Reddy Heater - Troubleshooting Torpedo Heaters

If you have a Torpedo or Salamander Heater that is giving you headaches then you need to learn to figure out why it is not working. Here are some things to look for to help you get heating again.

Your heater has a photocell that is always looking for a flame that is nearly perfect. If the flame is going crazy and is not steady or is not even the right color the electronics will shut your heater down.

Things to check:

1. Is the pump pressure correct? Check the specs for your particular unit as all units can have different pressure settings. This setting is VERY critical for proper operation.
2. Check the fuel for contamination, this can change the flame color or plug the pickup tube. Water just don’t burn very well.
3. Check that the igniter is warming up or that the spark plug is sparking. Check gap on plug if equipped.
4. Check the nozzle to make sure it is not worn. It should be fogging the fuel and not spraying it. Use compressed air to blow out the nozzle. Replace the nozzle if in doubt.
5. Check for any air leaks in the pump, nozzle, fuel pickup line or air lines. Any cracks or such, replace. If it runs with the cover off but not with it on then the nozzle is bad. Soapy water can help find leaks, but watch the electrical parts.
6. Photocell may be dirty or defective. Clean the photocell or replace if needed.
7. Ignition control board may be defective. If everything else check out then it may be the board.
8. Clean lint filter. Restricted air flow will make problems.
9. Air pump may be worn or defective. If there are no leaks and you can’t get air pressure then replace air pump. The air pressure pulls the fuel out of the tank so that is why air pressure is so critical.