Bradford White Error Code F14: Flame Failure
Warning: This error indicates a flame failure, which could be due to a gas leak or carbon monoxide risk. Shut down the unit immediately and call a qualified technician.
How to Fix Bradford White Code F14
- Step 1: Ensure all gas appliances are working (e.g., stove). If other gas appliances aren't working, there may be a gas supply issue. Contact your gas company immediately.
- Step 2: Check the heater's vent for any visible obstructions (snow, leaves, debris). Clear any blockages if safely accessible from the ground.
- Step 3: Reset the water heater by turning off the power at the breaker for 30 seconds, then turn it back on. If the error persists, call a qualified technician.
How to Reset Bradford White Code F14
- Turn off the unit using the power button on the front panel.
- Turn off the gas supply valve.
- Turn off the circuit breaker supplying power to the unit. Wait 30 seconds.
- Restore power at the breaker, then open the gas valve.
- Turn the unit back on. If the error returns, the underlying issue needs repair.
Resetting clears the code from the display but does not fix the underlying fault. If the code returns after reset, proceed to the diagnostic steps above.
What Does Bradford White Error Code F14 Mean?
The F14 error code on your Bradford White tankless water heater means the system tried to light the burner, but the flame wasn't detected or went out unexpectedly during operation. This is a safety feature that shuts down the unit to prevent unburned gas from accumulating. Several things can cause this, but it always means the heater isn't producing hot water and there's a potential safety concern if gas is leaking. It's important to address this quickly to restore hot water and ensure your home is safe.
Common Causes
- Gas supply interruption (e.g., gas valve closed, low gas pressure)
- Faulty flame sensor (dirty, mispositioned, or defective)
- Igniter failure (not igniting the gas)
- Blocked vent or air intake (restricting combustion air)
- Malfunctioning gas valve (not opening properly)
Diagnostic Steps
| If... | Check | Expected |
|---|---|---|
| Unit displays F14 error after attempting ignition | Measure gas supply pressure at the unit's gas valve test port | Within the range specified on the unit's rating plate (typically 5-10" WC for natural gas) |
| Gas pressure is within range | Inspect the flame sensor rod for cleanliness and proper positioning in the flame | Clean rod, properly positioned to be engulfed in the flame |
| Flame sensor appears clean and positioned correctly | Measure the flame sensor microamp signal during burner operation using a multimeter | Typically 2-10 uA DC (refer to the service manual for the exact range) |
| Low or no microamp signal | Check the igniter for proper spark during startup | Visually confirm a strong, consistent spark at the burner |
Applicable Bradford White Models
Replacement Parts
| Part | OEM Number | Est. Cost | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flame Sensor | — | — | — |
| Igniter | — | — | — |
| Gas Valve | — | — | — |
Related Codes on Same Models
Other codes that affect the same Bradford White model families as F14.
| Code | Description | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| F1 | Sensor Fault | Warning |
| F10 | Thermistor Short | Warning |
| F11 | Thermistor Open | Warning |
| F13 | Ignition Failure | Critical |
| F16 | Blower Failure | Warning |
| F2 | Dry Fire Protection | Warning |
| F4 | High Temp Cutoff | Critical |
| F6 | Flammable Vapor Lockout | Critical |