Noritz Error Code 12: Flame Loss

Severity
Warning
Type
digital display
Where to look
front panel
Estimated repair cost: $100 — $250 (parts + labor)
Warning: Your Noritz water heater is experiencing a flame loss issue, which could lead to system damage if not addressed promptly.

How to Fix Noritz Code 12

  1. Step 1: Check your gas supply. Ensure that your gas is turned on and that there are no leaks.
  2. Step 2: Inspect the area around your water heater for any signs of damage or obstruction that could be preventing the burner from igniting.
  3. Step 3: If you're comfortable doing so, you can try resetting the water heater. Otherwise, contact a professional HVAC technician.

How to Reset Noritz Code 12

  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 Noritz Error Code 12 Mean?

Error code 12 on your Noritz water heater indicates a flame loss issue. This means that the burner is not igniting or maintaining a flame, which could be due to a few reasons. The most common causes are a faulty igniter, a problem with the gas valve, or an issue with the thermocouple. It's important to note that this error can also be caused by a lack of gas supply or a clogged burner.

Common Causes

  • Faulty igniter
  • Problem with the gas valve
  • Issue with the thermocouple
  • Lack of gas supply
  • Clogged burner

Diagnostic Steps

If... Check Expected
Water heater is not producing hot water Measure the voltage at the igniter using a multimeter 120V AC
Igniter is functioning properly Inspect the gas valve for any signs of damage or obstruction No damage or obstruction
Gas valve is functioning properly Check the thermocouple for any signs of damage or disconnection No damage or disconnection

Applicable Noritz Models

Replacement Parts

Part OEM Number Est. Cost Where to Buy
Igniter Noritz 8701010000
Gas Valve Noritz 8701020000
Thermocouple Noritz 8701030000

Related Codes on Same Models

Other codes that affect the same Noritz model families as 12.

Code Description Severity
10 Flame Failure Warning
11 Ignition Failure Warning
14 Thermal Fuse Failure Warning
16 Over-Temperature Warning
29 Condensate Drain Issue Warning
31 Inlet Thermistor Failure Warning
32 Outlet Thermistor Failure Warning
33 Heat Exchanger Thermistor Failure Warning
43 Water Level/Neutralizer Issue Warning
45 Water Leak Detected Warning