Richmond Power Vent Water Heater Error Codes [7 Easy Solutions]

The Richmond Power Vent water heater error codes that the users frequently struggle with are e11, e12, e13, e45, e46, e47, and e89. Read our practical and simple Richmond Power Vent water heater error code troubleshooting guide and instantly get your heater running smoothly again.

Richmond Power Vent Water Heater Error Codes [7 Easy Solutions]

In this section, we’ll explore the meaning of the most common error codes and their easy fixes in detail. So, let’s get started…

1. Error Code 11

This error code shows up when your Richmond Power Vent water heater has an ignition failure or lockout.

Insufficient gas supply, unstable pilot, carbon buildup on electrode or wire/pilot tube damage are the probable reason behind this error code appearing on your screen.

Solution:

An easy way to tackle this error code is to ensure a steady gas supply. Check whether there is an issue with your gas line. Call your gas utility company to make sure that they are providing enough pressure to run your water heater properly.

If your problem is still not fixed, the pilot light is the culprit. You need to replace it. 

2. Error Code 12

Error code 12 represents a low flame signal. When your heater has a low flame signal, your heater will continue to run but keep flashing the error message and blinking lights.

Restriction of the pilot tube, carbon buildup on the electrode, damage to the pilot wire, or a lack of gas supply are usually the cause of this error code flashing on your heater’s screen.

Solution:

You need to examine your gas supply. It is most likely lower than needed. You need to adjust the manifold pressure to fix this issue.

A low voltage supply may also be the reason behind your problem. Check the sides of your heater to learn the required voltage to run it.

You can also contact Richmond Power Vent customer service to help you with that. Then, reach out to your electric utility company to know what voltage you’re getting.

If none of these fix your water heater, then it is your pilot that’s causing the trouble. You’ll need to replace it. 

3. Error Code 13

When the pilot flame is lost, you’ll get this error code. Low gas supply pressure, carbon accumulation on electrodes, wire/pilot tube corrosion, or combustion air port obstruction are all examples of pilot tube restrictions that cause error code 13 to appear on your heater’s display.

Solution:

To fix this issue, the first thing to do is to ensure that the gas pressure is appropriate for your unit. Your unit’s jacket air holes need to be checked for obstruction.

Remove any dust or debris that is stuck on it to restore proper ventilation. In case the error persists, you may need to replace the pilot assembly.

4. Error Code 31

In case of a TCO limit lockout, this error code shows up. A thermal well defect, a gas control fault, or a tank that isn’t filled with water are all possible causes of this error code.

Solution:

Here are the steps you can take to remove this error code:

1. Check for correct valve cycling after resetting the valve.
2. Inspect to see whether the tank is full of water.

5. Error Code 45

When the pressure switch or limit switch is stuck on open this error code will show. Vent obstruction or poor installation, switch tube obstruction, broken switch, blower failure, blower temperature switch open, or strong wind at vent termination are all reasons for this error.

Solution:

Here are some of the things that work to get rid of this error code:

• Ensure that the wiring of the pressure switch is done correctly.
• Inspect whether the pressure switch is damaged. Change the pressure switch if required.
• Unclog blocked air intake or exhaust.
• In case your temperature switch on the blower is damaged, replace it.
• The blower may need a replacement. Test the blower first before replacement.
• Check for vent termination compliance.

6. Error Code 47

The meaning of error code 47 is a flammable vapor sensor lockout. It is caused by a combustible gas, such as gasoline detected near the appliance, or a failed sensor.

Solution:

The following solutions should work for you:

1. Check for the presence of gasoline or flammable fumes. 
2. Reset the control using the ON/OFF switch on the gas control valve.
3. Replace the flammable vapor sensor with a new one.

7. Error Code 89

When there is a fault detected in the temperature sensor, this error code will flash on your display. There is a fault with your thermal wall if this error code is showing up.

Solution:

First, you should check the thermal well’s wiring connection. Ensure that it is done correctly. Make adjustments if necessary. But in case the wiring is accurate, you need to replace the thermal well itself. 

FAQ:

What causes the reset button to trip on a gas water heater?

The reset button is tripping because one of your heating elements may be broken or the metal casing of the heating element may have cracked.

How do I know if my thermocouple is bad on my water heater?

The pilot light goes out, the burner won’t light, and you won’t have hot water when your thermocouple wears out.

Why is my hot water heater not getting hot?

It could be a minor problem like a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker if your electric water heater isn’t producing hot water. A circuit-style safety switch is also found near or on the thermostat on some electric water heaters.

How do I stop my heater from tripping the breaker?

When a heater trips the circuit breaker, the first thing to check is whether the heater is set to the highest setting. Reset the breaker and try using it on a lower setting.

Why is my electric water heater keep turning off?

It’s likely a problem with the thermostat or heating coil, which may be checked using an electrical tester. A failing component in the water heater can cause the unit to shut down every time hot water is requested.

Conclusion

Now that you know exactly how you can remove Richmond Power Vent Water Heater error codes, your heater will run smoothly. In case you have any questions, leave us a comment below.

Enjoy the hot water!