Home Garden

My York Propane Heater Will Not Light

York produces combination heating and cooling units that can be converted to propane power. The unit is operated through the use of a thermostat for both heating and cooling and offers a corrosion-resistant heat exchanger and induced-draft combustion exhaustion to help keep the heater running well for an extended period. However, if the York heater does not light, some troubleshooting is needed to help identify the problem.

Things You'll Need

  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Water
  • Philips screwdriver
  • Clean cloth(s)
  • Wire brush
  • Compressed air
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn the thermostat to “Heat” instead of “Fan” as the “Fan” setting signals the York unit to run at cooling speeds. Adjust the thermostat to a warm air temperature at least 10 degrees higher than the current outdoor temperature.

    • 2

      Check the main power switch on the York unit and move the power switch to the “On” position. Examine the propane tank to verify there is adequate propane present. Replace or refill the tank if necessary. Close the propane valve slowly, and re-open the valve slowly to reset the valve.

    • 3

      Disconnect power to the unit and remove the filter from the main compartment. Clean the filter with soapy water and rinse well if the filter is marked “Permanent,” or replace the filter if it is marked “Disposable.”

    • 4

      Open all registers in the home, and keep each register free of obstructions that may limit air flow to or from the heater.

    • 5

      Inspect the burners and allow the heater to cool completely before removing the burner assembly. Carefully apply hot water along the top of the burner in small amounts and use a clean, dry cloth to clean the burner. Take out the screws that hold the restrictor plate to the tube sheet, and use a long wire brush to clean out the interior of each heat exchanger. Brush the interior of the restrictor plate, and wipe the blower wheel with a clean cloth. Use a can of compressed air to blow all brushed and cleaned areas to remove any remaining debris, and reassemble the heater.

    • 6

      Turn the thermostat to the lowest setting and leave the furnace power off. Push the manual gas switch to “Off” and wait five minutes. Smell carefully for rotten egg scent, which indicates a propane gas leak. If you smell something bad, leave the home and call emergency services. If there is no scent, move the manual gas switch to the “On” position, and close the main access panel. Turn the furnace to “On” and set the thermostat to the appropriate setting.