New Product Releases

Priding ourselves on innovation and American assembly ICM Controls has hit the ground running in 2025. With over three new products launched this year we’d like to take a step back and appreciate how far we’ve come in two shorts months.  

ICM Controls caters to both OEMs and the aftermarket allowing us flexibility in what we can offer to our customers to best suit their needs. Dedicated to innovation throughout the entire process from design the conception, ICM Controls has been able to manufacture controls to help meet your needs. 

Looking back on January 

In January ICM Controls launched the ICM279. A form, fit and function air handler replacement board for the Carrier/ICP brand. This control design allows it to be a fast drop-in option with OEM mounting and wiring for PCB blower motors. Its heavy-duty output delay and internal short-cycle protection are some of its key features and benefits.   

Interested in learning more about this new and innovative device? Contact freetrainings@icmcontrols.com to schedule a free product training or view our pre-recorded product webinar here. If you’d like even more information, we invite you to visit our dedicated ICM279 webpage 

Leaping into February  

With great success at the beginning of 2025, ICM Controls has kept the momentum going! In February we developed a device that offers surge protection and line voltage monitoring in one easy-to-install solution. 

The Sentry 3N1 launched at the beginning of February. This device was an eye jerk-er and topic of interest for almost all attendees at the AHR25 Conference. We are pleased to have officially launched this product and look forward to its future success.  

A brief overview of the Sentry 3N1, why you need it and what it can truly do for you.  

What is the Sentry 3N1?  

The Sentry 3N1 combines the benefits of an ICM517A single-phase surge protection device, and a ICM492 single-phase voltage monitor into one easy to install solution. It also provides technicians and homeowners a convenient way to break the power using an onboard disconnect breaker (also serving as a secondary safety). 

The Sentry3N1 protects against both power surges and over/under voltage issues that can cause damage to circuit boards and motors in residential and commercial single-phase 208/240 VAC HVAC/R equipment. 

The Sentry 3N1 is equipped with an ICM517A which is built to withstand the high impact of major surge events (100Ka). This kind of protection helps to ensure our equipment can maintain the effects of a surge, essentially providing us with a low-cost insurance policy for our appliances. In addition, to surge protection the Sentry 3N1 also provides line voltage monitoring of single- phase devices. Monitoring line voltage allows an anti-short cycle delay to take place, preventing the compressor and reversal of scroll compressors, giving precise control over the output relay.  

Product Specifications include: 

ICM517A Surge Suppressor 

  • Maximum Surge Current: 100,000 amps 
  • Robust cast aluminum enclosure for secondary safety 
  • Diagnostics green LED light indicates surge suppression present 
  • Protection modes: L-L, L-G 

ICM492 Voltage Monitor 

  • User Adjustable settings: 
  • Voltage set point: 95-280 VAC (do not set above 240VAC) 
  • Anti-short cycle time delay: 0-720 seconds 
  • Over/under voltage setting: 5-25% (do not set above 5%) 
  • Response time: 0.1 to 10 seconds 
  • Accuracy: ±2% 

Inputs: 

  • Line voltage: 208/240 VAC 
  • Frequency: 50/60 Hz 
  • Breaker: 40 amp at 240 VAC 

Outputs: 

  • Type: Contactor 
  • 2-Pole contact ratings: 40A FLA, 240A LRA 

For more product information click here. 

 

Looking Beyond the Horizon:  

As the third quarter nears to a close, we are elated to have a few more product offerings under our belts. In March, ICM Controls is expected to launch two additional products which include the 3VMS and ICM2706. Let’s take a sneak peek into these products! 

 

3VMS – 3-Phase Voltage Monitor and Surge Protector 

The 3VMS concept is similar to that of the recently launched Sentry 3N1, however, this design is geared towards three-phase residential and commercial equipment opposed to single-phase.  

