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Troubleshoot Your Rinnai Gas Heater
The Rinnai brand of gas heaters is known for its efficiency and durability. You can find a Rinnai tankless water heater that comes with a 20-year lifetime warranty. This is great, considering that your Rinnai gas heater is likely to develop issues along the way. Before you call in a professional Rinnai gas heater service, you may wish to try some easy fixes for Rinnai heaters.
That is where this Rinnai gas heater troubleshooting guide comes in handy. For instance, your gas heater may show error codes or symptoms arising from poor maintenance or wear and tear. Even Rinnai water heaters tend to suffer from improper use.
This article will consider some reasons Rinnai heaters may fail to work, steps for troubleshooting, signs of a faulty hot water system, and Rinnai error codes. Moreover, the article will discuss the steps to operate Rinnai water heaters, what the priority button does, and when to call a Rinnai technician.
Reasons Rinnai Water Heaters May Not Work
Below you will find reasons why your water heater may not work.
Faulty high limit switch
The high limit water heater switch may have tripped and prevented the unit from receiving power. It may need replacing.
Gas supply issues
Obstructions, quality of gas, and incorrect pressure are some of the gas supply issues that may prevent the unit from igniting. To fix this, bleed the gas lines, especially if your gas is newly installed. Also, secure the gas connection from the gas control to the heater. Furthermore, check for moisture in the gas lines and see if the gas valve needs replacement.
Moisture damages
Moisture can cause corrosion in the heat exchanger and burner. It could also prevent the unit from lighting. So, ensure wiring and connections stay dry at all times. Ultimately, if they are already damaged from moisture, replace them.
Poorly installed flame rods
A qualified gas technician should properly install flame rods. Each one should touch the fire upon the ignition of the unit. Replace flame rods that are corroded.
Vent system blockages
Debris and sediments can block air intake into the vent system. As such, you should inspect the system, and while at it, check that the vents are not bent and there are no loose connections. Also, examine the vent material, length, and clearances.
Steps For Troubleshooting Rinnai Hot Water System
Your Rinnai hot water system might stop supplying hot water. Also, it could display an error code on the monitor. When this happens, you can take the following steps to troubleshoot your Rinnai gas heater.
When you do not get any hot water
For electric hot water heaters
First, examine the unit’s power supply. See if the “hot water” switch is turned on. Likewise, see if the fuse and circuit breakers on your switchboard are turned on, and there are no short circuits. The same process of checking the power supply applies to Rinnai tankless water heaters.
For gas hot water heaters
Check if the gas supply at the metre is turned on. If it is turned on, then check other gas appliances. After that, light up the gas heater to see if the flame stays lit. If all seems normal, you may move on to other aspects of your gas heater troubleshooting. These other aspects can include checking the gas valves connecting to the water heater.
In the same vein, it may be necessary to check the water supply, pressure, and vent system on the roof for blockages. Also, inspect the flame rods for obstruction. Have the burners cleaned, remove any accumulated condensate, and replace corroded burners.
Meanwhile, your dip switches and manifold pressure should be set accordingly if your location is in a high-altitude area. Furthermore, see if elements and pipes are frozen where the weather is cold. Insulate exposed pipes and cables with an insulation jacket.
Check if you use too much hot water
When you use too much hot water – perhaps for long showers – it can put pressure on your hot water system. Therefore, check your water usage. Take shorter showers and if things do not improve, think about upgrading your water heater.
When the water is too hot or too cold
A faulty thermostat can make your water extremely hot or cold. Similarly, a heating element or tempering valve fault could also cause this problem. A competent gas heater servicing company can perform a gas water heater troubleshooting process and fix the issues promptly.
When the hot water pressure is low
Examine both the cold and hot water taps. Do they all have low pressure, or is it just one tap that has low pressure? Many factors can cause low hot water pressure. These include water leaks in the hot water system, clogged pipes, a broken pressure regulator, or sediment build-up in the water heater.
When water pools around the unit
There may be water leaking out of your hot water cylinder. The leaks can cause a pool of water around the heater. Turn off the gas supply or power supply (electricity supply) and call in a gas heater service company.
Beeping sounds from water heater
A beeping sound from your water heater is a warning that there might be a problem in your heater unit. After the beep, the heater usually shuts off as a safety measure. After that, it displays error codes. Sometimes, the beeping sound could be due to water leakage from the heater.
