filter: Replace every 1-3 months depending on usage.
  2. Heat exchanger: Inspect for cracks or corrosion annually.
  3. Burners: Clean and inspect for proper flame pattern.
  4. Flame sensor: Clean with emery cloth annually.
  5. Blower assembly: Clean wheel and housing; check motor operation.
  6. Drain system: Clear condensate trap and drain lines.
  7. Venting: Inspect for obstructions or damage.
  8. Electrical: Check all connections and control operation.

WARNING! Turn off gas and electrical power before performing any maintenance.

Safety Features

Multiple safety systems protect against hazardous conditions. Flame rollout switches: Detect improper burner flames. Limit switches: Prevent overheating. Pressure switches: Ensure proper venting. Blower door switch: Disables operation when panel removed.

Care & Maintenance

Keep area around furnace clean and unobstructed. Change filters regularly. Schedule annual professional inspection.

CAUTION! Never store flammable materials near furnace. Keep combustion air vents clear.

Regulatory Information

UL certified. ANSI Z21.47/CSA 2.3 compliant. Meets U.S. Department of Energy efficiency standards. Manufactured to comply with EPA regulations. For support, contact Carrier at 1-800-CARRIER or visit www.carrier.com. Installation must comply with National Fuel Gas Code NFPA 54 and local codes.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Furnace won't startPower, thermostat, door switchCheck circuit breaker; verify thermostat setting; ensure door properly closed.
No heatGas supply, ignitor, flame sensorVerify gas valve on; check for flashing LED codes; clean flame sensor.
Short cyclingDirty filter, limit switchReplace air filter; check for restricted airflow; verify proper temperature rise.
Blower won't stopThermostat, control boardCheck thermostat fan setting; inspect control board operation.
Unusual noisesBlower, inducer, ductworkInspect blower wheel; check inducer motor; examine duct connections.
Error codes flashingVarious system faultsCount LED flashes and refer to service manual for specific code meaning.

Reset: Power cycle furnace by turning off power for 30 seconds then restoring.

Service: 1-800-CARRIER; www.carrier.com

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