To best protect and monitor 3-phase equipment, ICM Controls uses the ICM450A, programmable 3-phase line voltage monitor and an ICM530, type 1 and type 2 three=phase surge protective device. This combination protects against both power surges and over/under voltage issues, phase reversal, phase unbalanced and rapid short cycling. 

*Includes a face cover plate

Specifications Include: 

ICM530 Surge Protection Device: 

  • Maximum Surge Current: 150,000 amps 
  • Diagnostic green LED light indicates surge protection present 
  • Protection modes: L-L, L-N (L-N protection available only when Neutral is connected) 

ICM450A 3-Phase Line Voltage Monitor: 

  • User Adjustable settings: 
  • Voltage set point: 190-600 VAC (do not set above 240VAC) 
  • Delay on Fault: 0- 15 seconds 
  • Percent Unbalance: 2% – 20% (do not set above 10%) 
  • Anti-short cycle time delay: 15 sec to 10 min 
  • Over/under voltage setting: 2-25% (do not set above 5% when voltage set point is 240VAC) 

Inputs: 

  • Line voltage: 208/240 VAC 
  • Frequency: 50/60 Hz 

Outputs: 

  • Type: Relay, SPDT 
  • 2-Pole contact ratings: 40A, 600VAC 
  • Coil: 208/240VAC, 50/60Hz  

 

Did the 3VMS catch your eye? If you’re interested in learning more about this product before it hits the market, contact your local sales representative or reach us at icmorders@icmcontrols.com 

 

February Product Spotlight of the Month: Sentry 3N1

The Sentry 3N1: Product Spotlight of the Month

This month’s product spotlight is none other than the new and innovative Sentry 3N1, disconnect with internal voltage monitoring and surge protection. The Sentry 3N1 combines the benefits of a ICM517A single phase surge protective device, and an ICM492 single phase voltage monitor while incorporating a disconnect breaker into one easy to install solution, creating one cohesive product to protect and guard your equipment.

 

Overall Features and Benefits of the Sentry 3N1 include:

  • All in one voltage monitor and surge suppressor with 40amp breaker
  • Field replaceable components (Pre-wired for 240 VAC)
  • Field Programmable Voltage Monitor with backlit display
  • Onboard 40amp contactor for Inductive loads
  • Pre-wired ICM517A surge suppression device with cast aluminum enclosure for secondary safety, rated at 100,000 amps maximum surge capacity
  • NEMA type 4X /IP66 enclosure
  • Internal 40amp Breaker included
  • Made in USA

 

Click here to view our Sell Sheet

Click Here to view the Application Guide

View How We Compare to the Competition

 

Coming Together as One: Surge Protection and Line Voltage Monitor

The Sentry 3N1 is designed to provide a convenient way for techs and homeowners to break power connection and protect against surges and over/under voltages that could cause damage to equipment.

 

More information on the difference between surge protection and line voltage monitoring can be found here. (Link to Weathering the Storm Blog)

 

ICM517A Single-Phase Surge Protection Device

The ICM Controls best-in-class ICM517A serves as one of the protectors in the Sentry 3N1. The ICM517A is built to withstand the high impact of a major surge event which could cause instantaneous damage or even failure to expensive equipment. This device has a maximum surge capacity of 100,000 amps, essentially providing you with a low-cost insurance policy built to protect the compressor and other equipment from those harmful transient surges.

 

Below is a list of further details for the 517A:

  • Built to withstand the high impact of a major surge event
  • Constructed in a robust Cast Aluminum enclosure for maximum durability
  • Features a redesigned rivet sealed molded case with an internal gasket
  • NEMA Type 4X rated for indoor/outdoor installation
  • Features a thinner, more compact profile than previous versions
  • Updated to the latest addition of UL Standards, including UL Rated Powder Coating for superior corrosion resistance
  • Withstands effects of prolonged UV exposure better than ABS plastics
  • Easy Install & Proudly Innovated in America

For more information on product features, benefits and specification see our Sell Sheet and Installation/Application Guide.

