Rinnai Error Code 79: Fan Current Detection
Warning: Your Rinnai water heater is experiencing a fan current issue. It's safe to troubleshoot, but call a professional if you're unsure.
How to Fix Rinnai Code 79
- Check for any visible damage or disconnection in the fan wiring
- Ensure the fan is not clogged with debris or lint
- If safe to do so, try resetting the unit by turning off the power at the breaker, waiting 30 seconds, then turning it back on
How to Reset Rinnai Code 79
- 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 Rinnai Error Code 79 Mean?
Error code 79 on your Rinnai water heater indicates a problem with the fan current. The fan is crucial for venting combustion gases and maintaining proper operation. This error might be due to a faulty fan, fan motor, or wiring issue. The digital display will show '79' and the unit will lockout, preventing hot water production until the issue is resolved.
Common Causes
- Faulty fan motor
- Wiring issue between the fan and control board
- Clogged fan or venting system
- Control board malfunction
Diagnostic Steps
| If... | Check | Expected |
|---|---|---|
| Fan is not spinning | Fan motor resistance using a multimeter | Less than 10 ohms |
| Wiring is intact and fan motor is good | Control board for error codes or signs of damage | No visible damage or error codes |
Applicable Rinnai Models
- CU(gas)
- HE(dual_fuel)
- HE++ Series(gas)
- I-SERIES(gas)
- NCB(gas)
- NPE(gas)
- RE(gas)
- REP(gas)
- RL(gas)
- RU(gas)
- RUCS(gas)
- RX(gas)
- RXP(gas)
- Rinnai NCB Series(gas)
- Rinnai NPE Series(gas)
- Rinnai R Series(gas)
- Rinnai RL Series(natural_gas)
- Rinnai RU Series(natural_gas)
- Rinnai RUR Series(gas)
- Rinnai VSP(gas)
- V(gas)
Replacement Parts
| Part | OEM Number | Est. Cost | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fan Motor | RIN-100142800 | — | Find Part |
| Control Board | RIN-100142700 | — | Find Part |
Related Codes on Same Models
Other codes that affect the same Rinnai model families as 79.
| Code | Description | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| 02 | Stagnant Water Detection | Warning |
| 10 | Air Supply/Exhaust Blockage | Warning |
| 11 | No Ignition | Warning |
| 12 | Flame Failure | Warning |
| 14 | Thermal Fuse | Warning |
| 16 | Over-Temperature | Warning |
| 19 | Electrical Grounding | Warning |
| 25 | Condensate Overflow | Warning |
| 29 | Condensate Neutralizer | Warning |
| 31 | Inlet Thermistor Failure | Warning |