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Ed Barber Posted on Feb 25, 2013
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Error codes The vacation and C light are on indicating "Flammable vapors present". Have two units side by side and the other is working fine. Replaced the FV Sensor, but cannot get heater to restart. Lights stay on. Tried turning breaker off and then back on.

1 Answer

Bonded Repair

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  • Master 407 Answers
  • Posted on Feb 25, 2013
Bonded Repair
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IIf main burner is comming on then going off you may have dirty flame sensing rod,if no main burner flame it may be bad gas valve.

5 Related Answers

David Shaub

  • 2994 Answers
  • Posted on Sep 03, 2009

SOURCE: ECO failure. Replaced the gas control thermostat & vapor sensor

It sounds like your gas/air mixture needs to be adjusted. The flame should have just the slightest amount of white, at the very tip. The rest should be evenly blue. There is an air vent adjustment in the line to the burner, right after the gas input.

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A

Anonymous

  • Posted on Oct 25, 2010

SOURCE: I have a GPVH 40 100 AO smith hot water heater.The

AO smith manuals
http://www.hotwater.com/lit/im/r-gas.html

GPVH series manual
http://www.hotwater.com/lit/im/res_gas/315465-000.pdf
You can search the manual for FV

The FV sensor shorted because it detected flammable gas

Quote manual:
Flammable liquids (such as
gasoline, solvents, propane (LP or butane, etc.) and other substances
(such as adhesives, etc.) emit flammable vapors which can be ignited
by a gas water heater's hot surface igniter or main burner. The
resulting flashback and fire can cause death or serious burns to anyone
in the area. This water is equipped with a FV sensor for detecting the
presence of flammable vapors, see Figure 3. When the sensor detects
those vapors, the unit will shut down and not operate. Should this
happen, please refer to the troubleshooting guide on pages 28-30.

Troubleshoot step 14-15 says
replace the FV sensor
call tech assistance number that shows on water heater
AO Smith will refer you to a plumber
I don't believe homeowner can buy these parts due to Federal regulations
The shorted FV sensor probably saved you a flash-over
The cost of 2nd degree burns from a flash-over would be astronomical.
Fortunately you're ok, and the other folk in the room are ok.
In the old days.
Two guys I knew, winter 1978 Chicago, were laying VA tile using the black mastic.
They were killed and the house burned down because of the water heater.
Main office marked the event with a memo saying they still owed money on their account.

The only company with a re-settable FVIR that I'm aware right now is Bradford White
http://www.thetankatwaterheaterrescue.com/forums/forum3/2679.html
http://411plumb.com/bradford-white-defender-water-heater-review
Bradford White Defender FVIR is resettable without buying parts.
324e006.jpg

A

Anonymous

  • Posted on Apr 19, 2011

SOURCE: water hearer gas valve locked

If water heater has FV event, check your manual for re-setting procedure.
Look at label on side of tank for brand and model number of your water heater:
http://waterheatertimer.org/Water-heater-manufacturers.html
My understanding is that Bradford White has resettable FVIR but all other manufacturers require service technician for part replacement.

I have found one internet thread that covers do-it-yourself FV.
http://www.diychatroom.com/f7/rheem-hot-water-heater-pilot-burner-not-staying-lit-65755/

I also posted same question on water heater forums, and nobody will answer 'due to liability concerns.'
This leads me to believe there are serious safety issues that could lead to manufacturer and-or plumber liability since FV-lock-out mandates were written to reduce widespread insurance property and casualty losses.

A

Anonymous

  • Posted on Aug 11, 2011

SOURCE: my water heater say i have flammable vapors

Contact Rheem
http://www.rheem.com/Contact.aspx
1 800 432 8373
Locate product information on label on side of tank.

Typical manuals say if lockout occurs, then refer to gas valve codes and/or troubleshoot section:
http://globalimageserver.com/fetchDocument.aspx?id=a92c7d0e-8a95-48ba-8810-cd714f33d47a
http://globalimageserver.com/fetchDocument.aspx?id=80b1d50e-695f-49ac-9aae-3e9489ef1e5a

For example the manual says:
1. Verify no gasoline or flammable
vapors are present
2. Reset control using ON/OFF switch
on the gas control valve
3. Replace the flammable vapor sensor
http://waterheatertimer.org/images/Wiper-FVSensor-100.jpg
http://waterheatertimer.org/pdf/Rheem-Parts-Guide.pdf
http://waterheatertimer.org/pdf/Rheem-parts-list.pdf

Gene Haynes

  • 5391 Answers
  • Posted on Oct 01, 2012

SOURCE: hot water heater womt light, flammable vapor sensor code

Most likely: Combustion chamber got too hot because air intake is clogged with dust, causing less air to flow upward through vent pipe ... the slowed flow of air caused combustion chamber to overheat.

What brand and model water heater?
Look at label on side of unit and add comment.
Otherwise call service tech to repair/ replace water heater and clean arrestor screen (air intake) and replace or reset parts as needed, depending on model number and brand water heater.