ICM492 Single-Phase Digital Line Voltage Monitor

ICM492 is another great product to help in protecting your most valuable investments. It’s designed to protect single-phase equipment from both low and high voltage conditions, and rapid short cycling due to voltage fault or power interruptions.

Additional features include:

  • Easy-view, backlit digital display
  • Adjustable voltage set point
  • Adjustable anti-short cycle time delay
  • Adjustable response time
  • Control mode (optional)
  • 5-fault memory
  • Universal line voltage input
  • Heavy duty SPDT relay output
  • Universal control voltage input (for integrating a thermostat)

For more information on product features, benefits and specification see our Sell Sheet and Installation/Application Guide.

Additional Safety

Continuing with the third line of defense included in the Sentry3N1 is our circuit breaker. This onboard circuit breaker provides a secondary safety and is better suited for inductive loads as compared to a latch relay which could latch in the “on” position, creating a potential safety hazard.

Featuring:

  • Thermal-Magnetic inverse time-delay over-current release type “C” Tripping curve.
  • Network frequency 50/60 Hz
  • 2-pole
  • 4 AWG to 18 AWG Solid or Stranded wire accepted
  • Short circuit breaking rating of 10kA at 240VAC

 

To Learn More About the Sentry 3N1 Watch Our Training Webinar Below:

Register Today for Our Phase 2 Webinar:

Introducing the Sentry 3N1

Sentry 3N1 Product Launch

For over 40 years ICM Controls has put innovation to the test as we continue to offer our customers the most technologically advanced products a the highest value, without compromising quality. This month we are excited to announce the release of a new product from ICM Controls, the Sentry 3N1.

 

The Sentry 3N1 is a disconnect with internal voltage monitoring and surge protection device that combines the benefits of a ICM517A single-phase surge protective device, an ICM492 single-phase voltage monitor while incorporating a disconnect breaker into one easy to install solution. This device provides technicians and homeowners with a convenient way to break power connection, protects against power surges and over/under voltages that cause damage to the equipment as well as includes individual components that are replaceable.

 

Components Used with the Sentry3N1:

 

ICM517A Single-Phase Surge Protection Device

 

The ICM Controls best-in-class ICM517A serves as one of the protectors in the Sentry 3N1. The ICM517A is built to withstand the high impact of a major surge event which could cause instantaneous damage or even failure to expensive equipment. This device has a maximum surge capacity of 100,000 amps, essentially providing you with a low-cost insurance policy built to protect the compressor and other equipment from those harmful transient surges.

Click here to learn more about ICM517A

ICM492 Single-Phase Digital Line Voltage Monitor

 

ICM492 is another great product to help in protecting your most valuable investments. It’s designed to protect single-phase equipment from both low and high voltage conditions, and rapid short cycling due to voltage fault or power interruptions.

Click here to learn more about ICM492

 

Disconnect Breaker

Onboard circuit breaker provides a secondary safety and is better suited for inductive loads as compared to a latch relay which could latch in the “on” position, creating a potential safety hazard.

 

Staying Protected from the Inside Out:

The Sentry3N1 is equipped with multiple components that protect your equipment from the inside however, ICM Controls has added another layer of protection. All of these components (ICM571A, ICM492 and disconnect breaker) are encased within a NEMA type 4X rating/IPP66 outdoor enclosure which is ideal for use in a wide range of adverse weather conditions.

 

Where the Sentry3N1 Got Its Name:

Finally, as a trusted partner with ICM Controls you may have noticed that this product name is different compared to our standard “ICM” prefaced product numbers, but we made this adjustment for a reason. Last month, ICM Controls conducted its first ever product name contest, and we must admit this was a great success as the Sentry3N1 is the true epitome of its name.

 

Sentry 3N1 Product Webinar:

For more product information we invite you to take a look at our Sentry3N1 product page as well as view our Phase -1 pre-recorded product webinar here. If interested we’ll also be hosting a second webinar on the Sentry3N1 this February. Click here to register!

