Is your RV’s Furrion thermostat driving you crazy with temperature swings, short cycling, or mysterious error codes? You’re dealing with what many RV owners consider the most frustrating component in their rigs. The good news? Most Furrion thermostat problems have solutions, and you don’t need to suffer through another camping trip with an AC that can’t make up its mind.
The Fatal Flaw in Furrion Thermostat Design
The biggest issue with Furrion thermostats isn’t a manufacturing defect—it’s an intentional design choice that causes a cascade of problems.
Temperature Sensor Location Problem
Here’s the deal: Furrion placed the temperature sensor in the return air duct inside the AC housing rather than in the living space where you actually feel the temperature. This creates a fundamental disconnect between what the thermostat “thinks” the temperature is and what you’re actually experiencing in your RV.
According to multiple user reports on Brinkley RV forums, this sensor placement means your thermostat is reading the temperature of air being sucked into the system, not your living space.
The Short Cycling Nightmare
The misplaced sensor causes your AC to run for only 60-90 seconds before shutting off, well before your RV has actually cooled down. One RV owner documented their thermostat reading dropping from 71°F to 66°F in less than a minute—physically impossible for actual room cooling.
This short cycling:
- Prevents proper dehumidification
- Makes your RV uncomfortable
- Stresses your AC compressor
- Wastes energy
- Creates temperature swings throughout your RV
A simple test proves this issue: when you physically hold the temperature sensor (warming it with your hand), the AC runs properly for extended periods. Release it, and the short cycling immediately returns.
Common Furrion Error Codes Explained
When your Furrion thermostat displays an error code, here’s what it’s trying to tell you:
| Error Code | Meaning | System Response |
|---|---|---|
| E1 | Indoor temperature sensor malfunction | System shuts down |
| E2 | Evaporator temperature sensor failure | System shuts down |
| E3 | Communication loss between thermostat and control box | System shuts down |
| E6 | Similar to E3, another communication issue | System shuts down |
| Lo | Insufficient 12V power supply | System shuts down |
Fixing the Dreaded E3 Error
The E3 error is particularly common among Furrion thermostat users. According to etrailer support, this typically indicates wiring problems. Here’s how to fix it:
- Check all wire connections for damage or looseness
- Verify A and B wires are in the correct ports
- Reset the thermostat by cutting power for 5-10 minutes
- If problems persist, you may need to replace the control board
Everyday Operation Problems
Beyond the core design issues, Furrion thermostats have several quirks that trip up users.
Power Button Confusion
Many first-time users can’t figure out how to turn on their Furrion thermostat. Unlike traditional thermostats with a simple press, Furrion requires you to press and hold the power button for 3 seconds to turn it on or off, as shown in their official manual.
Fan Speed Issues
If your fan won’t change speeds when switching between Low, High, and Auto modes, try this reset process from etrailer support:
- Turn thermostat to “Off”
- Reset the breaker
- Wait 30 minutes
- Turn thermostat to “Cool”
Wildly Inaccurate Temperature Readings
It’s common for your Furrion thermostat to show a temperature that’s nowhere close to what you’re feeling. One user noted their thermostat reading 72°F in cooling mode while the actual RV temperature was much warmer.
More frustratingly, some users report the displayed temperature changing dramatically when switching between heating and cooling modes, as documented in Brinkley owner forums.
DIY Solutions That Actually Work
While the problems with Furrion thermostats are substantial, the RV community has developed several effective solutions.
Temperature Sensor Relocation: The Ultimate Fix
The most effective solution is moving the temperature sensor from the return air duct to the wall of your living space. This directly addresses the root cause of most Furrion thermostat problems.
You have two options:
- Pre-made kits: Companies like Castle Winch offer temperature sensor relocation kits for about $40 that include a 10-foot extension cable and wall mount.
- DIY approach: Some RVers create their own extensions using 18-gauge wire pairs, though the pre-made kits offer better reliability.