Have a plumber check the heat exchanger or water pipes and fix the leaks. Other troubleshooting ideas include checking for limescale build-up and ensuring a minimum flow rate of above 5 GPM (Gallons Per Minute) with a 30 PSI (Pounds Per Square Inch) minimum pressure. Finally, also check the fuel level.
NOTE: You should also consider troubleshooting your water heating system when you notice brown coloured hot water, a faulty pilot light, and bubbling or gurgling sounds.
Resetting Rinnai Hot Water Systems
Usually, resetting your water heater may clear Rinnai hot water error codes. To reset Rinnai hot water systems, start by turning off your hot water taps. Check to see if the error code remains. Then, turn off the hot water unit. Next, wait for several seconds and turn the unit on again. Thereafter, check again if the error code still shows. If it does, contact a gas water heating expert.
Rinnai Hot Water Error Code Guide
Rinnai hot water error codes are a self-diagnostic feature that comes with Rinnai’s continuous hot water systems. Rinnai heater error codes flash on the monitor when there is a problem. Such Rinnai water heater error codes are model and brand-specific.
Here is a guide on Rinnai error codes:
Code –
It occurs due to a reduction in water flow. Get a gas technician to clean the inlet water filters.
Code 02
It means that the water heater does not work during freeze mode protection. You should get a professional plumber to look at your system.
Code 03
This flashes when power is interrupted during a bath fill. When power is reinstated, the water does not heat. Turn off all the hot water taps then, press on/off twice. A water heater factory reset can resolve the error.
Code 05
This code corresponds to a fault in the bypass servo and valves. First, turn off the water heater’s power supply. Then, switch it on. Turn on the hot water faucet to heat the unit up. Where the error persists, you replace the bypass valve.
Code 07
This error code indicates there is a fault resulting from the circulation flow dropping below 2.1 GPM. Check to ensure that the water heater is getting power. Your water supply should be 30 PSI, and the pump wiring must not have loose, broken, or damaged connections.
Fix them where necessary. Also, drain the water tank and check for clogs in the inlet filter. Where you have blocked drains, clean or replace them; lastly, the heat exchanger should be descaled and flushed.
Code 10
This indicates that the air intake or flue is blocked. Get a service call to check if the venting material, vent length, and diameter meet Rinnai standards. Also, blockages or loose connections in the venting system should be located and repaired.
Code 11
It occurs when there is no gas supply or ignition. Go to the water heater and check that gas turns on. Do the same at the gas metre or cylinder. Also, you may turn off the water heater and drain the gas lines. Other checks include wiring connections, short circuits in the gas solenoid, and the seat of dip switches and burners.
Code 12
This shows that there is a flame failure or low gas flow. Again, go to the water heater, gas metre, or cylinder and check that the gas is turned on. Also, check for blockage in your flue outlet.
The PC board and flame rod wire should not have loose connections. Likewise, the gas solenoid should not have short circuits, the flame rods should not have debris or blockage, and you should not block the venting system.
Code 13
It indicates abnormal combustion. You should confirm if the vent system is properly installed. The dip switch should be set appropriately to match altitude. Also, a qualified gas technician should check the gas supply inlet and the gas pressure.
Code 14
This indicates you should check the remaining flame safety device. It describes a faulty or overheated thermal fuse. The vent and water flow system may have airflow obstructions. In addition, a qualified gas technician should check the heat exchanger for hard water scaling.
Code 16
This is an overheating warning – a safety shut down because of overheating. There may be a blockage in the combustion chamber, heat exchanger fins, or exhaust pipe.
Code 19
It indicates an electrical grounding fault. Use a multimeter to check for short circuits in unit components. Replace such parts if needed.
Code 21
This shows an incorrect dip switch setting has been detected. Your installer should check the dip switch setting. You may also need to call for a service.
Code 25
Here, a neutraliser tank sensor fault is detected. Also, the condensate pipe, drain line, and tank may be blocked. Ultimately, you may need to replace the sensor and condensate tank.
Code 30
This may indicate that there are flammable vapours. First, turn off the unit’s gas and power. Then, check for damage to the flammable vapour sensor and wiring harness. Replace the sensor if needed.
