Bradford White Error Code F1: Sensor Fault

Severity
Warning
Type
digital display
Estimated repair cost: $100 — $250 (parts + labor)
Warning: The water heater has shut down due to a sensor fault. You will not have hot water until the issue is resolved.

How to Fix Bradford White Code F1

  1. Step 1: Reset the water heater by turning off the power at the breaker for 30 seconds, then turn it back on. This may clear a temporary fault.
  2. Step 2: Check the wiring connections on the outside of the unit for any obvious signs of damage or corrosion. Do not open the unit.
  3. Step 3: If the error persists after resetting, contact a qualified HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the problem.

How to Reset Bradford White Code F1

  1. Turn off the unit using the power button on the front panel.
  2. Turn off the gas supply valve.
  3. Turn off the circuit breaker supplying power to the unit. Wait 30 seconds.
  4. Restore power at the breaker, then open the gas valve.
  5. Turn the unit back on. If the error returns, the underlying issue needs repair.

Resetting clears the code from the display but does not fix the underlying fault. If the code returns after reset, proceed to the diagnostic steps above.

What Does Bradford White Error Code F1 Mean?

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.

Common Causes

  • Faulty inlet thermistor
  • Faulty outlet thermistor
  • Loose or corroded wiring connections to the thermistors or the main control board
  • Defective main control board

Diagnostic Steps

If... Check Expected
Unit displays F1 error Measure resistance of inlet thermistor at the control board connector Resistance should match the temperature/resistance chart in the service manual. Typically around 10k ohms at room temperature.
Inlet thermistor checks out Measure resistance of outlet thermistor at the control board connector Resistance should match the temperature/resistance chart in the service manual. Typically around 10k ohms at room temperature.
Both thermistors read correctly Inspect wiring harness and connectors between thermistors and the control board for damage or corrosion Wiring and connectors are intact and free of corrosion.
Wiring is good and thermistors appear faulty Check voltage to the board Appropriate voltage to the board

Applicable Bradford White Models

Replacement Parts

Part OEM Number Est. Cost Where to Buy
Inlet Thermistor
Outlet Thermistor
Main Control Board

Related Codes on Same Models

Other codes that affect the same Bradford White model families as F1.

Code Description Severity
F10 Thermistor Short Warning
F11 Thermistor Open Warning
F13 Ignition Failure Critical
F14 Flame Failure Critical
F16 Blower Failure Warning
F2 Dry Fire Protection Warning
F4 High Temp Cutoff Critical
F6 Flammable Vapor Lockout Critical