Noritz Error Code 71: Gas Valve Drive Circuit Abnormality

Severity
Warning
Type
digital display
Where to look
front panel
Estimated repair cost: $200 — $500 (parts + labor)
Warning: Your Noritz water heater is experiencing a gas valve drive circuit issue and has locked out to prevent safety hazards. Call a professional for repair.

How to Fix Noritz Code 71

  1. Step 1: Turn off the power to your water heater at the circuit breaker.
  2. Step 2: Call a licensed HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the issue.
  3. Step 3: Do not attempt to open the water heater or tamper with any internal components.

How to Reset Noritz Code 71

  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 71 Mean?

Error code 71 on your Noritz water heater indicates a problem with the gas valve drive circuit. This circuit controls the gas valve that supplies fuel to the burner. When an abnormality is detected, the unit locks out to ensure safety. Common causes include electrical issues, such as a short circuit or open wire, or problems with the gas valve itself. Don't attempt to fix this issue yourself; always call a licensed technician.

Common Causes

  • Electrical short circuit or open wire in the gas valve drive circuit
  • Faulty gas valve
  • Wiring issues between the control board and gas valve

Diagnostic Steps

If... Check Expected
Error code 71 is displayed Inspect the wiring between the control board and gas valve for any signs of damage or disconnection Intact and securely connected wiring
Wiring appears intact Measure the resistance between the gas valve terminals using a multimeter Resistance within the manufacturer's specified range (consult Noritz service manual)

Applicable Noritz Models

Replacement Parts

Part OEM Number Est. Cost Where to Buy
Gas Valve Assembly
Control Board

Related Codes on Same Models

Other codes that affect the same Noritz model families as 71.

Code Description Severity
10 Flame Failure Warning
11 Ignition Failure Warning
12 Flame Loss 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