Are you in the market for a new furnace control board? A furnace control board is the “brain” of the furnace that tells the various components of the furnace when to turn on and off. The control board also monitors the furnace’s temperature and ensures that it is operating safely and efficiently.
If your furnace control board is faulty, it can cause a lot of problems with your furnace. A broken furnace control board can cause your furnace to overheat, cycle on and off too frequently, or even fail to turn on at all. In some cases, it can be hard to tell if your furnace control board is the problem. However, if you notice any of these issues with your furnace, it’s best to consider replacing the control board right away.
In this article, I’ll take a look at some of the best replacement furnace control boards on the market today. I’ll also discuss what to look for when choosing a board and what I have learned from my experience working as a HVAC design engineer in New York City.
So, whether you’re in need of a new board or just want to learn more about them, read on!
Bottom line: When your furnace control board goes out, you’ll need to find a replacement that fits your furnace. There are many different types and brands of furnace control boards on the market, so it’s important to choose one that will work well with your furnace.
The Goodman PCBDM133S is a great replacement for most people because it’s compatible with many different types of furnaces and is easy to install. It also has a wide range of features that make it a great choice for most people. If you’re looking for a replacement furnace control board, the Goodman PCBDM133S is a great option.
Read also: Comprehensive Guide to Furnace Types and Best Furnaces.
Top Picks
- Goodman PCBDM133S Appliance Replacement Part – Best Overall
- Suburban SB521099 3G Furnace Fan Control Board – Budget Option
- Dinosaur Electronics FAN50PLUS Universal Igniter Board with Fan Control – Best option with a fan control
What Is a Furnace Control Board?
A furnace control board is a circuit board that regulates the operation of a furnace. The control board turns the furnace’s blower on and off to circulate air and regulates the furnace’s burner to provide heat. The control board also monitors the furnace’s temperature and turns the gas valve on and off to maintain the proper temperature. If the control board fails, the furnace will not operate correctly.
The control board is located in the furnace, usually near the gas valve. It is often covered by a metal plate with screws holding it in place. To access the control board, remove the screws and lift off the metal plate.
The control board has several terminals, or ports, that connect to various components in the furnace. These include the blower, the gas valve, the igniter, and the thermostat. The control board also has a number of LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, that indicate the status of the furnace.
Here’s everything you need to know about finding the best gas valves for your furnace.
How Does a Furnace Control Board Work?
The control board uses relays to turn the furnace’s components on and off. A relay is an electrical switch that is activated by an electromagnet. When the electromagnet is energized, it closes the switch and allows current to flow. When the electromagnet is de-energized, the switch opens and stops the flow of current.
The control board has a transformer that steps down the voltage from 120 volts to 24 volts. This low voltage is used to activate the electromagnets in the relays.
The control board also has a pilot light relay. This relay provides power to the furnace’s pilot light. The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas when the furnace is turned on.
The control board has a limit switch that monitors the temperature inside the furnace. If the temperature gets too high, the limit switch will open and shut off the gas supply to prevent damage to the furnace.
The control board also has a pressure switch that monitors the pressure of the exhaust gases. If the pressure gets too high, the switch will open and shut off the blower to prevent backdrafting.
If any of these components fail, the furnace will not operate correctly. In some cases, the entire control board will need to be replaced.
Interesting Read: How to Find the Best Furnace Pressure Switches.
How to Tell If a Furnace Circuit Board Is Bad
Most people don’t know how to tell if a furnace circuit board is bad. This can be a tricky problem to solve, but it’s important to be able to identify the issue so you can get it fixed as soon as possible.
The first thing you should look for is any visible damage to the circuit board. If there are any burnt or damaged areas, this is a good indication that the board is faulty.
Another way to tell if a circuit board is bad is by testing it with a multimeter. This will show you if there is any continuity between the various points on the board. If there is no continuity, then the board is probably bad.
Finally, check for any error codes that may be displayed on the control panel. If you see an error code that indicates a problem with the circuit board, replacement will be necessary.
