Rheem Criterion II Gas Furnace Service Manual

The Rheem Criterion II Gas Furnace is a high-efficiency residential heating system featuring advanced combustion technology, electronic ignition, multi-speed blower motor, safety controls, and diagnostic LED indicators. Available in various BTU capacities with AFUE ratings up to 96%. Below are key sections for safety procedures, technical specifications, installation guidelines, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and parts identification.

1. Safety Information 2. Technical Specifications 3. Installation Guidelines 4. Component Identification 5. Start-Up Procedure 6. Operating Instructions 7. Maintenance Procedures 8. Troubleshooting Guide 9. Error Codes 10. Parts List 11. Warranty Information

Safety Information

Critical safety warnings and precautions for service technicians and homeowners.

HazardPrecaution
Gas LeaksUse leak detection solution; never use open flame
Electrical ShockDisconnect power before servicing
Carbon MonoxideEnsure proper ventilation and flue installation
Hot SurfacesAllow unit to cool before servicing
Combustible MaterialsMaintain clearances per installation manual

WARNING! Only qualified technicians should perform service. Always follow local codes and regulations.

Technical Specifications

Installation Guidelines

Proper installation procedures for optimal performance and safety.

  1. Location: Install in approved locations with proper clearances
  2. Venting: Use only approved PVC materials for direct vent systems
  3. Gas Connection: Use pipe joint compound rated for natural/LP gas
  4. Electrical: Follow NEC codes; proper grounding required
  5. Ductwork: Size appropriately for CFM requirements
  6. Condensate Drain: Install trap and route to approved drain

CAUTION! Improper installation may create hazardous conditions and void warranty.

Component Identification

Key components and their functions within the furnace system.

ComponentFunction
Gas ValveControls gas flow to burners
Inducer MotorCreates draft for combustion
Heat ExchangerTransfers heat to air stream
Blower AssemblyCirculates air through system
Control BoardManages furnace operation
Limit SwitchesSafety temperature controls
Pressure SwitchesVerify proper venting
IgniterHot surface ignition device
Flame SensorDetects burner flame

Start-Up Procedure

Step-by-step procedure for initial furnace start-up and commissioning.

  1. Verify all installation requirements are complete
  2. Check gas pressure and adjust if necessary
  3. Verify proper venting operation
  4. Check electrical connections and voltage
  5. Set thermostat to heat mode and raise temperature
  6. Observe ignition sequence and flame characteristics
  7. Measure temperature rise and adjust blower speed
  8. Verify safety controls are functioning properly
  9. Complete start-up checklist and document readings

Operating Instructions

Normal operating characteristics and user controls.

Thermostat Operation: Set to desired temperature; system will cycle automatically.

Blower Operation: Multi-speed motor adjusts airflow based on heating requirements.

Ignition Sequence: Inducer motor starts, pressure switch closes, igniter heats, gas valve opens, flame sensor confirms ignition.

Safety Features: Multiple limit switches, pressure switches, and roll-out switches protect against unsafe conditions.

Maintenance Procedures

Recommended maintenance schedule and procedures.

  1. Monthly: Check air filter; replace if dirty
  2. Annual: Professional inspection and cleaning
  3. Burner Cleaning: Remove and clean burners annually
  4. Heat Exchanger: Inspect for cracks or damage
  5. Blower Assembly: Clean blower wheel and housing
  6. Drain System: Flush condensate trap and lines
  7. Electrical: Check connections and component operation
  8. Venting: Inspect for obstructions or damage

Troubleshooting Guide

Common problems and corrective actions.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No heatThermostat, power, gas supplyCheck thermostat setting, circuit breaker, gas valve
Furnace won't startLimit switch, pressure switchReset limit switch; check pressure switch tubing
Short cyclingDirty filter, airflow restrictionReplace filter; check registers and ductwork
Blower won't stopFan switch, control boardCheck thermostat fan setting; test control board
Unusual noisesMotor bearings, ductworkLubricate motor; check for loose panels or ducts
Pilot/ignition failureIgniter, flame sensorTest igniter; clean flame sensor

Error Codes

LED flash codes and their meanings for diagnostic purposes.

Flash CodeDescriptionAction
1 FlashLimit circuit faultCheck airflow, filter, limit switch
2 FlashesPressure switch stuck openCheck inducer, venting, switch
3 FlashesPressure switch stuck closedCheck switch, wiring, control board
4 FlashesIgnition failureCheck gas, igniter, flame sensor
5 FlashesGas valve circuit faultCheck valve, wiring, control board
6 FlashesBlower faultCheck motor, capacitor, wiring
7 FlashesRoll-out switch faultCheck burners, heat exchanger

Parts List

Common replacement parts and their identification numbers.

Warranty Information

Manufacturer warranty coverage and terms.

Heat Exchanger: 20-year limited warranty

Parts: 5-year limited warranty

Labor: 1-year limited warranty

Registration: Product must be registered within 90 days of installation

Exclusions: Damage from improper installation, misuse, or lack of maintenance

For warranty service, contact Rheem at 1-800-432-8373 or visit www.rheem.com

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