How Cold Weather Can Affect Your Everyday Appliances

The low temperatures most of us are experiencing throughout the United States can cause a threat to not only ourselves but also to our everyday appliances. These fridged temperatures we’re facing can cause appliances to not only work less efficiently but can also lead to freezing, cracking and/or even an explosion. During the months of November – April it’s important to take extra precaution to help protect your appliances from unforeseen damaged due to the cold.

Here’s some insight as to how the cold affects appliances such as washing machines and refrigeration, and what measures we can take to get the most out of our equipment during these cold days ahead.

 

How Cold Weather Affects Refrigeration

Our fridges and freezers are one of the most used appliances within the household. However, with most households having an average of 2.55 people in them it can be hard to fit all your groceries into one place. Therefore, some of us also have a refrigerator or freezer in our garages or basements to help hold the overflow items. Although, it is nice to have some additional storage space, it’s also important to keep in mind that if temperatures drop below 60 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit your fridge might not cycle as frequently. This is mainly due to the thermostat on the refrigerator not calling for the proper cooling and defrost cycles to take place, which could ultimately lead to your refrigerator or freezer to stop working. If you can regulate your temperatures in these colder areas of your home, it could save you from having to repair and/or replace these larger appliances.

 

How cold weather affects washing machines

For most of us located near the ICM Controls headquarters of Syracuse, NY, we are facing temperatures as low as -1 this week. Did you know that these extremely low winter temperatures could affect how we do laundry? If you’ve done your wash recently and seem to think the job is just not getting done, you could be right! Laundry detergent requires water to be at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit, if not warmer. If the temperature in your washing machine is below 60 degrees, there’s a chance that the detergent is not dissolving properly. Although, the “cold” setting helps save money and energy it’s important to understand what setting are needed to ensure your detergent is dissolving based on your specific weather conditions. Otherwise, you’ll be using more water than necessary without achieving the end goal of having clean clothes. All in all, if you’re experiencing negative temperatures outside it might be beneficial to rely more on the “warm” or “hot” water setting to effectively and efficiently wash your clothes.

Thank you for reading our tips and tricks!

January Product Spotlight: ICM279

New Product Launch: ICM279

ICM Controls is known for its ability to swiftly transform a control concept into a prototype and seamlessly transition it into products. This has become a staple of our brand we don’t plan to slow down anytime soon! With this being said, we are happy to announce that our first product launch of 2025 is the ICM279 fan blower post purge time delay control board which serves as a direct form, fit, and functional air handler control board replacement for the Carrier/ICP brand OEM counterpart.

The ICM279 is a direct form, fit, and functional air handler control board replacement for the Carrier/ICP brand OEM counterpart. Key features include fast drop-in OEM mounting and wiring for PSC or ECM blower motors, factory wiring for inline connector or spade terminal, and inventory reduction due to universal fit.

 

Additional Features and Benefits:

  • Form, fit, and functional replacement for Carrier HK61EA006 and HK61EA002 boards
  • Heavy-duty output relay for inductive loads
  • Purges ducts of residual air
  • Integral short-cycle protection
  • Made in USA

Supporting Documentation:

 

Cross Reference Information:

ICM279 FREE Product Webinar:

Join ICM Controls for our January Webinar featured on the newly launched ICM279 Fan Blower Post urge Time Delay. This webinar is completely FREE and provides an excellent opportunity to boost your product knowledge and get a first-hand look at this form, fit, and function replacement board for the Carrier/ICP brand OEM counterpart.


Click the link to register today!

Heat Pumps and Their Benefits During the Winter Season

What is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a device that is typically fixed outside of your home and is designed to keep your house at a comfortable temperature by moving warm air into your home in the winter and out during the summer. It takes in thermal energy and transfers it from a cold state to a hot state (in the winter months and the opposite in the summer) using a refrigeration cycle.

