Suburban SF 30 Furnace Manual

The Suburban SF 30 is a high-efficiency furnace designed for RV and mobile home applications, featuring 30,000 BTU output, electronic ignition, direct spark ignition system, multi-speed blower, safety shut-off devices, and compatibility with propane/LP gas. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Burner assembly, heat exchanger, multi-speed blower, electronic control board, gas valve, thermostat connections, combustion air intake, exhaust outlet.

FeatureDescription
BTU Output30,000 BTU/hour heating capacity
Ignition SystemDirect spark electronic ignition
Fuel TypePropane/LP gas only
Blower TypeMulti-speed centrifugal blower
Safety FeaturesFlame rollout switch, overheat protection, pressure switch
Voltage12V DC operation
EfficiencyHigh-efficiency heat exchanger design
ExhaustForced draft combustion system
DimensionsCompact design for RV installation
WeightApproximately 28 lbs

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper clearances and ventilation.

  1. Location selection: Choose well-ventilated area with proper clearances (minimum 1" sides, 2" top, 6" front).
  2. Gas connection: Use approved gas line and fittings; pressure test for leaks.
  3. Electrical connection: Connect 12V DC power supply with proper fuse protection.
  4. Vent system: Install approved vent pipe with proper slope and termination.
  5. Thermostat wiring: Connect to compatible RV thermostat system.

WARNING! Installation must be performed by qualified technician. Improper installation can cause fire, explosion, or carbon monoxide poisoning.

First-Time Setup

Complete installation verification before initial startup.

  1. Gas pressure check: Verify inlet and manifold pressures per specifications.
  2. Vent system inspection: Ensure proper installation and clearances.
  3. Electrical verification: Check polarity and voltage at furnace connections.
  4. Initial startup: Follow lighting instructions; observe ignition sequence.
  5. Performance check: Verify proper flame, airflow, and temperature rise.

CAUTION! Always test for gas leaks with soap solution before operation. Never use open flame to check for leaks.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Primary control through RV thermostat. Internal controls include gas valve, control board, safety switches.

Thermostat Settings: Heat/Off mode selection, temperature setpoint, fan control.

Internal Controls: Control board manages ignition sequence, blower operation, safety monitoring. Gas valve regulates fuel flow. Pressure switch verifies proper venting. Flame rollout switch detects unsafe combustion conditions. Overheat protector prevents excessive temperatures.

Connecting Gas Supply

Use approved gas line materials and proper connection techniques.

  1. Turn off all gas appliances and main gas supply.
  2. Use approved flexible gas connector or rigid pipe.
  3. Apply pipe compound to male threads only (not on first two threads).
  4. Connect to furnace gas valve using proper wrench.
  5. Pressure test system at 14" W.C. for 10 minutes (no drop).
  6. Check all connections with soap solution for leaks.

Tip: Always use two wrenches when connecting gas lines to prevent damaging valves.

Operating Procedures

Normal operation through thermostat control.

  1. Set thermostat to desired temperature in HEAT mode.
  2. Furnace will initiate startup sequence: blower prepurge, ignition trial, main burner operation.
  3. Normal shutdown: Thermostat satisfied - gas valve closes, blower continues for cool-down period.
  4. Safety shutdown: Any safety device activation will shut down furnace requiring manual reset.
  5. Seasonal shutdown: Turn off gas supply and electrical power when not in use.

WARNING! If you smell gas, immediately turn off gas supply, evacuate area, and contact qualified service technician.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures safe and efficient operation.

FrequencyMaintenance Task
MonthlyCheck vent system for obstructions
SeasonalInspect burner and heat exchanger
AnnualProfessional inspection and cleaning
AnnualCheck gas pressure and connections
AnnualClean blower wheel and housing
As neededReplace air filter

Care & Cleaning

Turn off gas and electrical power before cleaning.

  1. Exterior: Wipe with damp cloth; mild detergent if needed.
  2. Burner assembly: Remove and clean with soft brush; no liquids.
  3. Heat exchanger: Vacuum debris; inspect for cracks or damage.
  4. Blower: Clean wheel and housing; check for proper rotation.
  5. Vent system: Inspect for obstructions; clean if necessary.

CAUTION! Never operate furnace without proper reassembly after cleaning. All covers must be securely in place.

Regulatory Information

ANSI Z21.44/CSA 2.3: Certified for recreational vehicle use. CSA International: Listed for US and Canada. Must be installed in accordance with NFPA 501C (RV standards) and NFPA 54 (gas code). For technical support, contact Suburban Manufacturing Company at 1-800-782-2201 or visit www.suburbanrvfurnace.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No ignitionGas supply, spark electrodeCheck gas valve; verify spark at electrode; clean/replace electrode.
Blower runs but no heatGas valve, control boardCheck gas pressure; verify valve operation; test control board output.
Short cyclingOverheat, pressure switchCheck airflow; clean filter; verify venting; reset overheat protector.
No blower operationMotor, control board, thermostatCheck voltage to motor; test control board; verify thermostat call.
Gas odorLeaks, combustion issuesImmediately shut down; check for leaks; verify proper combustion.
Error codes (blinking LED)Various safety tripsCount flashes; refer to diagnostic chart in service manual.

Reset Procedure: Turn off thermostat, wait 5 minutes, restore power, reset thermostat.

Service: 1-800-782-2201; www.suburbanrvfurnace.com

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