18
Chapter IV – Appliances
1. Furnace
The furnace in your Open Range recreational vehicle does need
some normal maintenance attention, preferably once each spring, just
before you begin your summer camping season.
It’s best to have your selling dealer or a qualified service technician
perform such an inspection. Your dealer may have a “spring special” to
perform such inspections.
Particular attention needs to be given to the following items:
1. Exterior vents must be free from obstructions and properly vented
to the atmosphere, especially “mud dauber” wasp nests.
Do not install screens over the vent for any reason. Screens
will become restricted and cause unsafe furnace operation.
Accessories are being marketed for RV products which we do
not recommend. For your safety, only factory authorized parts
are to be used on your furnace.
!
WARNING
Examine also for any insects which may have entered, built nests
which will cause improper operation. When you find “soot” around your
vent it indicates incomplete combustion or contaminated fuel. If such soot
is present contact a qualified service center.
2. Inside the furnace cabinet:
a. Inspect areas around combustion chamber for any cracks or leaks
causing the flow of exhaust gas being expelled into coach.
b. Inspect and test any propane connections and lines for signs of
leakage.
c. Inspect any and all gaskets for leakage or deterioration. Replace if
damaged. Any furnace is safe only when there is no leakage from
heat chamber.
d. Inspect return air inlet openings to furnace compartment. The
furnace cannot operate if return air is restricted from air flow. DO
NOT store any items around furnace. Return air panel is installed
in front of furnace to prevent storage around furnace. DO NOT
BLOCK this panel.