Rheem is long known for being one of the greatest water heater manufacturers in the industry. However, there is nothing like perfection in this world. If you have ever encountered error code 13 in your Rheem, you probably wonder what it is about.
Lucky you, we’ve got the tricks for dealing with the error code 13.
As a seasoned HVAC professional, I have encountered and resolved this issue multiple times. For instance, one of my clients faced repeated error code 13 issues due to a clogged exhaust vent. By following the troubleshooting steps below, we were able to identify and clear the blockage, restoring the water heater’s functionality.
Error Code 13 on Rheem Tankless Water Heater
What happens if your Rheem tankless water heater keeps shutting off error code 13? If you are new to owning a Rheem water heater in the house, you should know that Rheem error codes help you understand what errors happen inside the machine. Rheem tankless water heater error code 13 isn’t provided without any means.
It turns out that this code expresses ‘Flame Rod: poor or improper combustion. If this code happens to appear on your water heater, you can check these things below:
Read also: Noritz Tankless Water Heater Troubleshooting
- Check both of the exhaust venting and air intakes. Are those installed correctly and working well? It is important not to let the exhaust recirculate the air.
- Inspect and dismiss blockage from the exhaust venting. Check it, especially at the end of the venting; if possible, free it from any logjam.
- Recheck whether the altitude settings are right and reflect your location.
- Inspect the Flame Rod FL-24
- Or, check the blower motor for any dysfunction.
Rheem Error Codes
Just like purchasing another water heater, when you purchase a Rheem water heater, you should have been given the manual book that comes with the bundle. This book contains a list of error codes that help you troubleshoot the water heater’s problem.
Read also: Noritz Tankless Water Heater Error Codes 14 and 90
There are many error codes and various troubleshooting techniques. It is best to refer to the manual and do as advised. That said, it is best not to work on it yourself if you are advised to call a professional.
Before fixing your water heater, it is important to ensure it is free from any electric current while troubleshooting. Then, you can do those aforementioned tricks. It’s best to encompass your troubleshooting to the first and second tricks, which are:
Rheem Tankless Water Heater Troubleshooting
If you ever encounter error code 13 from your Rheem tankless water heater, troubleshooting is a great way to find the source of the problem. Although it is much easier to call a professional to fix this issue directly, it will cost you less if you can detect it yourself.
If you see this error code, your tankless water heater will usually be shut off immediately. This may happen after several months of purchasing your water heater, and this issue may be repetitious.
Before fixing your water heater, it is important to ensure it is free from any electric current while troubleshooting. Then, you can do those aforementioned tricks.
It’s best to encompass your troubleshooting to the first and second tricks, which are:
- Recheck whether the exhaust venting and the air intake are working properly. If they are out of order, they can cause improper combustion inside the machine.
- The second trick is to check for any blockage in the exhaust venting. In addition, inspect and find whether deposits are found in the flame rods. If this occurs, make sure to dismiss the deposits thoroughly. Most people will be advised to clean the hard-to-access thermocouples with fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool. You may also want to get a replacement for your flame rod.
Personal Experience: A client once reported that their Rheem tankless water heater frequently showed error code 13. Upon inspection, we found that the flame rod was dirty and causing improper combustion. Cleaning the flame rod resolved the issue immediately.
Those are some methods you can apply to eliminate Rheem tankless water heater error code 13. As advice, check your water heater condition routinely; cleaning the burner, igniter, and thermocouple (flame rods) can be a good trick to avoid getting error code 13.
Maintenance Tips to Avoid Error Code 13:
- Regular Maintenance: Clean air intake and exhaust vent periodically.
- Proper Installation: Ensure adherence to national, local, and manufacturer codes.
- Environmental Considerations: Install the water heater in a well-ventilated area.
Troubleshooting Table
| Issue | Action |
|---|---|
| Improper Vent Installation | Tighten the wiring or replace the sensor. |
| Clogged Vent | Clear any obstructions in the vent. |
| Gas Supply Problems | Verify and adjust gas pressure; check for blockages. |
| Dirty Burners | Clean the burners or burner orifices. |
| Dirty Combustion Sensor | Clean or replace the sensor. |
| ODS Sensor Issues | Tighten wiring or replace the sensor. |
| Restricted Water Inlet Filter | Clean the water inlet filter. |
You may also consider calling customer service so that you won’t get lost while fixing it.