AO Smith, Bradford white, and Rheem are main manufacturers.
Each has slightly different repair protocol, and each gas control valve can also be different. So more information is needed.

Identify gas control valve:
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-troubleshoot-gas-water-heater.html#intellivent
Rheem TRD/ FVIR glass vial
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-repair-Rheem-FVIR.html
How to remove combustion parts to inspect for Rheem glass vial and clean arrestor screen located under combustion chamber:
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-replace-thermocouple.html

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/gene_9f0ef4df2f9897e7

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Related Questions:

0helpful
1answer

Hot water heater womt light, flammable vapor sensor code

Most likely: Combustion chamber got too hot because air intake is clogged with dust, causing less air to flow upward through vent pipe ... the slowed flow of air caused combustion chamber to overheat.

What brand and model water heater?
Look at label on side of unit and add comment.
Otherwise call service tech to repair/ replace water heater and clean arrestor screen (air intake) and replace or reset parts as needed, depending on model number and brand water heater.

AO Smith, Bradford white, and Rheem are main manufacturers.
Each has slightly different repair protocol, and each gas control valve can also be different. So more information is needed.

Identify gas control valve:
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-troubleshoot-gas-water-heater.html#intellivent
Rheem TRD/ FVIR glass vial
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-repair-Rheem-FVIR.html
How to remove combustion parts to inspect for Rheem glass vial and clean arrestor screen located under combustion chamber:
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-replace-thermocouple.html

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/gene_9f0ef4df2f9897e7

1helpful
1answer

Detecting gas and won't light

Open following link for troubleshoot error codes showing 7 flashes on Honeywell gas control valve is system lockout due to flammable vapor:
http://waterheatertimer.org/pdf/Honeywell-gas-control_error-Damper-series.pdf
The FV system in Rheem can be tripped by presence of flammable vapors such as gasoline or paint fumes etc, or it can be tripped if water heater was dropped, or mis-manufactured, or if gas control valve is defective, or if water heater is not getting adequate fresh air, or there is inadequate venting of combustion by-product.
When combustion chamber overheats, then glass vial breaks and damper shuts off air supply to water heater and it will not light.
Open following link for possible help fixing the problem:
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-repair-Rheem-FVIR.html

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/gene_9f0ef4df2f9897e7

0helpful
1answer

My water heater say i have flammable vapors present and is locked out how can i reset it or fix it there are no vapors present

Contact Rheem
http://www.rheem.com/Contact.aspx
1 800 432 8373
Locate product information on label on side of tank.

Typical manuals say if lockout occurs, then refer to gas valve codes and/or troubleshoot section:
http://globalimageserver.com/fetchDocument.aspx?id=a92c7d0e-8a95-48ba-8810-cd714f33d47a
http://globalimageserver.com/fetchDocument.aspx?id=80b1d50e-695f-49ac-9aae-3e9489ef1e5a

For example the manual says:
1. Verify no gasoline or flammable
vapors are present
2. Reset control using ON/OFF switch
on the gas control valve
3. Replace the flammable vapor sensor
http://waterheatertimer.org/images/Wiper-FVSensor-100.jpg
http://waterheatertimer.org/pdf/Rheem-Parts-Guide.pdf
http://waterheatertimer.org/pdf/Rheem-parts-list.pdf
2helpful
1answer

I have a GPVH 40 100 AO smith hot water heater.The FV (flammable vapor) sensor has been setoff from us painting the floor yesterday. How do I reset the unit?

AO smith manuals
http://www.hotwater.com/lit/im/r-gas.html

GPVH series manual
http://www.hotwater.com/lit/im/res_gas/315465-000.pdf
You can search the manual for FV

The FV sensor shorted because it detected flammable gas

Quote manual:
Flammable liquids (such as
gasoline, solvents, propane (LP or butane, etc.) and other substances
(such as adhesives, etc.) emit flammable vapors which can be ignited
by a gas water heater's hot surface igniter or main burner. The
resulting flashback and fire can cause death or serious burns to anyone
in the area. This water is equipped with a FV sensor for detecting the
presence of flammable vapors, see Figure 3. When the sensor detects
those vapors, the unit will shut down and not operate. Should this
happen, please refer to the troubleshooting guide on pages 28-30.

Troubleshoot step 14-15 says
replace the FV sensor
call tech assistance number that shows on water heater
AO Smith will refer you to a plumber
I don't believe homeowner can buy these parts due to Federal regulations
The shorted FV sensor probably saved you a flash-over
The cost of 2nd degree burns from a flash-over would be astronomical.
Fortunately you're ok, and the other folk in the room are ok.
In the old days.
Two guys I knew, winter 1978 Chicago, were laying VA tile using the black mastic.
They were killed and the house burned down because of the water heater.
Main office marked the event with a memo saying they still owed money on their account.

The only company with a re-settable FVIR that I'm aware right now is Bradford White
http://www.thetankatwaterheaterrescue.com/forums/forum3/2679.html
http://411plumb.com/bradford-white-defender-water-heater-review
Bradford White Defender FVIR is resettable without buying parts.
324e006.jpg
3helpful
1answer

Flammable sensor is lit and won't go off. I replaced the sensor how do i reset the controller?

