Trane Propane Furnace Ignition Problem


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Old 01-24-14, 07:29 AM
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Trane Propane Furnace Ignition Problem

Have an ignition problem with Trane propane furnace. Runs through starting cycle correctly but propane will only ignite if the intake is partially covered. I can get the furnace to light if I remove the intake pipe and cover partially with my hand. furnace is about 10 years old - propane tank is nearly full so supply should be fine - colder than normal
 
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Old 01-24-14, 08:23 AM
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When the furnace lights how does the flame look? Good and strong or weak and lazy? Do you have a gas stove? If so turn on all the burners high at the same time and see if the flames look normal. If the furnace or your stove flames seem weak I just had a service call (we were 9f) and the regulator at the propane tank was partially frozen and only letting a small amount of gas through.

It would also help the pro's if you can provide the model number of your furnace. 10 year old Trane helps a bit but they made a lot of different furnace models.
 
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Old 01-24-14, 08:51 AM
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Thanks for helping out. Trane XE90 model - the flame doesn't look too weak. Don't have stove - hot water heater, dryer - neither are on but will try. Thought about the propane regulator as well - put a heating pad over it last night. Might of helped - not sure but still need to partially cover the intake to get the furnace to light. 6F this AM
 
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Old 01-24-14, 08:56 AM
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Clarification - put the heating pad at the regulator next to the house - is there another regulator at the propane tank - tank is buried.
 
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Old 01-24-14, 12:09 PM
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There is usually a regulator right on top of the tank. Gas expanding inside the regulator cools it so even though your's may be below the frost line, heavy gas usage and propane contaminated with water can cause it to freeze. Add in colder than usual temperatures and any water in the propane can be a problem. If that turns out to be the case contact your propane supplier. I think they can put methanol in the tank to absorb the water.
 
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Old 01-24-14, 12:56 PM
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Thanks - have a call in now to the propane supplier. Will troubleshoot outside first - do you have any ideas for possible causes/fixes if it is related to the furnace?

this has been helpful -I will let you know
 
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Old 01-24-14, 06:04 PM
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No problems with gas pressure - furnace still needs to have intake partially blocked to ignite - any ideas out there?
 
 

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