Bradford White Error Code F6: Flammable Vapor Lockout
How to Fix Bradford White Code F6
- Step 1: Immediately shut off the gas supply to the water heater at the shut-off valve on the gas supply line.
- Step 2: Do not attempt to relight the water heater. Do not use any electrical switches or devices that could create a spark.
- Step 3: Open windows and doors to ventilate the area.
- Step 4: Evacuate the premises and call a qualified HVAC technician or your gas provider from a safe location.
How to Reset Bradford White Code F6
- Turn off the unit using the power button on the front panel.
- Turn off the gas supply valve.
- Turn off the circuit breaker supplying power to the unit. Wait 30 seconds.
- Restore power at the breaker, then open the gas valve.
- 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 F6 Mean?
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.
Common Causes
- Gas leak near the water heater (natural gas or propane)
- Spilled flammable liquids (gasoline, solvents, paint thinner) near the unit
- Malfunctioning FV (flammable vapor) sensor
- Improper venting, causing flue gases to back up into the room
- Leak in the gas line or gas valve within the unit
Diagnostic Steps
| If... | Check | Expected |
|---|---|---|
| Gas odor is present | Use a gas leak detector to pinpoint the source of the leak. | No gas leak detected. |
| No gas leak is detected | Inspect the FV sensor wiring and connections for damage or corrosion. | Wiring and connections are intact and secure. |
| Wiring is good | Measure the FV sensor resistance with a multimeter. Refer to the Bradford White technical manual for the correct resistance range for your model. | Resistance within specified range. |
| FV sensor is suspect | Check the vent system for obstructions or damage. | Vent is clear and properly installed. |
Applicable Bradford White Models
Replacement Parts
| Part | OEM Number | Est. Cost | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flammable Vapor Sensor | 265-46788-00 | — | Find Part |
| Gas Control Valve | — | — | — |
| Thermocouple | — | — | — |
Related Codes on Same Models
Other codes that affect the same Bradford White model families as F6.
| Code | Description | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| F1 | Sensor Fault | Warning |
| 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 |