Certain water gas water heater models feature electronic controls with a flammable vapor sensor installed on the bottom portion of the water heater unit. This sensor is designed to shut off your water heater system to prevent fires in case flammable vapors are present within the area. If your flammable vapor sensor caused your water heater to shut down, check the area immediately for leaking gas or other flammable products. Common household chemicals such as bleach can also trip the safety system as well as unsuccessful burner ignition attempts. I'm not sure what control your unit has, but on a White Rodgers here's how it goes.


White Rodgers Intelli-Vent PowerVent Control Equipped Models
  1. Step 1 Turn the water heater's blower switch off and disconnect the power cord for the water heater (refer to your particular model's operation guide for the exact location of the blower switch). Disconnect the Molex connector attached to the bottom of the control pad (the left most connector with five pins).
  2. Step 2 Turn on your multi-meter and set it to read resistance or "ohms". Connect one of the multi-meter's probes to the number two pin and the other probe to the number three pin of the Molex connector (middle black wires). If the reading on your multi-meter reads below 9k or above 45k ohms, the flammable vapor sensor is faulty and in need of replacement; you cannot reset the system until this issue is resolved.
  3. Step 3 Reconnect the Molex connector to the bottom of the control pad, reconnect the water heater's power if and turn the blower switch to the "ON" position. Press both the left and right buttons on the control pad at the same time. Wait for the green light on the control pad to blink and press the following buttons in sequence: Left, Right, Left, Left, Right, Left, Right, Right (you will need to perform these actions within 30 seconds of reconnecting the power cord to the water heater in order to be successful
5helpful
1answer

Basement was flooded when washer inlet hose burst. Approx 6 in of water in the area where the water heater stands. Complaint of no hot water, no pilot flame. Attempt to light pilot successful but pilot...

Certain Rheem water gas water heater models feature electronic controls with a flammable vapor sensor installed on the bottom portion of the water heater unit. This sensor is designed to shut off your water heater system to prevent fires in case flammable vapors are present within the area. If your flammable vapor sensor caused your water heater to shut down, check the area immediately for leaking gas or other flammable products. Common household chemicals such as bleach can also trip the safety system as well as unsuccessful burner ignition attempts.


White Rodgers Intelli-Vent PowerVent Control Equipped Models
  1. Step 1 Turn the water heater's blower switch off and disconnect the power cord for the water heater (refer to your particular model's operation guide for the exact location of the blower switch). Disconnect the Molex connector attached to the bottom of the control pad (the left most connector with five pins).
  2. Step 2 Turn on your multi-meter and set it to read resistance or "ohms". Connect one of the multi-meter's probes to the number two pin and the other probe to the number three pin of the Molex connector (middle black wires). If the reading on your multi-meter reads below 9k or above 45k ohms, the flammable vapor sensor is faulty and in need of replacement; you cannot reset the system until this issue is resolved.
  3. Step 3 Reconnect the Molex connector to the bottom of the control pad, reconnect the water heater's power if and turn the blower switch to the "ON" position. Press both the left and right buttons on the control pad at the same time. Wait for the green light on the control pad to blink and press the following buttons in sequence: Left, Right, Left, Left, Right, Left, Right, Right (you will need to perform these actions within 30 seconds of reconnecting the power cord to the water heater in order to be successful
4helpful
2answers

Hosed basement floor. soaked flamable vapor sensor. Removed and dried sensor. control now in lockout. How do you get control out of lockout???

    Certain Rheem water gas water heater models feature electronic controls with a flammable vapor sensor installed on the bottom portion of the water heater unit. This sensor is designed to shut off your water heater system to prevent fires in case flammable vapors are present within the area. If your flammable vapor sensor caused your water heater to shut down, check the area immediately for leaking gas or other flammable products. Common household chemicals such as bleach can also trip the safety system as well as unsuccessful burner ignition attempts.


    White Rodgers Intelli-Vent PowerVent Control Equipped Models
  1. Step 1 Turn the water heater's blower switch off and disconnect the power cord for the water heater (refer to your particular model's operation guide for the exact location of the blower switch). Disconnect the Molex connector attached to the bottom of the control pad (the left most connector with five pins).
  2. Step 2 Turn on your multi-meter and set it to read resistance or "ohms". Connect one of the multi-meter's probes to the number two pin and the other probe to the number three pin of the Molex connector (middle black wires). If the reading on your multi-meter reads below 9k or above 45k ohms, the flammable vapor sensor is faulty and in need of replacement; you cannot reset the system until this issue is resolved.
  3. Step 3 Reconnect the Molex connector to the bottom of the control pad, reconnect the water heater's power if and turn the blower switch to the "ON" position. Press both the left and right buttons on the control pad at the same time. Wait for the green light on the control pad to blink and press the following buttons in sequence: Left, Right, Left, Left, Right, Left, Right, Right (you will need to perform these actions within 30 seconds of reconnecting the power cord to the water heater in order to be successful).
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