1. Introduction
This instruction manual provides essential information for the safe and effective installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Lennox 32M8801 OEM Replacement Furnace Control Board. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with any installation or service to ensure proper function and safety.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Improper installation, adjustment, alteration, service, or maintenance can cause property damage, personal injury, or loss of life. Installation and service must be performed by a qualified installer, service agency, or gas supplier.
- Always disconnect electrical power to the furnace before installing or servicing the control board.
- Ensure all wiring connections comply with local and national electrical codes.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during installation and service.
- Do not bypass any safety devices.
- Verify proper operation after installation and before restoring power to the furnace.
3. Product Overview
The Lennox 32M8801 is an OEM replacement furnace control board designed to manage the operational sequences of your furnace. It controls critical functions such as ignition, blower motor operation, and various safety features, ensuring efficient and safe heating.
Figure 1: The Lennox 32M8801 OEM Replacement Furnace Control Board. This board is responsible for managing the furnace's operational sequences, including ignition, fan control, and safety monitoring.
4. Installation (Setup)
Replacing a furnace control board requires careful attention to detail. It is recommended that this procedure be performed by a qualified technician.
Preparation:
- Disconnect Power: Turn off all electrical power to the furnace at the main service panel. Verify power is off using a voltage tester.
- Access Control Board: Open the furnace access panel to locate the existing control board.
- Document Connections: Before disconnecting any wires, take clear photographs of all wiring connections to the old board. Label each wire with masking tape or a marker, noting its terminal location. This step is crucial for correct re-installation.
Removal of Old Board:
- Carefully disconnect all wires from the old control board, referring to your documented connections.
- Unmount the old control board from the furnace chassis. Note how it was secured (screws, clips, etc.).
Installation of New Board:
Figure 2: Comparison of an older furnace control board (left) and the new Lennox 32M8801 replacement board (right). Note potential differences in layout and size, which may require adjustments during mounting.
- Mount New Board: The new 32M8801 board may not be identical in size or mounting points to the original. Use the provided mounting bracket (if included) or drill new holes as necessary to securely fasten the new board. Ensure it is stable and not touching any metal surfaces that could cause a short circuit.
- Connect Wiring: Reconnect all wires to the new control board according to your photographs and labels. Double-check each connection for accuracy and tightness. Refer to any included wiring diagrams or schematics specific to the 32M8801 board.
- Verify Connections: Visually inspect all connections to ensure they are correct and secure.
Post-Installation:
- Restore Power: Close the furnace access panel and restore electrical power to the furnace.
- Test Operation: Initiate a heating cycle to verify that the furnace operates correctly. Observe the ignition sequence, blower operation, and ensure no error codes are displayed.
- Check for Leaks: If gas lines were disturbed, check for gas leaks using a soap solution.
5. Operation
The Lennox 32M8801 control board is designed to operate automatically once installed and powered. It receives signals from the thermostat and other sensors to initiate and manage the furnace's heating cycle. This includes:
- Ignition Control: Manages the sequence for igniting the main burners.
- Blower Control: Activates and deactivates the indoor blower motor for heat distribution and cooling (if applicable).
- Safety Monitoring: Continuously monitors various safety sensors (e.g., flame sensor, limit switches) to ensure safe operation and will shut down the furnace if a fault is detected.
- Diagnostic Codes: Provides diagnostic fault codes via an LED indicator to assist in troubleshooting. Refer to your furnace's specific manual for interpretation of these codes.
6. Maintenance
The Lennox 32M8801 control board itself requires no routine maintenance. However, regular maintenance of the overall furnace system is crucial for its longevity and efficient operation. This includes:
- Annual professional furnace inspection and tune-up.
- Regular replacement of air filters.
- Keeping the area around the furnace clear of obstructions.
- Ensuring all electrical connections remain clean and tight during routine furnace checks.
7. Troubleshooting
If your furnace is experiencing issues after control board replacement, consider the following common troubleshooting steps. Always disconnect power before inspecting internal components.
- No Power: Check circuit breakers and ensure the furnace switch is on. Verify all power connections to the board are secure.
- Furnace Not Starting: Check thermostat settings. Ensure all safety switches (e.g., door switch) are engaged. Look for diagnostic LED codes on the control board and consult your furnace manual for their meaning.
- Blower Not Operating: If the furnace heats but the blower does not come on, check blower motor wiring connections. If the blower runs continuously, check for stuck relays or incorrect thermostat wiring.
- Intermittent Operation: This can often be caused by loose connections or faulty sensors. Re-check all wiring.
If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, it is recommended to contact a qualified HVAC technician for further diagnosis and repair.
8. Specifications
- Model Number: 32M8801 (Replaces Lennox # 32M8801)
- Brand: Lennox
- Product Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 6 inches
- Item Weight: Approximately 13.93 ounces
- Manufacturer: Lennox
- First Available Date: October 9, 2013
9. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding your Lennox 32M8801 Furnace Control Board, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact your seller or the manufacturer directly. Support for installation and troubleshooting should primarily be sought from qualified HVAC professionals.
