Have you ever encountered error code 12 on your Rheem tankless water heater? It’s frustrating when your water heater suddenly stops working, especially if you’re in the middle of a hot shower. But fear not, we’re here to help you troubleshoot and fix this issue.
Error code 12 on a Rheem tankless water heater indicates a flame failure. But what causes this flame failure? Is it something you can fix on your own? Or do you need to call a professional? Let’s dive into the details and find out.
Key Takeaways:
- Error code 12 on a Rheem tankless water heater means there is a problem with the flame sensor.
- Possible causes of error code 12 include a dirty or defective flame sensor, improper gas supply, insufficient gas pressure, gas lines that are too small, or clogged venting.
- To troubleshoot error code 12, you can clean the flame sensor, ensure proper gas supply and pressure, check the sizing of gas lines, and inspect the venting for blockages.
- If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with troubleshooting, it’s best to contact a professional for help.
- Regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent error code 12 and other issues with your tankless water heater.
Rheem Tankless Water Heater Error Codes and Their Meanings
Rheem tankless water heaters are equipped with error codes to help users diagnose and troubleshoot issues. Understanding these error codes can save you time and effort in identifying and resolving problems with your tankless water heater. One common error code is code 12, which indicates a flame failure. However, Rheem tankless water heaters have a range of error codes that cover various potential issues.
Error Code 12: Flame Sensor Failure
Error code 12 on a Rheem tankless water heater points to a problem with the flame sensor. The flame sensor is responsible for detecting the presence of a flame when the heater is in operation. If the flame sensor is dirty or defective, it may fail to detect the flame, resulting in a shutdown of the unit and the display of error code 12.
To troubleshoot this issue, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power to the water heater.
- Locate the flame sensor, which is typically positioned near the burners.
- Check if the flame sensor is dirty or covered in soot. If it is, gently clean it using a soft cloth or fine-grit sandpaper.
- After cleaning the flame sensor, turn the power back on and check if the error code persists. If it does, you may need to replace the flame sensor.
Aside from error code 12, Rheem tankless water heaters may display other error codes that signify different issues related to gas supply, gas pressure, or venting. Here are some additional error codes and their meanings:
| Error Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Code 11 | No ignition or loss of flame during operation. Check gas supply, gas pressure, and ignition components. |
| Code 13 | Flame detected when there should be no flame present. Check for obstructions in the venting system. |
| Code 14 | Ignition failure during operation. Possible causes include gas supply issues, gas pressure problems, or faulty ignition components. |
| Code 79 | High-temperature cutoff has been activated. Ensure proper ventilation and check for blockages in the heat exchanger. |
These are just a few examples of the error codes you may encounter with your Rheem tankless water heater. It’s important to refer to the manufacturer’s manual or contact a professional if you require further assistance in diagnosing and resolving error codes specific to your model.
Conclusion
When troubleshooting a Rheem tankless water heater with error code 12, there are several important factors to consider. The first step is to check the flame sensor and clean it if necessary. A dirty or defective flame sensor can cause the error code 12 to appear.
Next, ensure that the gas supply is not blocked and that there is sufficient fuel in the tank. A blocked gas supply or insufficient fuel can prevent the water heater from igniting properly, resulting in the error code 12.
Additionally, it is crucial to check the gas pressure and make any necessary adjustments. Insufficient gas pressure can prevent the water heater from operating effectively, leading to the error code 12.
Lastly, inspect the venting system for any blockages and remove them if needed. Proper venting is crucial for the safe operation of the water heater. A clogged venting system can cause the error code 12 to occur.
If you are unsure or uncomfortable with troubleshooting your Rheem tankless water heater, it is always best to contact a professional. They have the expertise and knowledge to safely diagnose and repair the issue, ensuring that your water heater operates efficiently and reliably.
FAQ
How do I fix error code 12 on my Rheem tankless water heater?
Error code 12 on a Rheem tankless water heater indicates a flame failure. To troubleshoot this issue, follow these steps:
1. Check if the flame sensor is dirty and clean it if necessary.
2. Ensure that the gas supply is not blocked and that there is sufficient fuel in the tank.
3. If the gas pressure is insufficient, adjust it accordingly.
4. Make sure that the gas lines are properly sized for the BTU load of your water heater.
5. Check the venting for any blockages and remove them if necessary.
What do Rheem tankless water heater error codes mean?
Rheem tankless water heaters have various error codes, each indicating a different issue. Here is a comprehensive list of the error codes and their meanings:
– Error code 10: Air supply or exhaust blockage.
– Error code 11: Ignition failure.
– Error code 12: Flame failure or dirty flame sensor.
– Error code 13: Overheating.
– Error code 14: Ignition failure during standby.
– Error code 15: Overheating due to scale build-up.
– Error code 16: Over temperature.
– Error code 17: Overcurrent.
– Error code 18: Internal communication error.
– Error code 19: Fan motor abnormality.
– Error code 20: Thermal fuse failure.
– Error code 24: Water flow sensor fault.
– Error code 25: Heat exchanger thermistor fault.
– Error code 29: Condensate drain tamper.
It’s important to consult the manufacturer’s manual or contact a professional if you encounter any of these error codes.
Should I try to fix the error code 12 issue on my Rheem tankless water heater myself?
While it is possible to troubleshoot and fix the error code 12 issue on your Rheem tankless water heater yourself, it is recommended to contact a professional if you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process. They have the expertise and knowledge to safely diagnose and repair the issue.
How can I prevent error code 12 from occurring on my Rheem tankless water heater?
To prevent error code 12 from occurring on your Rheem tankless water heater, it is important to perform regular maintenance. Here are some preventive measures:
– Clean or replace the flame sensor regularly to ensure proper operation.
– Ensure that the gas supply is not blocked and that there is sufficient fuel in the tank.
– Monitor the gas pressure and adjust it if necessary.
– Make sure that the gas lines are properly sized for the BTU load of your water heater.
– Regularly check the venting for any blockages or obstructions.
By following these preventive measures, you can minimize the chances of encountering error code 12 on your Rheem tankless water heater.
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