Bradford White 4 flashes
Bradford White 4 flashes: high tank temperature
Short answer
Four flashes with a three-second pause means high tank temperature. Bradford White lists the causes as the tank exceeding its set point, a control that is not working properly, or heat coming back into the tank from the plumbing system.
Four flashes is an overheat code. The gas valve detected water hotter than it should be and stopped heating.
Bradford White changed its status codes in January 2019. Units with a serial number date code of TA or later use the newer ICON 2.0 table; older units use ICON 1.0. The first two letters of the serial number on the rating label tell you which one you have.
Common causes
- A control problem. The gas valve is not regulating temperature properly.
- Heat migrating back into the tank. Recirculation systems and some plumbing layouts can push hot water back into the tank.
- Sediment. A heavy sediment layer can create hot spots at the bottom of the tank.
What to do
Overheated water is a scald risk, so have it checked promptly. Do not just turn the dial down and forget it. If the tank rumbles or pops as well, sediment is likely part of the story and the tank may need to be flushed.
Common questions
Can I reset 4 flashes on a Bradford White?
The code points to a real overheating condition. Have a professional find the cause before putting the heater back in normal use.
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Other Bradford White codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 2 flashes | Weak pilot signal (thermopile getting weak) |
| 3 flashes | Water not heating as fast as expected (ICON 1.0) |
| 4 flashes | High tank temperature |
| 5 flashes | Gas valve thermostat sensor fault |
| 6 flashes | Chamber door temperature sensor out of specification |
| 7 flashes | Gas valve electronic fault (ICON 1.0) |
| 8 flashes | Pilot stays lit with the knob off (ICON 1.0) |
| 9 flashes | Tank leak detected by accessory leak sensor |
| 10 flashes | Insufficient combustion air detected |