Code 31
An abnormal burner sensor causes the code. Set the high and low fire manifold pressure and dip switches correctly. Also, the thermocouple milli-volt should be within the specified range.
Code 32
It indicates an outgoing water temperature sensor fault. Again, replace the sensor if it is damaged, blocked, or the problem persists.
Code 41
This is an ambient temperature service fault. You need a service call.
Code 52
A gas modulating valve fault causes this issue. Get a gas technician to come and have a look.
Code 61
This is a combustion fan fault. Likewise, get a service call.
Code 65
It indicates a fault in water flow control – the system does not adequately stop the flow. You should call a gas technician.
Codes 70, 71, and 72
These are microprocessor faults. You should get a service call.
Code X
It indicates that the wireless water controller is out of range because of an obstruction or distance from the transceiver. Remove the obstruction or move the wireless water controller or the transceiver to fix this.
Steps To Operate Rinnai Water Heaters
- You should turn the gas valve clockwise to its ‘on’ position.
- Press the power button to turn on the water heater.
- Now, use the ‘hot water temp’ buttons on the thermostat to set the water temperature.
- Remember, you can switch the temperature scale between Fahrenheit and Celsius. Check to confirm that the water heater is off. Then, press and hold the power (on/off) button down for five seconds.
- Thereafter, turn on any hot water tap. It will automatically light up the burner to provide hot water.
The Role Of The Priority Button On Rinnai Heaters
Located on the temperature controllers, the priority button is in the form of a glowing green LED. Generally, its glow indicates that the thermostat regulates the water temperature. Also, it indicates that the hot water unit is ready to provide hot water. As such, upon turning on hot water taps, the water will come out at your set temperature.
In addition, the priority button is used to lock or unlock the controller. To do so, press the priority button together with the up button simultaneously for five seconds. Thereafter, ‘LOC’ will be displayed. This also activates the temperature setting, and a diagnostic code is turned on. Follow the same process to unlock the controller.
Other Rinnai Gas Appliance Troubleshooting Tips
Rust due to direct sunlight
First, check whether metal parts are rusting or plastic parts are breaking down. These could happen when the equipment is exposed to humidity or direct sunlight.
Heater failing due to blocked filters
Second, see if the filters are clogged. Clogged filters can lead to an increase in temperature leading to abnormal combustion. It is one of the many reasons a Rinnai gas heater may fail to work. Clean the filters regularly, so dirt and debris do not accumulate and impede the heaters’ ability to heat water.
Ensure there is enough working room
Third, does the equipment have enough working space? Due to clothes left on the heater, a blockage can lead to short circuits and fire incidents.
Avoid using a rubber hose
You should not use a rubber hose to connect to the gas heater. Rather, use a proper gas hose. The use of a rubber hose can cause gas leaks, which is extremely dangerous.
Do not use low standard gases
Do not use the wrong type of gas as this might affect the heater’s function. Make sure you only use Liquified Petroleum Gas.
Provide good ventilation
The room where the heater is located should have good ventilation. For Rinnai gas heaters to function well, refresh the indoor air every one or two hours. Simply turn on your fan or open a window. This is important because of health reasons. Incomplete combustion can lead to CO (carbon monoxide) poisoning and possibly, death.
Similarly, do not stay too close to Rinnai hot water systems. Even at minimum temperatures, you can suffer a mild or severe burn if you come too close.
Areas That Need Gas Fitting Services
If you need some gas related services, gas fitters can help out. Such services can be for gas water heaters, gas space heaters, electric panel heaters, gas portable heaters, or portable gas heaters.
The areas they are qualified to address include the following:
- Checking the power supply and any fitted controller.
- Checking the gas supply. For instance, they can turn on the gas stovetop to see if the flame drops.
- Finding out if there is enough water flowing.
- Cleaning filters as part of maintenance.
- Checking error codes on the controllers. The owner’s manual may be used as a troubleshooting guide.
- Inspecting various controls like the thermostat setting, thermostat’s child lock, and heater timer.
Hire A Qualified Professional
Even though you are now equipped with a Rinnai gas heater troubleshooting guide, it is advisable to only attempt general maintenance by consulting your owner’s manual. Meanwhile, for more serious issues, you may invite a licensed professional. These can include electric, gas, and tankless work. Be sure to look for qualified emergency plumbers to provide emergency fixes.
