03 Heating & Air Conditioning

Furnace

The Wayfarer is equipped with a forced-air furnace fuel by LP gas. The furnace is controlled by the wall-mounted thermostats (Figure 3-1) located inside the motorhome. These thermostats control both the heating and air conditioning for the motorhome.

In the gas-heating mode, the furnace heats air which, in turn, is circulated through ductwork in the floor of the motorhome. If any obstruction(s) block the floor vent(s) or air-return register, then the furnace will not function properly. Any items stored under the cabinets should be carefully stowed to prevent damaging or crushing the furnace ducting or blocking the warm-air return.

NOTE: When a furnace is being used for the first time, there may be an initial off” of manufacturing compounds or residues left on the heat the ductwork which could produce odors, fumes, and possibly some smoke. This is normal and should not cause concern, unless it persists for an excessive amount of time.

To minimize the after-effects of this “burn-off” process, the initial use of the furnace should be done with all the doors and windows open to permit normal air circulation to dissipate these odors and fumes.

For routine operation of the furnace, set the thermostat to the desired temperature setting and then turn the thermostat to gas heat. In about a minute, the furnace should begin to operate and warm or hot air should be coming through the ductwork.

To shut down the furnace, turn the thermostat to the “off” position. Even though the thermostat may be turned “off,” the furnace system will continue to run for about a minute or so to permit a gradual cooldown of the heating system which is normal.

On a regular basis, thoroughly clean the complete furnace and air-tube passageways to remove dust, lint, and any other possible obstructions. Leak-test the entire LP gas system at least annually. Also check and clean the air-blower system annually.

(NOTE: These tasks should be done by a certified qualified technician).

NOTE: Any access hatches to the furnace are for authorized service personnel only, as there are no user serviceable parts on the furnace. Accordingly, do not attempt to tamper with the interior of the furnace.

Before the beginning of each travel season, the furnace must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected. Any obstructions, debris, or lint, which might obstruct free airflow or impede the operation of the air circulation system, must be removed. For example, accumulated dust or lint could possibly obstruct the orifices for the pilot light or might accumulate on the blower blades and unbalance the operation of the blower. Additionally, any debris in the ductwork, when heated by the furnace, could emit unpleasant odors or possibly become a fire hazard.

The furnace system must be periodically cleaned. Annual cleaning is recommended unless the motorcoach is subjected to dust levels significantly greater than average, in which case more frequent cleaning is recommended. The Owner’s Information Package provides recommended cleaning tips and procedures. When needed, a more thorough cleaning must be performed by a qualified service technician.

 

Air Conditioning System

The factory-installed air-conditioning system is designed for 120 VAC power supplied either from the external power cord or from the generator. For the best cooling scenarios, park the motorcoach in a shaded location whenever possible and close drapes on the windows exposed to direct sunlight.

The air-conditioned, cooled air is emitted through “chill grill” vents, which are located in the center of the coach. The return air vents have a filter that prevents dust from flowing back through the air conditioning system. The return filters can be easily removed and cleaned with warm water and a mild cleaning solution. To remove the filter, simply pull the vent down and lift the filter from inside the opening.

NOTE: The air conditioning system is the major consumption device of electrical power in the motorhome. When this system is being used in an RV park, cumulative use of these air conditioning systems by the resident vehicles can create a bigger demand for electrical power than is actually available. Accordingly, at times a "brown-out" condition may arise. This is when the air conditioner voltage normally available drops to a lesser value (e.g., 10-20% or more below normal).

"Brown-out" conditions cause appliances to draw greater currents to make up for the reduced voltage, thereby causing circuit breakers to trip or fuses to blow. Under such conditions, your own motorhome is not at fault. Simply reset your breakers and/or replace your fuses. Should such conditions continue, you may wish to reduce the electrical load (In this case turn "OFF" the air conditioning system for a period of time) or start the motorhomes generator.

Thermostat Controls

Press the Up/Down buttons on the thermostat buttons to set the desired temperature for the motorhome.

For more detailed instructions, please consult the the thermostat literature in the Owner's Information Package.

 

Heap Pump Controls

To activate the heat optional pump, set the thermostat to ELEC HEAT and select desired temperature.

NOTE: If the setting on the thermostat and the room temperature are more than five degrees apart, the gas furnace will automatically turn ON with the heat pump. Once the room temperature reaches the desired level specified on the thermostat setting, the furnace will cut off and the heat pump will maintain the heating of the coach.

NOTE: The heat pump is controlled by the thermostat located in the bedroom area of the motorhome. 

If the external temperature falls to 35-38 degrees Fahrenheit, the heat pump will become inoperative and the gas furnace will begin to operate automatically.