Noritz Error Code 51: Fan Motor Failure
Warning: Your Noritz water heater's fan motor has failed, causing the system to shut down. This is not an immediate safety risk, but it does require professional repair.
How to Fix Noritz Code 51
- Check if the power switch is turned on and the circuit breaker is in the ON position
- Listen for any unusual noises coming from the unit, which could indicate a different issue
- Contact a licensed HVAC technician for a professional diagnosis and repair
How to Reset Noritz Code 51
- 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 Noritz Error Code 51 Mean?
The Noritz 51 error code indicates that the fan motor in your condensing tankless water heater has stopped working. This motor is responsible for drawing combustion air into the unit and exhausting the byproducts of combustion out. When it fails, the system automatically shuts down to prevent any potential safety hazards. This error is not typically caused by a simple power issue; it's usually due to a faulty motor or a problem with the motor's control circuit.
Common Causes
- Fan motor failure due to wear and tear over time
- Electronic control circuit failure, causing the motor to stop receiving power
- Blockage in the venting system, causing the motor to overheat and fail
- Incorrect installation or improper venting, leading to excessive motor strain
Diagnostic Steps
| If... | Check | Expected |
|---|---|---|
| Error code 51 is displayed on the control panel | Inspect the fan motor for any visible damage or blockages | No visible damage or blockages |
| Fan motor appears undamaged | Measure the resistance of the motor using a multimeter | Resistance within the manufacturer's specified range (check your owner's manual) |
| Resistance is out of range | Inspect the motor's control circuit for any signs of damage or open/short circuits | No damage or open/short circuits |
Applicable Noritz Models
Replacement Parts
| Part | OEM Number | Est. Cost | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fan Motor Assembly | NOR-100000026 | — | Find Part |
| Control Circuit Board | NOR-100000035 | — | Find Part |
Related Codes on Same Models
Other codes that affect the same Noritz model families as 51.
| Code | Description | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | Flame Failure | Warning |
| 11 | Ignition Failure | Warning |
| 12 | Flame Loss | Warning |
| 14 | Thermal Fuse Failure | Warning |
| 16 | Over-Temperature | Warning |
| 29 | Condensate Drain Issue | Warning |
| 31 | Inlet Thermistor Failure | Warning |
| 32 | Outlet Thermistor Failure | Warning |
| 33 | Heat Exchanger Thermistor Failure | Warning |
| 43 | Water Level/Neutralizer Issue | Warning |