In most cases, a furnace circuit board is easy to replace. However, if the damage is severe, you may need to replace the entire furnace. This is a much more involved process, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
If you think your furnace circuit board is bad, don’t hesitate to get it replaced as soon as possible. It’s an important part of your furnace and can cause major problems if it’s not working correctly.
How To Test and Check
To test your furnace circuit board, you will need the following items:
- A multimeter
- A screwdriver
- An electrical tester
Step 1: Turn Off the Power to Your Furnace
Before you do anything, you need to make sure that the power to your furnace is turned off. The last thing that you want is to get electrocuted while working on your furnace. To turn off the power, simply flip the switch on your circuit breaker box labeled “Furnace” to the “Off” position.
Step 2: Remove the Furnace Cover
With the power off, you can now remove the furnace cover. This will give you access to the interior of the furnace where the circuit board is located. To remove the cover, simply unscrew the screws that are holding it in place and then lift it off.
Step 3: Find the Circuit Board
Once you have removed the furnace cover, you should be able to see the circuit board inside. It will usually be mounted to the side of the furnace near the bottom.
Step 4: Test the Circuit Board for Voltage
Now it’s time to test the circuit board for voltage. First, use your multimeter to test for voltage at the two terminals on the circuit board. These terminals should have 120 volts of power running through them.
If there is no power running through these terminals, then the problem is with your circuit breaker and not the circuit board. If there is power running through the terminals, then proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Test the Circuit Board for Continuity
Next, you need to test the circuit board for continuity. To do this, use your electrical tester to touch one probe to each of the terminals on the circuit board. If the circuit board is working properly, then the electrical tester should light up.
If the electrical tester does not light up, then that means that there is a break in continuity and the circuit board needs to be replaced.
Best Replacement Furnace Control Boards
When your furnace control board fails, it can be a real headache. Not only do you have to deal with the inconvenience of having no heat, but you also have to find a replacement part.
If you’re not familiar with furnace control boards, they are the brains behind your furnace’s operations. The control board tells the furnace when to turn on and off, regulates the gas flow and ignites the burner. Without a working control board, your furnace is essentially useless.
There are a few different types of furnace control boards on the market, so it’s important to choose the right one for your furnace. Below I’ll discuss the best replacement furnace control boards so you can make an informed decision.
Selection Criteria
Let’s discuss some of the selection criteria used when creating a list of the best replacement furnace control boards.
First, I considered the compatibility of the replacement furnace control board with the furnace. It’s important to make sure that the replacement board is compatible with the model of furnace. Otherwise, it might not work properly.
Also, I took into account the features of the replacement furnace control board. Some features I looked for include a diagnostic LED, flame sense circuit, and an automatic gas shut-off valve. These features can help you troubleshoot problems with your furnace and prevent further damage.
Finally, I considered the price of the replacement furnace control board. You don’t want to overspend on a replacement board, but you also don’t want to skimp on quality. I looked for boards that are fairly priced and have good reviews from other customers.
By following these selection criteria, I came up with a list of replacement furnace control boards that I think will be applicable for most situations.
Goodman PCBDM133S Appliance Replacement Part
The Goodman PCBDM133S is a state-of-the-art furnace control board that offers superior performance and reliability. This direct replacement for the Goodman PCBBF132S offers numerous benefits, including:
- Improved energy efficiency: The Goodman PCBDM133S is designed to optimize furnace operation for improved energy efficiency.
- Enhanced durability: The Goodman PCBDM133S is built with high-quality components that offer enhanced durability and long-lasting performance.
- Simple installation: The Goodman PCBDM133S can be easily installed by a qualified HVAC technician.
If you are looking for a reliable and efficient furnace control board that is extremely easy to install, the Goodman PCBDM133S is a perfect option for you.
Pros
- Plug and play install
- Manufactured in the United States
- The part is very well made and it is backed by a great warranty.
- The customer service from Goodman is excellent.
Cons
- The part is not always easy to find in stock.
- The warranty on the part is only for one year.
