Let’s Talk About DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board
As someone deeply entrenched in the world of RV and mobile home systems, I’ve seen firsthand the headaches a malfunctioning furnace can cause. The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board promises a reliable replacement for “Park Model” furnace ignitor boards, offering a fuse-protected, three-try ignition system with added safety features. With the promise of a simple swap and improved performance, it’s a product designed to alleviate frustration and restore essential heating function.
My own journey to this board stemmed from a late-season camping trip where the furnace in our older travel trailer decided to give up the ghost. The biting wind and the prospect of a chilly night pushed me towards finding a dependable solution, leading me to the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board. I was seeking a durable, easy-to-install replacement that would restore the furnace’s functionality without requiring an extensive overhaul of the entire system.
Unboxing the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board, my initial impression was positive. The board appeared well-constructed, with clearly labeled terminals and a neat layout. It felt sturdy and reliable, immediately inspiring confidence in its ability to handle the demands of furnace operation.
Compared to generic replacement boards, the features advertised for this product, like the lockout and retry sequence, seemed like a significant upgrade. A similar board I considered lacked these advanced safety and convenience features. I chose the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board primarily for its enhanced safety mechanisms and the promise of a simplified troubleshooting process, thanks to the bi-color LED indicator.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While the build quality seemed good, the true test would be in the installation and subsequent performance of the board. I was hoping for a straightforward replacement that would quickly restore heat to our camper, but remained prepared for potential challenges given my previous experiences with RV repairs.
Real-World Testing: Putting DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board in my own travel trailer, which is often subjected to varying weather conditions, ranging from damp coastal air to dry desert heat. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the clear labeling on the board and the relatively standard wiring configuration. The board slid into the existing furnace housing with minimal fuss.
During the initial startup, the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board performed exactly as advertised. The furnace went through its three-try ignition sequence, and the bi-color LED provided immediate feedback on the board’s operation. Fortunately, the furnace ignited successfully on the first try, and the camper quickly warmed up.
Ease of use was a standout feature. The clear indicators and simple functionality made troubleshooting much easier compared to the old board. There were no immediate issues, and the furnace cycled on and off smoothly, maintaining a consistent temperature inside the camper.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use during camping trips, the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board continues to hold up admirably. Even during a particularly cold snap with sub-freezing temperatures, the board maintained reliable furnace operation. There have been no signs of malfunction or decreased performance.
Durability seems to be a strong suit. The board shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to temperature fluctuations and vibrations from travel. The components appear to be well-protected, and the connections remain secure.
Maintenance has been minimal. So far, I’ve only needed to visually inspect the board for any signs of damage or loose connections. Cleaning hasn’t been necessary, as the board is relatively well-protected within the furnace housing.
Compared to my previous experiences with unreliable furnace control boards, the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board has exceeded my expectations. Its consistent performance, ease of installation, and added safety features have made it a worthwhile upgrade. It has transformed the furnace from a source of anxiety into a reliable heating solution.
Breaking Down the Features of DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board
Specifications
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board is a replacement ignitor board designed specifically for “Park Model” furnaces. It features fuse protection, safeguarding the board against electrical surges and preventing damage to other furnace components. The board operates on a three-try ignition system, attempting to ignite the furnace three times before initiating a lockout sequence.
The board includes a one-hour retry cycle, automatically attempting to restart the furnace after an hour of lockout, saving the user from manually resetting the system. A unique feature is the bi-color LED indicator, which displays “Green” when the fan motor is on and power is present at the “AIR” terminal, and “Red” when power is supplied to the valve terminal. This bi-color LED simplifies troubleshooting by providing visual confirmation of the board’s operation. After three failed ignition attempts, the board shuts off the fan motor after 90 seconds (a minute and a half) for safety.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring reliable and safe furnace operation. The fuse protection prevents costly damage, while the three-try ignition system and lockout sequence minimizes the risk of gas leaks. The bi-color LED significantly simplifies diagnostics, making it easier to identify and resolve potential issues.
Performance & Functionality
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board performs its job effectively and reliably. The furnace ignites consistently, and the board accurately controls the fan motor and valve operation. Its ability to automatically retry ignition after an hour is a significant convenience.
The board’s strengths lie in its reliable performance and added safety features. The fuse protection is a valuable safeguard. The bi-color LED indicator greatly simplifies troubleshooting. One area for potential improvement might be clearer documentation outlining the specific fault codes indicated by the LED, although its basic function is relatively self-explanatory.
Overall, the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a robust and reliable solution for furnace control.
Design & Ergonomics
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board features a compact and well-organized design. The materials used appear to be durable and heat-resistant. The board’s weight is negligible, adding no significant bulk to the furnace assembly.
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board is user-friendly, with clearly labeled terminals that simplify installation. The bi-color LED indicator further enhances usability by providing immediate feedback on the board’s operation. There’s minimal learning curve involved, making it accessible to both experienced technicians and DIY enthusiasts.
Durability & Maintenance
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board is built to last. The robust construction and durable components suggest a long lifespan. With proper installation and minimal maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
The board is easy to maintain and repair. Visual inspections are straightforward, and the modular design allows for easy replacement of individual components if necessary. However, given the board’s reliability, repairs are unlikely to be a frequent occurrence.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It’s designed as a direct replacement for existing furnace control boards. There are no specific customization options available.
The board is designed to be compatible with standard “Park Model” furnace wiring configurations. It does not require any special adapters or modifications.
Pros and Cons of DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board
Pros
- Reliable Performance: The board consistently delivers reliable furnace operation, ensuring consistent heating.
- Enhanced Safety Features: The fuse protection and lockout sequence provide added safety and prevent damage.
- Easy Installation: Clearly labeled terminals and a standard wiring configuration simplify installation.
- Simplified Troubleshooting: The bi-color LED indicator provides immediate feedback on the board’s operation.
- Automatic Retry Cycle: The one-hour retry cycle automatically attempts to restart the furnace, saving time and effort.
Cons
- Limited Documentation: While the basic function is clear, more detailed documentation could be helpful for advanced troubleshooting.
- No Customization Options: The board is a direct replacement with no options for customization or expansion.
Who Should Buy DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board?
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board is perfect for RV owners, mobile home residents, and technicians who need a reliable replacement for a malfunctioning furnace control board. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals seeking a safe and easy-to-install solution. It will benefit those who appreciate the convenience of automated features like the retry cycle.
Individuals looking for advanced customization options or detailed diagnostic capabilities might want to explore other products. Those unfamiliar with basic electrical wiring should consider professional installation to ensure safe and proper operation.
A multi-meter and basic wiring tools are must-have accessories for installation. While not strictly necessary, a wiring diagram of the existing furnace can be helpful for reference.
Conclusion on DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board is a highly effective and reliable replacement for “Park Model” furnace control boards. Its robust construction, enhanced safety features, and ease of installation make it a standout product in its category. The bi-color LED indicator and automatic retry cycle are particularly valuable additions.
The price is justified by the board’s reliability, safety features, and the convenience it offers. It is a good value proposition for those seeking a long-term solution to furnace control issues.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board. It provides peace of mind knowing that your furnace is operating safely and reliably. If you’re tired of dealing with unreliable furnace control boards, invest in the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. Electronics Fan Control Board and say goodbye to chilly nights.