How does a Heat Pump Work?
Heat pumps take in heat from the air or ground, also known a thermal energy and transfer it into a heat exchanger (tube and fin, shell and tube, or braze plate) that contains liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant works to absorb the outdoor heat and transfer a liquid state into a low-pressure, low-temperature gas.

 

See image below to view the complete cycle:

Different Types of Heat Pumps:
There are roughly four heat pump options to choose from. These include: air-to-air, air-to-water, ground source and water source heat pumps. Below we’ll look at how air-to-air and air source heat pumps work.

Air-to-air heat pumps are one of the most common heat pumps used today. They operate similar to an air conditioning unit. Let’s take a look into some of the options below.

When set in a heating mode the cool air is brought in through the compressor, where refrigerant is kept. This then makes its way into the indoor heat exchanger where cool air is blown in removing some of the thermal energy and providing heat into the room. As this heat is removed, the refrigerant will condense into a liquid and goes into the indoor heat exchanger. This heat exchanger transforms the liquid to a warm gas. The liquid refrigerant will then make its way through the non-return valve (expansion valve), filter, drier and another non-return valve (expansion valve), leaving the refrigerant at a low pressure, low temperature state. The cold refrigerant is then put through the outdoor heat exchanger which blows ambient air over the mixture, warming it up to a boil carrying away the thermal energy.

Air-to-Water Heat Pumps work very similar to a “air-to-air” heat pump but without the reversing valve. The high pressure and high temperature refrigerant passes through a plate heat exchanger and enters into the hot water tank. Cool water enters the heat exchangers through the tank and as it passes through the heat exchanger it absorbs heat from the hot refrigerant and leave the at a higher temperature. As the refrigerant gives up its heat to the exchanger it leaves cool. It then passes through the filter, sight glass, and expansion valve. This now liquid/vapor mixture passes through the outdoor heat exchanger (where ambient air is entered into the system) causing the refrigerant to boil, this refrigerant vapor is then sucked back into the compressor to repeat the cycle. The hot water tank will then push hot water throughout the radiator, sinks and showers throughout.

Is it Too Cold for a Heat Pump to Work in the Winter?
Contrary to most beliefs, air source heat pumps work very well in cooler climates. At about 25 degrees, most heat pumps when installed correctly will still be more efficient than your tradition furnace or boiler.

Things to Consider:
1. Heat pumps don’t burn fossil fuel to create heat, which will help reduce your monthly gas bill as well as assist in preserving our environment.
2. Heat pumps have one of the lowest carbon emissions of any heat source
3. Heat pumps are designed to work efficiently in cold climates such as New York
4. Most heat pumps also double as a cooling system in the summer

December Product Spotlight of the Month

517A Surge Protective Device

 

What is the ICM517A?

The ICM517A is a Type 2 (load side) Surge Protective Device (SPD) designed to protect valuable single-phase equipment by dissipating momentary voltage spikes and transient power surges. The 517 is also equipped with a custom cast aluminum, NEMA 4X rated case so that the homeowner is assured their ICM517Awill endure severe surge conditions better than plastic while protecting their equipment and containing the surge within the enclosure. With 100,000’s of ICM517’s installed in the field, ICM stayed true to the rugged & reliable design of the existing “go to” SPD!

The Details

Below is a list of further details that set our beloved ICM517A apart in the HVAC/R industry:

  • Built to withstand the high impact of a major surge event
  • Constructed in a robust Cast Aluminum enclosure for maximum durability
  • Features a redesigned rivet sealed molded case with an internal gasket
  • NEMA Type 4X rated for indoor/outdoor installation
  • Features a thinner, more compact profile than previous versions
  • Updated to the latest addition of UL Standards, including UL Rated Powder Coating for superior corrosion resistance
  • Withstands effects of prolonged UV exposure better than ABS plastics
  • Easy Install & Proudly Innovated in America

 

For more information on product features and benefits, see our Sell Sheet.

