When a tankless water heater starts flashing error codes, most people aren’t sure what to do next. These units are known for their efficiency and reliability, but like any appliance, they can run into problems now and then. Understanding what an error code means can help cut down guesswork and lower the chances of bigger inconveniences later on. Whether it’s a clogged filter or low water pressure, a blinking display usually means the system is trying to tell you something important.
In Santa Rosa Beach, this issue tends to pop up more often during high-usage months when hot water demand is at its peak. Between multiple showers, laundry, and dishwashing, even a well-installed unit can become strained. Local water conditions and how often the unit runs can also play a part. Tackling these error codes properly is key to keeping your hot water available when you need it most. If the system shows signs of trouble, having a clear idea of what the code means and what causes it can help you act faster and smarter.
Common Error Codes in Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters display various error codes to signal what went wrong. While every manufacturer uses its own system of alerts, a handful of codes are seen more often, especially in homes throughout Santa Rosa Beach. Below are some of the common codes homeowners tend to run into and what they usually point to:
1. Error Code 10 – Blocked Exhaust or Air Supply
This code typically means the airflow is restricted. It could be due to debris blocking the vent or something interfering with the air intake.
2. Error Code 11 – Ignition Failure
This error tells you the unit tried to ignite but failed. It might be a gas supply issue, malfunctioning igniter, or dirty burner.
3. Error Code 16 – Overheating
When the heat exchanger temperature gets too high, this code appears. It could be due to scale buildup or restricted water flow.
4. Error Code 29 – Condensate Drain Failure
This one is related to improper or clogged condensate drainage, usually found in condensing units.
5. Error Code 90 – Combustion Abnormalities
Poor gas combustion or flame issues trigger this alert. This may relate to fuel quality, incorrect venting, or sensor problems.
6. Error Code 61 or 65 – Fan Motor Failures
If the fan inside the unit that moves air across the burner fails or lags, it can cause the water heater to shut down for safety.
In Santa Rosa Beach, code 10 and code 16 tend to be reported more frequently. That’s because moist, sandy conditions in this coastal city can cause venting issues or add to mineral deposits inside the unit. Homeowners using well water also face different challenges, including harder water and sediment concerns, which can influence error codes such as 16 and 29.
Understanding which code you’re seeing and the likely reason behind it can help you avoid damage and save time. It also gives our technicians a head start in diagnosing and fixing the issue quickly.
Main Causes Behind Tankless Water Heater Error Codes
Once an error code appears, the cause usually ties back to a few shared problems. The good news is they’re often manageable with the right approach. Environmental factors in Santa Rosa Beach and general wear both contribute to these codes.
Common causes include:
– Mineral buildup: Hard water causes scaling, especially around the heat exchanger. This interrupts normal operation, often setting off codes related to overheating.
– Blocked airflow or venting: Coastal air can carry fine sand, salt, and moisture, which may clog air intake or exhaust tubing.
– Improper drainage: If the unit can’t release condensate properly, it triggers shutdown to prevent corrosion or electrical problems.
– Inconsistent gas supply: If the gas pressure drops, igniter issues occur, especially during peak use or aging gas components.
– Dirty or worn parts: Igniters, fans, and sensors can become less effective over time, especially if routine maintenance isn’t performed.
Santa Rosa Beach homes sometimes experience changes in water quality due to seasonal rains or local supply sources. These fluctuations can introduce more minerals or sediment into the water heater. Without regular flushing, buildup accumulates faster, which not only triggers errors but can reduce unit longevity.
Older homes that have upgraded to tankless heaters may also need updated venting to prevent moisture and airflow interruption. Poor installation or using incorrect vent sizes helps explain why units in some properties experience regular shutdowns due to code 10 or 90.
Preventing these problems usually comes down to solid installation and consistent care. When units are maintained yearly and flushed regularly, it reduces scaling, keeps fans working, and helps sensors perform reliably. If your tankless water heater keeps signaling the same code, it often points to a deeper issue that hasn’t been resolved, not just a one-off glitch. Regular maintenance and proper system setup from the beginning help prevent most error codes from becoming chronic problems.
