Rheem Error Code A081: Water Flow Control Error
Warning: Your Rheem HVAC system has detected a water flow issue, which could lead to system damage if not addressed.
How to Fix Rheem Code A081
- Check the water supply line for any kinks or blockages
- Inspect the water filter and replace it if necessary
- If the issue persists, contact a professional HVAC technician
How to Reset Rheem Code A081
- 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 A081 Mean?
The A081 error code on your Rheem HVAC system indicates a water flow control issue. This could be due to a blockage in the water flow, a faulty water flow switch, or an issue with the system's water pump. It's important to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage to your system.
Common Causes
- Blockage in the water flow due to debris or mineral buildup
- Faulty water flow switch
- Issue with the system's water pump
Diagnostic Steps
| If... | Check | Expected |
|---|---|---|
| Water flow switch is not functioning | Measure the resistance across the switch terminals | Resistance should be within the manufacturer's specified range |
| Water pump is not running | Measure the voltage at the pump's electrical terminals | Voltage should be present when the system is in cooling mode |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Flow Switch | RHEEM 30-5385 | — | Find Part |
| Water Pump | RHEEM 30-5386 | — | Find Part |
Related Codes on Same Models
Other codes that affect the same Rheem model families as A081.
| 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 |
| A051 | Fan Motor Abnormality | Warning |