 

Applications & Specifications

The ICM517A specifications are as follows:

Service voltage: 120/240 volt, single phase
Maximum surge current: 100,000 amps
Maximum energy dissipation: 1,020 Joules
Installation point: Electrical panel, electrical disconnect
Diagnostics: Green light indicates surge suppression is present
AC protection modes: L-L, L-N, L-G, N-G
Conduit connection: 3/4”

Weight: 1.18 lbs

Height: 1.75 in

Width: 3.06 in

Length: 5.0 in

 

Applications of the ICM517A include the protection of motors, electronics, air conditioning systems, appliances, refrigeration, and more.

For more information on the ICM517A product applications or specifications, see our Application/Install Guide

 

Limited Lifetime Protection Warranty

The ICM517A is one of our only products that qualifies for a limited lifetime equipment guarantee. For more information on our current warranty, visit our Limited Lifetime Protection Warranty.

 

Watch our Product Training Webinar on the ICM517A

 

 

Interested in Learning More

Reach out to freetrainings@icmcontrols.com to schedule a free product training of your choice for another time.

November Product Spotlight of the Month

 

ICM2818 & ICM2820: Product Spotlight of the Month

This month’s product spotlights are the new ICM2818 & ICM2820 form, fit and function direct replacement furnace boards for manufactured housing.

 

The ICM2818 and ICM2820 are both furnace control board which are designed to control the functions of the furnace including the induced draft blower, circulator blower, gas valve, ignitor, and flame sensor based on inputs from a thermostat and various sensors in the furnace. The ICM2818 and ICM2820 controls will also detect faults and communicate the faults while in service and display the faults through its on-board LED as well as employ a timed safety lockout when the conditions warrant.

 

How these new furnace Control Board Works:

The thermostat first calls for heat by energizing the “W” terminal. The control energizes the induced draft motor and waits for the pressure switch to close and runs the inducer for a 45 second pre-purge time. After the inducer pre-purge, the control energizes the Hot Surface Ignitor. After the Hot Surface Ignitor warm up period, the control energizes the main gas valve. Once the burner lights, flame must be proven by the flame sensor and the Hot Surface Ignitor turns off. Once the flame is proven, the control begins a 30 second On-delay then energizes the main blower at the HEAT speed. When the thermostat demand for heat is satisfied, the control de-energizes the gas valves. The inducer output remains on for a 30 second post-purge period. The indoor blower motor is de-energized after a 120 second blower off delay. Upon a fan call (G) from the thermostat, the cool speed blower will activate.

 

Features that make the ICM2818 & ICM2820 stand out:

  • Controls furnace operation including the function of the induced draft blower, circulating blower, ignition sequence, gas valve, and flame sense
  • Monitors system safeties to properly lock out operation when there is a safety fault
  • Detects and communicates faults using diagnostic LED to aid troubleshooting
  • Form, fit, and functional replacement for the OEM boards listed as a cross

 

Direct Replacements for the Nordyne/Nortek Furnace Models M1M and MG1E:

ICM2820 Specifications:

  • Input:
    • Line Voltage: 120VAC
    •  Control Voltage: 18-30VAC
    • Frequency: 60Hz and 50Hz
    • Fuse Rating: 3 A
  • Output:
    • ECM Output Relay:
      • Heat N.O. – 1A max @ 24 VAC
      • Cool N.C. – 1A max @ 24 VAC
    • Inducer – 1/100 HP (0.69A) @ 120VAC
    • HSI – 6.0A Resistive @ 120 VAC
    • Gas valve – 0.5A @ 24 VAC
  • Environmental:
    • Operating Temperature: -40° to 80°C
    • Storage Temperature: -40° to 85°C
    • Humidity: 5% – 95% R.H. (non-condensing) at +55°C
    • Flame spread: UL # MH 15387 VOL. 1, SEC.10

 

ICM2818 Specifications:

