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Understanding Noritz error codes and troubleshooting Noritz water heaters. Find out the most common problems in Noritz water heaters, the symptoms, and fixing tips.
Every Noritz tankless water heater, either outdoor or indoor model, can be connected to the remote controller, and when the problems occur, it displays the error codes on the screen, which helps users and technicians to fix the problem.
The error codes are represented by the two-digit numbers, such as the 10, 11.... 99, and the display and operation light will flash together when the failure occurs. The following text gives information about the most common problems and the error codes displayed on the remote controller.
It will be assumed that the water heater is installed correctly, with the correct gas type, and per codes. The tools needed to solve the problems from below are mainly the screwdriver, manometer, and voltmeter.
Noritz tankless water heaters have many advanced features and elements that are connected and controlled by the electronic board, so it is required to have knowledge and skills for a successful repair.
Problem: Service warning.
Solution: This is not an error code but is the automatic service reminder that informs you that it is time to call the Noritz licensed technician. Do not reset the water heater error code before the service; otherwise, the unit might fail prematurely.
Problem: The error code 10 shows the problem in gas combustion that causes the power level to drop while the burning continues even after shutdown.
Solution: Check for foreign materials found on the burner, which is burning after gas combustion stops. To reset the error code 10, the power must be disconnected. If there is a recirculation loop, use an aquastat to keep 10 degrees differential.
Did you know that even one mistake during installation can cause a serious fire or even an explosion!
Problem: Ignition fails.
Solution: Make sure that the gas pressure has a correct value and per manufacturers specs., there are no obstructions in venting and the flame rod is clean, together with the ignition plug.
Problem: Burner flame loss during operation; flame rod does not detect a flame.
Solution: Check for the incoming gas pressure. Remove any obstructions in the venting system. Clean the ignition plug and flame rod.
Problem: Thermal fuse failure.
Solution: Replace the thermal fuse if you see an error code 14. Make sure that the water heater has no restriction in air flow and gas burns properly. Also, check the water quality as the poor quality may affect the heat exchanger function and lead to the element replacement unless flushed on time.
Problem: Extremely high water temperature.
Solution: Your Noritz water heater might need descaling due to the sediment and limescale build-up. Manifold pressure might require an adjustment.
Problem: Activation of the high limit switch.
Solution: Check if the high limit switch is working as it should. Remove the limescale that causes the high temperature of hot water.
Problem: High water level in the neutralizer and clogging.
Solution: Make sure the draining is proper, so there is no clogging of the condensate drain pipe. The water level sensor on the neutralizer must be free of moisture so the pipe will not freeze.
Problem: Problem with the inlet thermistor.
Solution: Replace the inlet thermistor.
Problem: Problem with the outlet thermistor.
Solution: Replace the outlet thermistor.
Problem: Heat exchanger thermistor malfunction.
Solution: Replace the thermistor.
Problem: Low input BTU, problems with the combustion.
Solution: The gas combustion chamber does not get enough fresh air, or the products of combustion are not vented fully because of the blockage in vents. Remove any blockage in venting. Clean the fan motor and burner chamber. Also, the water heater should be adjusted for the right height elevation.
Problem: Faulty fan motor.
Solution: Measure the incoming voltage. Check and replace if needed the fan motor or circuit board.
Problem: Problem with the bypass flow control valve.
Solution: If there is a blockage of bypass servo, correct it. If the element is not operating correctly, replace it.
Problem: Faulty circuit board.
Solution: Replace the circuit board.
Problem: Gas valve drive circuit abnormality.
Solution: The error code 71 happens if the water heater is connected to the battery backup, solar power, or generator and if there is a fluctuation in voltage supply. Check the voltage from the circuit board due to the damage.
Problem: The flame rod detects the flame without the ignition sequence.
Solution: The unit must have proper grounding. Check if there is damage to the circuit board and flame detection circuit.
Problem: The problem with the circuit board setting.
Solution: Reset the heater by disconnecting the power and check the circuit board programming.
Problem: The communication error for the multi-system.
Solution: Disconnect the power to reset the unit and make sure that the connecting cord is not damaged.
Problem: Problems with the remote controller.
Solution: Reset the unit, check the wire connections and make sure that only one controller is connected.
Problem: Gas combustion problem.
Solution: Make sure the flame color is light blue (yellow tips are allowed). Remove any blockage in the flue vent.
Did you know that ventilation is vital for gas water heaters – for airflow and to eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Problem: Neutralizer life cycle alert.
Solution: A neutralizer must be replaced if its lifecycle is about to end; also, you must reset the burner timer.
If you see that fixing the Noritz water heater is hard, takes too much time and money, and before contacting one or more professional technicians, get some free quotes from your local plumbers (if applicable) to know what to expect.