Bradford White HVAC Error Codes: Complete Diagnostic List
9 diagnostic codes documented · Official site ↗
🟡 Warning — Schedule Service
Sensor Fault
The F1 error code on your Bradford White tankless water heater indicates a problem with one of the temperature sensors. These sensors are responsible for monitoring the water temperature at various points within the unit to ensure safe and efficient operation. The F1 code specifically points to a fault in either the inlet or outlet thermistor. When the control board detects an abnormal reading or a complete failure from one of these sensors, it shuts down the unit to prevent potential overheating or other damage. This is a safety feature to protect the unit and your home. Because the unit has locked out, you will not have hot water until the problem is resolved.
Thermistor Short
The F10 error code on your Bradford White tankless water heater indicates a short circuit in one of the thermistors. A thermistor is a type of resistor that changes its resistance with temperature. Your water heater uses thermistors to monitor the water temperature at various points in the system to ensure safe and efficient operation. When the control board detects a short, it shuts down the unit to prevent potential damage or overheating. This isn't necessarily dangerous in the short term, but it does mean your water heater won't operate until the problem is resolved.
Thermistor Open
The F11 error code on your Bradford White tankless water heater indicates that the unit's control board isn't receiving a signal from one of its thermistors. Thermistors are temperature sensors that monitor the water temperature at various points within the unit. An 'open' circuit means the electrical connection between the thermistor and the control board is broken, like a cut wire. Because the control board can't read the temperature, it shuts down the heater as a safety measure to prevent overheating or other potential issues. This error prevents the unit from operating until the problem is resolved. Essentially, the water heater's brain (the control board) can't 'see' the temperature it needs to, so it's playing it safe by not allowing the unit to fire up. This could be due to a faulty sensor, a wiring problem, or even a problem with the control board itself.
Blower Failure
The F16 error code on your Bradford White tankless water heater indicates a problem with the blower motor. The blower motor is responsible for providing the correct amount of air to the burner for combustion. When the system detects that the blower isn't operating correctly (or at all), it shuts down for safety. This prevents incomplete combustion, which could lead to carbon monoxide production or other issues. This error can be triggered by a few different things, ranging from a simple blockage in the venting to a complete failure of the blower motor itself. Because the water heater relies on the blower to operate safely, it's important to address this issue promptly. Ignoring the error could lead to further damage or even create a hazardous situation.
Dry Fire Protection
The F2 error code on your Bradford White tankless water heater indicates a 'Dry Fire Protection' lockout. This safety feature is triggered when the unit detects the burner is firing, but water flow is insufficient to cool it. Basically, the heater is getting too hot, which can damage the heat exchanger and other components. This is a protective measure to prevent serious damage. It's important to address this issue promptly to avoid further problems and ensure the longevity of your water heater. The unit will likely require a reset after the issue is resolved.
🔴 Critical — Shut Down Immediately
Ignition Failure
The F13 error code on your Bradford White tankless water heater means the unit tried to light the burner but failed. This usually happens after a few attempts, and the system locks itself out as a safety measure. The control board monitors the flame sensor to confirm ignition. If the flame sensor doesn't detect a flame within a specific timeframe after the igniter sparks and the gas valve opens, it throws this error. This is a critical issue because unburnt gas can accumulate, creating a dangerous situation.
Flame Failure
The F14 error code on your Bradford White tankless water heater means the system tried to light the burner, but the flame wasn't detected or went out unexpectedly during operation. This is a safety feature that shuts down the unit to prevent unburned gas from accumulating. Several things can cause this, but it always means the heater isn't producing hot water and there's a potential safety concern if gas is leaking. It's important to address this quickly to restore hot water and ensure your home is safe.
High Temp Cutoff
The F4 error code on your Bradford White water heater indicates that the high temperature limit switch has tripped. This safety device is designed to shut off the gas supply to the burner if the water temperature exceeds a safe level, typically around 190°F (88°C). When this happens, the heater locks out to prevent further operation until the issue is resolved. This is a critical safety feature, and the underlying cause needs to be identified and corrected to prevent potential scalding, damage to the unit, or even a dangerous situation like a steam explosion. Essentially, something is causing the water to overheat. This could be a problem with the thermostat not regulating the burner correctly, a blockage preventing proper water flow, or even a faulty high-limit switch itself. Because this involves gas and high temperatures, it's important to address this issue promptly and safely.
Flammable Vapor Lockout
The F6 error code on your Bradford White water heater indicates a 'Flammable Vapor Lockout.' This is a serious safety concern. The unit's control system has detected the presence of flammable vapors near the burner and has shut down to prevent a potential fire or explosion. This safety feature is designed to protect you and your home. Specifically, the gas control valve has locked out and will not allow the burner to ignite. This lockout is triggered by the FV sensor (flammable vapor sensor) detecting a concentration of flammable vapors above a safe threshold. The system is designed to remain locked out until the issue is resolved and manually reset by a qualified technician. Continuing to try and reset the unit without addressing the underlying cause is dangerous.