Glen Aire Sw-17 (LP Heater)

[Manorette59]

Hey y'all first time post here, I was wondering if anyone knew why my heater only runs for about 10 seconds. I feel like it is because the pressure might be low in my propane tanks. I have not gotten them filled yet. Has anyone had this issue before? Thanks for the help!

[Boom Sounds]

Is it actually igniting and do you feel warm air?


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[Manorette59]

Yes and yes the heater even runs and I can see the flame for I think I've clocked it for about 10 mins my two theories are that it's a safety concern to run an lp heater for too long (even with the exhaust vent) or that my tanks are low. I was just wondering if anyone else has this problem or if it's just me

[TG Twinkie]

You may have a faulty or dirty thermocouple. This device monitors the flame. If the flame fails the gas valve is closed.

[Manorette59]

Could you show me what part would need to be cleaned or direct me to some resources?

[TG Twinkie]

Can you post a picture of the burner area?
The thermocouple will be located where the end will be in the pilot flame.
It is a cylindrical device about half the diameter of a pencil. It will have a tube attached. This tube is attached to the gas valve at the other end. The tube is about the size of a #12 wire.
It should be very near where the gas lines enter the burner.
Hope this helps.
Look up universal thermocouple on the net to give you an idea of what it looks like.
Type in.

What does a thermocouple look like?

[mehes]

I'm not really sure what vintage your furnace is. Was it built in the 50's or 60's? If so I'd say you have got your money's worth out of it. I like keeping old things running past the point of practicality. You should really take a look at the whole unit. Burner, heat exchanger, etc. and ask yourself if you feel safe sleeping with it running. It may be worth repairing especially if you like the vintage appeal. Don't take any short cuts. Be safe and get the help of someone qualified if you are unsure. Please don't take any offense at anything I've said. I only meant it in a positive sense. I just don't want to see anyone get hurt or damage their rig they spend so much time on.

[Manorette59]

No that makes sense I just got it and we love the way it looks as of now it's not a huge deal since we will be summer living but future endeavors definitely include a renovation of as much as possible

[Manorette59]

And it's a 59

[Mike1997]

It sounds like this problem is something unique to older Airstream trailers but since it was posted under the Motorhome forum, I will share my experience.

My furnace would fire up and run for about 15 seconds then shut down. Plenty of propane and it would get hot while running. It was eventually determined to have a faulty control module which was original 1997 equipment. Ordered a replacement from Dinosour and installed myself. Works like a charm now and got me through an early Montana winter.