Rheem 80 Plus Furnace Manual

The Rheem 80 Plus Furnace is a high-efficiency gas furnace with AFUE ratings of 80% or higher, featuring advanced heat exchanger technology, electronic ignition system, variable-speed blower motor, multi-speed operation, built-in diagnostic controls, safety shut-off features, and compatibility with standard thermostat systems. Designed for residential heating applications with natural gas or propane capability. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-efficiency heat exchanger, electronic ignition system, variable-speed blower, diagnostic control board, gas valve, pressure switches, flame sensor, and filter compartment.

FeatureDescription
Heat ExchangerDurable stainless steel construction for maximum efficiency
Electronic IgnitionHot surface igniter for reliable startup
Variable-Speed BlowerAdjustable airflow for optimal comfort and efficiency
Diagnostic ControlsLED status lights for troubleshooting
Gas ValvePrecise gas flow regulation
Pressure SwitchesSafety monitoring of combustion air flow
Flame SensorMonitors burner operation
Filter CompartmentStandard 1-inch or 4-inch media filter capability
Multi-Speed OperationAdjustable blower speeds for different heating needs
Safety Shut-offAutomatic shut-off in case of malfunction

Installation Requirements

Professional installation recommended. Verify local codes and obtain permits.

  1. Location: Install in dry, well-ventilated area with proper clearances.
  2. Venting: Properly size and install vent pipes according to manufacturer specifications.
  3. Gas Connection: Use approved gas piping materials; pressure test for leaks.
  4. Electrical: Connect to dedicated 120V circuit with proper grounding.
  5. Ductwork: Ensure proper sizing and sealing of supply/return ducts.

WARNING! Gas furnaces produce carbon monoxide; proper venting is critical. Installation must comply with all local codes.

First-Time Setup

After installation, perform initial startup procedure.

  1. Verify all connections: Gas, electrical, venting, and ductwork.
  2. Install air filter: Ensure proper size and orientation.
  3. Set thermostat: Program desired temperature settings.
  4. Power on: Switch furnace power on at unit and electrical panel.
  5. Test operation: Initiate heating cycle and verify proper operation.
  6. Check airflow: Ensure adequate airflow from all registers.

CAUTION! Only qualified HVAC technicians should perform initial startup and testing.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access control board via front panel. Diagnostic LEDs indicate system status.

Control Board: POWER switch, diagnostic LED lights, dip switch settings for blower speeds.

Thermostat Settings: HEAT/COOL/OFF mode, temperature setpoint, fan AUTO/ON. Blower Speeds: Adjustable via dip switches for heating and continuous fan operation. Diagnostic Codes: LED flash patterns indicate specific error conditions. Safety Controls: Limit switches, pressure switches, flame rollout protection.

Connecting Thermostat

Compatible with standard 24V thermostats. Follow wiring diagram for proper connections.

  1. Turn off power to furnace at electrical panel.
  2. Remove thermostat cover and identify wire connections.
  3. Match wires to terminals: R (power), W (heat), G (fan), C (common).
  4. Secure connections and replace cover.
  5. Restore power and test thermostat operation.

Tip: Use compatible thermostat for optimal performance; programmable models recommended for energy savings.

Operating Procedures

Normal operation controlled by thermostat settings.

  1. Set thermostat to HEAT mode and desired temperature.
  2. Furnace will initiate startup sequence: inducer motor, pressure switch verification, igniter warm-up, gas valve opening.
  3. Burner ignition confirmed by flame sensor.
  4. Blower motor activates after heat exchanger warm-up period.
  5. System cycles off when thermostat setpoint reached.
  6. For continuous fan operation, set thermostat fan to ON position.

WARNING! Never attempt to manually override safety controls. If furnace fails to start, consult troubleshooting section.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

FrequencyMaintenance Task
MonthlyCheck/replace air filter
AnnuallyProfessional inspection and cleaning
AnnuallyCheck heat exchanger for cracks
AnnuallyClean burners and flame sensor
AnnuallyVerify gas pressure and combustion
AnnuallyInspect vent system for obstructions
AnnuallyCheck electrical connections
AnnuallyLubricate motor if required

Care & Cleaning

Turn off power before any cleaning. Keep area around furnace clear and clean.

  1. Air Filter: Replace every 1-3 months depending on usage and environment.
  2. Exterior: Wipe with dry cloth; avoid water or cleaning chemicals.
  3. Vents: Keep intake and exhaust vents clear of debris and snow.
  4. Ductwork: Professional cleaning recommended every 3-5 years.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air to clean internal components; may damage sensitive electronics.

Regulatory Information

UL listed and ANSI certified. Complies with U.S. Department of Energy efficiency standards. Manufactured to meet or exceed ASHRAE standards. For natural gas operation: ANSI Z21.47; for propane operation: ANSI Z21.47. Copyright © Rheem Manufacturing Company. All rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.rheem.com or contact 1-800-432-8373.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Furnace won't startPower, thermostat, gas supplyCheck circuit breaker, thermostat settings, gas valve
No heatPilot/ignition, filterCheck for ignition failure; replace dirty air filter
Short cyclingFilter, limit switchReplace filter; check for blocked vents or dirty filter
Blower doesn't runMotor, capacitor, switchCheck blower motor and capacitor; verify limit switch
Unusual noisesMotor, bearings, ductsInspect blower wheel; check for loose components
Error codes flashingVarious system faultsRefer to diagnostic chart in service manual

Reset: Turn power off for 30 seconds, then restore. If problem persists, call professional service.

Service: 1-800-432-8373; www.rheem.com

Rheem 80 Plus Furnace Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025