  • Input:
    • Line Voltage: 120VAC
    • Control Voltage: 18-30VAC
    • Frequency: 60Hz and 50Hz
    • Fuse Rating: 3 A
  • Output:
    • Relay Contact Ratings:
      • Heat N.C. – 12 FLA/30 LRA @ 120 VAC
      • Cool N.O. – 13.8 FLA/36 LRA @ 120 VAC
    • Inducer – 0.69A @ 120VAC
    • HSI – 6.0A Resistive @ 120 VAC
    • Gas valve – 0.5A @ 24 VAC
  • Environmental:
    • Operating Temperature: -40° to 80°C
    • Storage Temperature: -40° to 85°C
    • Humidity: 5% – 95% R.H. (non-condensing) at +55°C
    • Flame spread: UL # MH 15387 VOL. 1, SEC.10

 

For more specifications and features of Norydne Replacement Boards click here

Watch our Product Training Webinar on the ICM2818 & ICM2820

Interested in Learning More

Reach out to freetrainings@icmcontrols.com to schedule a free product training of your choice for another time. View our Product Launch Blog as well for a brief overview of Furnace Control Boards.

 

Introducing the NEW ICM2818 & ICM2820

Ready, Set, Replace

With the colder weather just around the corner ICM Controls wants you to be prepared for what’s in store. As we turn our furnaces on for the first time this year it’s important to pay attention to any LED lights that may be blinking on your current control board. This light can provide a first sign that your circuit board needs to be replaced soon.

 

Two types of furnace control boards

There are two types of furnace control boards used in the market today, a simple ignition control module and an integrated furnace control board. A simple ignition control module controls the gas valve, igniter and the flame sensing circuit while, the integrated furnace control boards encompass all the above and more, it also controls the furnace blower.

 

Understanding the Importance of a Furnace Control Board

As the temperatures begin to lower throughout the northern region of the United States furnaces will begin to run. Many of us think of a furnace as a large electrical piece of equipment however, did you know that this large piece of equipment is essentially being operated by a small furnace control board? The furnace control board is the brains of the operation, it tells the furnace when to kick the gas on, triggers the blower motor to turn on and moves air throughout the furnace to ensure it does not overheat, and finally, when your thermostat meets optimal temperature the control board will indicate when to turn off the gas too.

 

Knowing when to Replace Your Furnace Control Board

A furnace control board is a very integral part of the system, and it’s important to know when a replacement is needed. In most cases a furnace control board will have an LED indicator light that will notify you if something is wrong. If the control board’s diagnostic light is blinking, this means your control board has detected an issue with its circuit. If you see visible damage to the board as well such as burn marks or bad wires, this is also an indicate that the board needs to be replaced.

 

What Replacement Can I Use?

Replacements will vary on the type of furnace you own, and ICM Controls offers a quick reference guide for your convenience to assist in finding the best option to suite your needs. However, today we will be highlighting two of our newly launched direct replacement furnace boards for manufactured housing, the ICM2818 & ICM2820. These are direct replacements for the Nordyne/Nortek™ Furnace Models M1M (ICM2818) and MG1E (ICM2820).

  • Provided are the main features of these furnace boards:
    • Controls furnace operation including the function of the induced draft blower, circulating blower, ignition sequence, gas valve, and flame sense.
    • Monitors system safeties to properly lock out operation when there is a safety fault
    • Detects and communicates faults using diagnostic LED to aid in troubleshooting

 

View Our Product Specification:

 

ICM2818

  • Input: 120 VAC, 60 Hz
  • Control Voltage: 18-30 VAC
  • Blower Motor: (M1MA): 1/5 HP (or 1/8), 120 VAC
  • 3-Ton (M1MB): 1/4 HP, 120 VAC
  • 4-Ton (M1MC): 1/2 HP, 120 VAC
  • 5-Ton (M1MD): 3/4 HP, 120 VAC
  • Inducer: 1/100HP (0.69A) @ 120V, 60 Hz
  • HSI: 0A @ 120 VAC, 50/60 Hz (resistive)
  • Gas Valve: 5A @ 24 VAC, 50/60 Hz (resistive)

 

ICM2820

  • Input: 120 VAC, 60 Hz
  • Control Voltage: 18-30 VAC
  • Inducer: 1/100HP (0.69A) @ 120V, 60 Hz
  • HSI: 0A @ 120 VAC, 50/60 Hz (resistive)
  • Gas Valve: 5A @ 24 VAC, 50/60 Hz (resistive)

For additional specifications and information on these products click here.

