Rheem Error Code A051: Fan Motor Abnormality
Warning: Your Rheem HVAC system has detected an abnormal fan motor condition. It's safe to use, but needs professional attention.
How to Fix Rheem Code A051
- Turn off your HVAC system at the thermostat and the circuit breaker to prevent further operation until a professional arrives.
- Listen for any unusual noises coming from your HVAC unit when it's turned on. This could help your technician diagnose the issue more quickly.
- Contact a licensed HVAC technician to inspect and repair your system.
How to Reset Rheem Code A051
- 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 Rheem Error Code A051 Mean?
The Rheem A051 error code indicates that your HVAC system has identified an unusual operation in the fan motor. This could be due to a variety of reasons, but it's important to have it checked by a professional to prevent potential damage to your system. The fan motor is a crucial component that ensures proper airflow and heat exchange in your HVAC system.
Common Causes
- Worn-out fan motor bearings
- Obstruction in the fan blades
- Loose or damaged fan motor wiring
- Faulty fan motor control board
Diagnostic Steps
| If... | Check | Expected |
|---|---|---|
| Fan motor is running but not spinning | Inspect fan blades for obstructions or damage | No obstructions or damage |
| Fan motor is not running | Measure voltage at fan motor terminals | 120V AC (for gas models) or 24V AC (for electric models) |
Applicable Rheem Models
- NCB(gas)
- NPE(electric)
- R801T(gas)
- R92E(electric)
- R92V(gas)
- RGE(gas)
- RH2T(electric)
- RNC(dual_fuel)
- RNE(electric)
- RNG(gas)
- RP16(electric)
- RPB(gas)
- RTGH(gas)
- Rheem Classic(gas)
- Rheem Classic 80 Plus(gas)
- Rheem Classic 80% Gas Furnace(gas)
- Rheem Classic 90 Plus(gas)
- Rheem Classic Plus Series(gas)
- Rheem Classic Series(dual_fuel)
- Rheem Prestige(gas)
- Rheem Prestige 95% Gas Furnace(gas)
- Rheem Prestige Series(gas)
Replacement Parts
| Part | OEM Number | Est. Cost | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fan Motor Assembly | RHEEM 370050 | — | Find Part |
| Fan Motor Control Board | RHEEM 370051 | — | Find Part |
Related Codes on Same Models
Other codes that affect the same Rheem model families as A051.
| Code | Description | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| A001 | Ignition Failure | Warning |
| A003 | Abnormal Ignition | Warning |
| A004 | False Flame Detection | Warning |
| A008 | Exhaust Temperature High | Warning |
| A011 | No Flame Detected | Warning |
| A021 | Over-Temperature | Warning |
| A031 | Inlet Thermistor Open/Short | Warning |
| A041 | Outlet Thermistor Open/Short | Warning |
| A043 | Water Level Error | Warning |
| A052 | Fan Motor Speed Error | Warning |