New here, Only one of my two Vermont Castings 2220 distribution fans is working.

[SAVVY59]

I noticed that very little heat was coming out of the top vent after the stove was lit and warmed up. I checked the distribution fans and only the right fan (facing from front) was working. I unplugged the left fan and tested and found zero voltage was found coming from the (board)? Do both fans run simultaneously all the time, or does the second fan come on at a different time?

I suppose I need to test the non-working fan to determine if it works?

I'm not an electrician, but just wondering if the left side bench tests good, can I run the voltage from the good fan - so both fans could run together, off the same lead?

If that is not an option; does anyone have any suggestions on where I could find a stronger fan to replace he one that is working? I though I read that both fans could be removed and a squirrel cage fan could be put in it's place? If yes, can anyone supply specifics on parts and diagram?
If it's the board causing the problem, can I just run a stronger fan, in place of the one that is working?
Sorry for all the questions, but I love my VC 2220 that I bought in 1992, and am not ready to give it up! Thanks

 

[johneh]

Your stove is an oldy like me at better than 30 years of age I suspect that the motor (fan)
needs replacement . try feeding it 120 volts if it runs your problem is in the wiring
If it does not run replace it.
This is the only manual I could find

{{manual.manufacturer_name}} - {{manual.product_name}} {{t.tag}} Manual{{manual.manufacturer_name}} {{manual.product_name}} {{t.tag}} Manual PDF download.

Gas Fireplace Replacement parts for all major brands of Gas fireplaces. All Parts in stock and ready to ship.

www.fire-parts.ca

 

[Ssyko]

if you run 2 motors off the same wiring you may burn the board out or worse start a fire. 1 motor will draw 1-2 amp 2 motors will draw 2-4 amp board probably wont take it at it's age. you may have a burned out triac. but like Johneh said test the motor first.

 

[Ssyko]

ok after some study, i see your board is controlling BOTH FAN's on 1 lead. so i would guess you can run 2 fans on the same line. look for broken wires from that motor that is inop, or use a multimeter and check the wires for continuity.

 

[tbear853]

I found this in my files, maybe of help. I too have a 1992 VC 2220 Reliance.

I nearly never run the temp up over 9 or 10 o'clock if you imagine the control running from about 7 to 5 o'clock. I've head and felt fans run high, but they do vary in speed according to heat in the stove and demand it seems. I don't see the schematic for the control. Looks like they are powered together off the same contacts. As best as I recall they do operate together, but I haven't stood there and took close notice lately, but they sound normal and ample air is coming out towards the room from the slot above the door. At times, if the stove warms up, they'll spin up faster. Right now they both are running at low speed .... I just went and checked to be sure.

Once years ago, I turned the stove up past 12 or1 o'clock, I turned it back down pretty soon as we were sweating. It is a beast when it's "right".

 

[SAVVY59]

Thanks Everyone! I will start with checking the fan motor. If that is good, I will check the continuity on the wires feeding the motor. I expect I will find my answer in one of these two items. FYI, I only ever burn my stove on the minimum setting. The only two times that I set the control to 9 o'clock, the flame was roaring and tons of heat came out the vent. I use my stove as axillary heat in my sunroom during the cold spells we have in MD, and to supplement my heat pump. I'm glad I stumbled across this Forum and appreciate all the help.

 

[tbear853]

Much under 9:00 on the imagined 7-5 dial, my fans barely run, but kick it up to like 10-11 .... they cycle as then there is heat that needs distributing. I haven't looked close recently at where the fans plug in at the brain center, might switch leads and see how that goes.