Troubleshooting for a Propane Forced Air Heater

Check the forced air heater power cord and plug into a live electrical outlet if the heater will not turn on. Reset the circuit breaker if needed and contact the forced air heater manufacturer if the power cord appears damaged or broken. Do not use the heater if you suspect the cord is damaged.

Make sure there is an adequate propane supply in the tank if the heater pilot light does not ignite. Close the propane valve in a clockwise motion and then slowly open the valve in a counterclockwise motion. Do not open the valve too quickly, as this will trigger the automatic shut-off system on the valve.

Light the pilot light if necessary by pushing in the automatic valve button and then pushing the ignitor button, which is usually red, one time. Wait 20 seconds to let air out of the hose and then push the igniter button between 3 and 8 times until the heater lights. Continue to hold the automatic valve button in for 30 seconds and then release.

Find the piezo igniter on the base of the forced air heater if the pilot light will not stay lit or does not light. Tighten the piezo igniter carefully to the base of the heater in a clockwise motion.

Inspect the heater inlet and outlet ports for any obstructions and clean as necessary if the heater suddenly shuts down while operating. Note that most forced air heaters will not operate in ambient temperatures of 85 degrees Fahrenheit or more.

Wait for the heater to cool completely, disconnect power and remove the filter (on applicable models) from the fuel fitting on the rear of the burner head. Clean the filter with soapy water and rinse completely, and then set the filter in a dry place until thoroughly dry. Slide the filter back into the heater.