View Our Product Webinar to Learn More

Interested in Learning more? We have a pre-recorded webinar for the ICM2818 & ICM2820 available for your viewing pleasure on our YouTube channel.

In addition, we also offer product trainings with our experienced team. Reach out to freetrainings@icmcontrols.com to schedule a free product training of your choice today.

The ICM325A: Product Spotlight of the Month

ICM325A: Product Spotlight of the Month

This month’s product spotlight is the ICM325A single-phase Universal Head Pressure Control. This device is designed to control head pressure on a heat pump or HVAC unit by controlling the condenser fan speed, thus allowing the heat pump or air conditioner to operate even when the temperature outdoors is too low for normal operations.

 

Head Pressure Control in Low Ambient Conditions

As the weather begins to drop throughout most of the United States it’s important to ensure our HVAC systems are prepared for this change too. To help our HVAC systems in these cooler climates it’s important to keep your high side pressure up. If head pressures fall too low there will not be enough pressure to operate the system properly, which could lead to short cycling. It is recommended that if you’re running a unit in low ambient conditions that you also have a low ambient control installed to help keep these pressures from falling too low. Without a low ambient control in place, you could run into costly repairs, poor cooling and wasted energy.

 

Stay One Step Ahead with ICM325A

Designed to control head pressure by controlling the condenser fan speed the ICM325A is a useful tool this shoulder season. Using a probe, it senses the condenser temperature or pressure and varies the power output to the condenser fan motor which will cause it to slow down or speed up, ensuring that the unit operates properly.

 

In addition, the ICM325A also Features

  • Inputs for two temperature sensors or two pressure sensors
  • Heat pump bypass for full speed operation in heating mode
  • Jumper selectable cool active reversing valve enabling
  • Jumper selectable control voltage enabling
  • Universal input voltage 120-600 VAC
  • Universal Control voltage 24-240 (jumper enabled)
  • Capable of controlling more than 1 motor to a maximum of 10 amps

Applications & Specifications

  • The ICM325A specifications are as follows:
  • Line voltage: 120 – 600 VAC
  • Control voltage: 24-240 VAC (Jumper enabled)
  • Motor 2 Output: 10A maximum
  • Frequency: 50-60 Hz
  • Operating temperature: -40ºF to +167ºF (-40°C to +75°C)
  • Temperature sensor: ICM386
  • Pressure sensor: ICM380
  • Heat pump reversing valve input: 24-240 VAC (Heat active default / jumper enabled cool active option)
  • Mounting:
    • Surface mount using (4) #8 screws – The ICM325A should be surface mounted to a clean metal or other thermally conductive surface for maximum heat dissipation
  • Motor:
    • The ICM325A is intended to be used with single phase permanent split capacitor motors which are capable of having the input voltage varied.

For more specifications and features click here

Equipped with NFC Technology

The ICM325A allows the user to establish and adjust desired head pressure control parameters using their mobile phone. More impressively, the user can instantly apply the new set-points to the device without the use of wires via NFC Technology.

Download the “ICM Omni” app from the Google Play Store or Apple store Today!

Watch our Product Training Webinar on the ICM325A

Interested in Learning More

ICM Controls has partnered with HVAC Know It All Gary McCreadie who has produced multiple videos highlighting the ICM325A along with its unique features and benefits. We also have a podcast available, where former ICM Controls Regional Sales Manager, Keith Clark and Technical Support, John Fannetti give us the inside scoop on the importance of keeping your high pressure up when temperatures fall below 50 – degrees Fahrenheit.