Suburban SB521099 3G Furnace Fan Control Board
The Suburban SB521099 3G Furnace Fan Control Board is a great option for anyone looking for an upgrade or replacement for their existing furnace control board. This particular model is designed for use with Suburban gas furnaces, and it’s one of the most durable and efficient control boards on the market.
Here are just a few of the reasons why the Suburban SB521099 3G Furnace Fan Control Board is a great choice for your furnace:
- It’s highly durable and efficient. The Suburban SB521099 3G Furnace Fan Control Board is made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. It’s also one of the most efficient control boards on the market, meaning that it will help your furnace run more smoothly and efficiently.
- It’s easy to install. One of the biggest headaches that comes with replacing a furnace control board is the installation process. But the Suburban SB521099 3G Furnace Fan Control Board is designed for easy installation, so you won’t have to waste time or effort getting it set up.
- It comes with a warranty. When you buy a Suburban SB521099 3G Furnace Fan Control Board, you can rest assured knowing that it’s backed by a comprehensive warranty. This means that if anything goes wrong with the board, you’ll be covered.
As you can see, there are plenty of good reasons to choose the Suburban SB521099 3G Furnace Fan Control Board as your next furnace control board. It’s durable, efficient, and easy to install, and it comes with a comprehensive warranty. So if you’re in the market for a new furnace control board that is extremely durable and will optimize your furnace’s efficiency, make sure to give the Suburban SB521099 3G a look.
Pros
- It is easy to install and use, and it comes with a detailed instruction manual.
- The fan control board includes a variety of safety features, such as an automatic shut-off when the temperature gets too high.
- The Suburban SB521099 3G furnace fan control board is backed by a one-year warranty.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the Suburban SB521099 3G furnace fan control board does not always work correctly.
- There have also been reports of the fan control board making noise when it is turned on.
Dinosaur Electronics FAN50PLUS Universal Igniter Board with Fan Control
The Dinosaur Electronics FAN50PLUS Universal Igniter Board with Fan Control is one of the best replacement furnace control boards because it offers a maximum rotational speed of 1500 RPM. This makes it ideal for use in high-efficiency furnaces that require a faster fan speed to operate properly.
In addition, the board includes a built-in fan control that allows you to adjust the speed of the blower motor to match the needs of your particular furnace. This makes it easy to keep your furnace running at its most efficient level, which can save you money on your energy bills.
Finally, the board is backed by a 1-year warranty, so you can be sure that it will stand up to years of use.
If you’re looking for a replacement furnace control board with a high RPM, the Dinosaur Electronics FAN50PLUS Universal Igniter Board with Fan Control is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Easy to install
- No soldering required
- Controls both the igniter and the blower fan
- Universal design fits most furnaces
- LED indicator lets you know if the igniter is working
- Comes with a one-year warranty
Cons
- Some users have found that the board fails after a few months
- The instructions are not very clear
- There have been reports of the igniter not working properly in cold weather
White-Rodgers 50A55-743 Control Board
The White-Rodgers 50A55-743 Control Board is one of the best replacement furnace control boards on the market. It is easy to install and has a wide range of features that make it ideal for use in a variety of furnaces.
The board is designed to be used with Goodman furnaces, but it can also be used in other brands of furnaces as well. It has a number of different settings that allow you to customize the operation of your furnace, and it also includes a diagnostic LED that helps you troubleshoot problems with your furnace.
The 50A55-743 is an upgrade from the earlier model, and it offers a number of improvements over the older model. In particular, the 50A55-743 includes a new microprocessor that offers better performance and more features than the older model.
The 50A55-743 is a popular furnace control board; it is an amazing choice for anyone who is looking for a replacement board that gives great value for money and is highly versatile.
Pros
- Highly versatile and reliable control board that can be used in a variety of applications, including HVAC systems.
- Has a wide range of functions and features that make it an ideal choice for use in HVAC systems.
- Provides excellent value for money.
- Backed by a comprehensive warranty from the manufacturer.