Steps to Take When an Error Code Appears
When your tankless water heater in Santa Rosa Beach flashes an error code, don’t ignore it. Taking the right steps early can help prevent damage and downtime. First, locate the unit’s display panel and write down the code. This number gives a clue about what’s going wrong and helps our technicians diagnose the issue faster.
Once you’ve noted the code, turn off the unit. Keeping it running while there’s a system fault can cause unnecessary strain or even lead to internal damage. Make sure water flow to the unit is also shut off. Then check for any obvious issues, like blocked vents or debris near the intake area. If it’s safe and easy to do, clear anything that might be in the way. Nothing should ever be forced or opened without training.
Here’s what to do when you see an error code:
– Turn off the water heater immediately to stop potential damage
– Write down the complete error code from the display
– Check the surrounding area for blockages like dust, sand, or leaves
– Look around the condensate drain and exhaust tube for pooling water or buildup
– Avoid resetting the system multiple times, as this may hide the problem temporarily
Sometimes, a temporary fix like unplugging and plugging the system back in might clear the error for a short while. But if the root issue isn’t resolved, the problem will come back. That’s where our professionals step in. Whether it’s a recurring ignition fault or a fan motor problem, trained technicians will perform a full inspection and explain what’s needed so you aren’t left guessing.
Waiting too long to address codes like 16 or 90 can lead to overheating or combustion issues. In places like Santa Rosa Beach where salt and moisture are constantly in the air, corrosion may also develop faster. It’s better to address error codes promptly rather than deal with more expensive failures later.
Preventive Maintenance to Avoid Future Errors
The best way to avoid dealing with error codes is to keep maintenance consistent. Tankless water heaters need attention, especially in climates like Santa Rosa Beach. Mineral deposits build slowly but can block water flow in a matter of months without flushing. The key is staying proactive with inspections and upkeep.
Here are some practical tips that help reduce shutdowns and alerts:
– Flush the unit at least once a year to remove scale, especially if the water is hard
– Clean filters and inlet screens monthly during high-use seasons
– Keep vent openings and the surrounding area free of sand, grass clippings, or pest nests
– Inspect the condensate drainage regularly to make sure it’s clear and angled correctly
– Have our technicians run a full check yearly that includes burner inspection, fan testing, and control calibration
Santa Rosa Beach homeowners using well water might need servicing more often because of higher mineral content. If that’s the case, try installing a pre-filter system. Short-term fixes won’t solve the real issues if the source water is too hard. Pairing regular flushing with filtered input extends your heater’s life and keeps it running without interruption.
Maintenance isn’t just about preventing annoyances. It keeps your heater clean inside and allows the system to run safely. That matters when you’re relying on it daily for showers, laundry, or dishes. Instead of reacting when something breaks, taking simple steps like annual checks or periodic cleaning can save time and frustration later.
Ensuring Reliable Hot Water in Santa Rosa Beach
Error codes on tankless water heaters are often signs of preventable problems. From scale buildup and clogged vents to faulty ignition parts, the most common causes are fixable if caught early. In humid, coastal places like Santa Rosa Beach, staying ahead of these issues with proper care is even more important due to moisture and sediment build-up.
The steps you take after seeing an error, shutting down the unit, noting the code, and having it checked by our professionals, can make the difference between a quick fix and a system breakdown. Being aware of your unit’s surroundings, installing it correctly, and doing regular service checks are the most reliable ways to keep things running.
Seasonal demands don’t always give a break, especially during nonstop summer use. Keeping your unit clean and letting our technicians handle any warning signs will ensure consistent hot water without the headaches. When your system works as it should, you don’t have to think twice. That’s the goal: quiet, reliable, no-surprise performance year-round.
For reliable performance in Santa Rosa Beach, it is important to address error codes quickly and schedule regular inspections with our professionals, so your system lasts longer and runs safer. If you want to learn more about maintaining efficient and long-lasting tankless water heaters in Santa Rosa Beach, Affordable Air McCallum LLC is here to help. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.