Users who relocate their sensors consistently report:
- Elimination of short cycling
- Consistent, accurate temperature readings
- Better humidity control
- More comfortable living conditions
Quick Operational Workarounds
While not perfect solutions, these adjustments can improve performance while you plan a more permanent fix:
- Keep the fan running continuously on low speed rather than using auto mode. This prevents the return air from cooling too quickly.
- Use cardboard dividers to separate return and discharge air flows, preventing the cold discharge air from immediately being pulled into the return.
- Ensure proper sealing between air compartments to minimize temperature sensor confusion.
Upgraded Hardware Solutions
If you’re ready to invest in hardware upgrades, several options can significantly improve your RV’s climate control.
Air Distribution Box Upgrades
Upgrading to improved air distribution boxes can help mitigate some problems, according to etrailer support:
- FACT12SA-PS: Features adjustable vents and better airflow distribution
- FACT12LA-PS: Provides dual-slotted registers for maximum airflow
Complete AC System Upgrades
Some RV owners opt for complete system replacements:
- Furrion Chill Cube: Variable-speed technology that’s more efficient and quieter
- Multi-zone systems: Better control and sensor placement options
- Heat pump combinations: Improved year-round performance
Warranty Considerations When Fixing Your Thermostat
Many RV owners worry about voiding warranties when modifying their Furrion thermostats.
Know Your Legal Rights
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, warranties cannot be voided by user modifications unless the manufacturer can prove your modification directly caused a failure. The burden of proof lies with them, not you.
Some RV manufacturers like Brinkley initially claimed moving the sensor would void warranties, but this stance contradicts federal warranty law.
Removable Modifications
Most sensor relocation kits are designed as plug-and-play solutions that can be easily removed to restore the original configuration for warranty service. This gives you the best of both worlds—a functioning AC system and preserved warranty coverage.
Troubleshooting Steps for Common Furrion Problems
When your Furrion thermostat acts up, work through these steps:
Display Won’t Turn On
- Verify 12V power is available to your RV
- Check your circuit breakers
- Press and hold the power button for 3 full seconds
- Check for loose wire connections at the thermostat
AC Runs Only Briefly Then Shuts Off
- Try running the fan on low speed continuously
- Check if the return air filter is clean
- Test if the problem occurs in fan-only mode
- Consider relocating the temperature sensor
Persistent Error Codes
- Power cycle your entire RV electrical system
- Check all wiring connections
- Ensure proper voltage (low voltage will trigger Lo error)
- Contact RV service if errors continue after basic troubleshooting
When To Replace Your Furrion Thermostat
Sometimes, replacement is the best option. Consider a new thermostat when:
- Multiple error codes persist despite troubleshooting
- Control board replacement costs approach new thermostat prices
- You want enhanced features like WiFi control or scheduling
The Micro-Air EasyTouch RV thermostat is a popular replacement that solves many of the Furrion design issues and adds smart features.
Preventive Maintenance for Furrion Thermostats
Proper maintenance can help avoid some common problems:
- Clean return air filters monthly during heavy use
- Check and tighten electrical connections annually
- Keep vents unobstructed by furniture or curtains
- Ensure proper RV leveling (affects some AC functions)
- Maintain battery voltage above 12V when running on battery power
The Future of RV Climate Control
Furrion has begun addressing some issues in newer models. The Furrion Chill product line includes improved temperature monitoring and variable speed technology.
Third-party solutions continue to evolve, with companies like Lippert offering upgraded components compatible with Furrion systems.
Several RV manufacturers are now specifying better sensor placement in their custom Furrion installations, suggesting the industry is acknowledging the design problems.
Take Control of Your RV’s Climate
Furrion thermostat problems stem primarily from poor temperature sensor placement rather than actual thermostat failure. By understanding this fundamental design flaw, you can implement solutions that will dramatically improve your RV’s comfort.
Whether you choose the quick fix of running your fan continuously or the more permanent solution of relocating your temperature sensor, you don’t have to live with an uncomfortable RV. With these solutions, you can enjoy camping in comfort regardless of outside temperatures.
For those planning to purchase a new RV, ask specifically about the thermostat sensor location—some manufacturers now offer improved installations that avoid these common problems.