Cons
- There have been some reports of reliability issues with the White-Rodgers 50A55-743 Control Board, although these seem to be relatively rare.
- The board is not compatible with all HVAC systems, so it’s important to check compatibility before purchase.
Carrier Products HK32EA007 – Defrost Control Board
The Carrier Products HK32EA007 – Defrost Control Board is one of the best replacement furnace control boards on the market.
Firstly, it is an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) part, meaning that it is made by the same company that made the furnace originally. This means that it will fit perfectly and work properly with your furnace, unlike aftermarket parts which may not fit as well or work as efficiently. This board controls the defrost cycle of your furnace, so it is an important part to have in good working order.
If your furnace is not defrosting properly, it can lead to ice buildup and other problems. Replacing a faulty or damaged defrost control board can help keep your furnace running smoothly and prevent costly repairs down the road. The Carrier Products HK32EA007 – Defrost Control Board is easy to install and comes with detailed instructions. It’s also backed by a one-year warranty from Carrier.
So if you’re looking for an OEM replacement defrost control board, the Carrier Products HK32EA007 – Defrost Control Board is an extremely reliable option.
Pros
- Carrier products are backed by a great warranty
- The customer service is top notch
- The quality of the product is very good
Cons
- The price is a bit high
- There have been some reports of the defrost control board failing prematurely
Furnace Circuit Board Replacement Cost
Furnace circuit board replacement costs will vary depending on the model of furnace you have and the age of your unit. Generally speaking, however, you can expect to pay between $100 and $500 for a new furnace circuit board. The cost of installation will also vary depending on the complexity of your furnace and the experience of your HVAC technician. Expect to pay between $100 and $200 per hour for installation.
If you have an older furnace, it is likely that your circuit board will need to be replaced more often than a newer model. This is because older furnaces are not as efficient as newer models, and they tend to overheat more easily. As such, it is important to have your furnace serviced regularly by a qualified HVAC technician to ensure that it is running efficiently and to avoid the need for costly repairs.
If you have any questions about furnace circuit board replacement cost, be sure to ask your HVAC technician. They will be able to give you a better estimate of the costs associated with this repair and can advise you on the best course of action for your particular situation.
If you are in the market for a replacement furnace control board, it is important to know what to look for. Make sure to select a board that meets the specific needs of your furnace and home. The best replacement boards will have all of the features that you need and will be compatible with your system. I hope this article has been helpful and provided you with some useful information about furnace control boards!
FAQs
Question: What are the signs of a bad furnace control board?
Answer: Several signs can indicate a problem with the furnace control board. These include the furnace not igniting, the burner not coming on, the blower not working, and the furnace shutting off unexpectedly. If you notice any of these problems, it’s important to call a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue.
Question: What are some common causes of furnace control board problems?
Answer: There are several potential causes of problems with a furnace control board. One common cause is a power surge that damages the board. Another possibility is a manufacturing defect. In some cases, dirt and debris can accumulate on the board and cause it to malfunction. Finally, simply age and wear can lead to problems with a control board.
Question: How do I troubleshoot a problem with my furnace control board?
Answer: There are a few things you can do to troubleshoot a furnace control board issue. First, check the circuit breaker and reset it if necessary. Next, inspect the control board for dirt and debris and clean it off if needed. You can also try replacing the batteries in the thermostat. If none of these solutions solve the problem, then you’ll need to call a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue.
Question: Can I replace a furnace control board myself?
Answer: In most cases, it’s best to leave furnace repairs to qualified professionals. However, if you’re experienced with electrical work, then you may be able to replace the furnace control board yourself. Be sure to disconnect all power to the furnace before beginning any repairs.
Question: What should I do if my furnace control board needs to be replaced?
Answer: If you need to replace your furnace control board, the first step is to find a replacement that’s compatible with your furnace. You can often find these online or at a local HVAC supply store. Once you have the new board, follow the instructions in your furnace’s owner’s manual to install it. If you’re not confident in your ability to replace the board, then it’s best to call a qualified technician to handle the job for you.
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