Bradford White heat pump water heater
Bradford White AeroTherm (RE2H…-1NCTT models) error codes
Covers: AeroTherm Series heat pump water heater, previous generation (RE2H50S*-1NCTT, RE2H65T*-1NCTT, RE2H80T*-1NCTT; sold as RE2H50S10/RE2H65T10/RE2H80T10 and Bradford White Connect versions RE2H50S10-CON/RE2H65T10-CON/RE2H80T10-CON)
Every code listed in Bradford White's own manual for this series, with what it means and what Bradford White says to do. Last checked 2026-10-03.
Is this your model? The I&O manual 238-52169-00C cover lists models RE2H50S*-1NCTT, RE2H65T*-1NCTT, RE2H80T*-1NCTT. Bradford White's documentation page lists this manual under both 'AeroTherm® Series Heat Pump' and 'AeroTherm® Series Heat Pump with Bradford White Connect™'. Spec sheets 1902 (RE2H50S10, RE2H65T10, RE2H80T10) and 1901 (with -CON Connect models) are on the same page. Control (manual page 5): 3-digit display with mode LEDs (Heat Pump (Only), Hybrid, Electric (Only), Vacation), MODE, UP/DOWN, ENTER and FILTER buttons, and a red filter light. Fault codes are letter-prefixed (F2-F24, FC-FL, 'bAd linE'). Connect units use an external Bradford White Connect adapter (manual 238-54090-00A).
| Code | Label | What the manual says it means |
|---|---|---|
| FC | Control checks to ensure evaporator is free of frost. Continuously verifies that T3a sensor (evaporator inlet temperature) is greater than 20°F after 30 minutes of run time. | |
| Fd | Control checks to ensure evaporator superheat is OK (controlled by EEV). Continuously verifies the temperature difference between T3a sensor (evaporator inlet temperature) and T3b sensor (evaporator outlet temperature) is greater than 5°F after 30 minutes of run time. Control also verifies that T3a is greater than 10°F less than T5 ambient sensor. | |
| FE | Control checks to ensure the compressor discharge temperature never exceeds 240°F. Continuously verifies that T4 sensor (compressor outlet temperature) is less than 240°F every minute of run time. | |
| FF | Control checks to ensure the EEV is operating properly and valve rotation is within range. | |
| FI | Control checks to ensure evaporator superheat is <20°F AND the EEV position is <450 after 30 minutes of run time. If outside these limits, this provides an early indication of a refrigerant leak. (Note: Target superheat is generally 10°F, and EEV generally operates at a position much lower than 450). [On some models] | |
| FJ | Control checks to ensure that the AC current draw is ≤ 20.5A while the compressor and lower heating element are both enabled. If current draw is > 20.5A, the compressor will be disabled. | |
| FL | Control checks to ensure that T3 and T3b evaporator inlet and outlet temperatures are within 2.5°F of the T5 ambient temperature 20 minutes after defrost begins. | |
| F2 | T2 tank temperature sensor failure. Just before compressor starts, control checks T2 sensor is within 30°F - 170°F temperature range. | |
| F3 | Compressor failure. Control energizes compressor, but current sensor detects no current flow. | |
| F4 | Fan failure. | |
| F5 | T3a sensor (evaporator inlet temperature) failure. The control detects the thermistor output is at or nearly shorted or open circuit. | |
| F6 | T3b sensor (evaporator outlet temperature) failure. The control detects the thermistor output is at or nearly shorted or open circuit. | |
| F7 | T4 sensor (compressor outlet) failure. The control detects the thermistor output is at or nearly shorted or open circuit. | |
| F8 | T5 sensor (ambient temperature) failure. The control detects the thermistor output is at or nearly shorted or open circuit. | |
| F9 | Lower heating element failure. Control energizes lower element, but current sensor detects no current flow. | |
| F10 | Upper heating element failure. Control energizes upper element, but current sensor detects no current flow. | |
| F11 | Dry tank fault. This test is run within the first 22 minutes after the water heater has powered on (the compressor is engaged for 20 minutes after a 2 minute wait for the high and low side pressures to equalize). The tank temperature, T2, is read and verified it has not risen more than 5°F. If it has, this indicates there is not enough water in the tank for water heater operation. After 1 failed dry tank test, "F11" is displayed. After 5 failed tests, an audible alarm will sound. | |
| bAd linE (F12) | The voltage is too low at power-up. The control monitors the input line voltage one minute after power-up, and if the voltage is below 155 VAC, the fault code will be displayed. | |
| F13 | Stuck key fault. This indicates there is a button on the front panel that is stuck down. This button is inoperable. Other buttons work normally. If the button becomes free, the fault code will clear by itself. | |
| Dirty Filter (F14) | Filter LED is on, and audible alarm is sounding. Filter is too dirty to enable proper function of water heater. Number of "Dirty Filter" counts are stored in the "F14" code and can be monitored via the control when it is placed in Diagnostics Mode. The evaporator is operating at a colder temperature than the ambient temperature as measured by T5. | |
| F15 | DataFlash fault. The microcontroller has detected a problem in the DataFlash (permanent memory storage). | |
| F16 | Anode Depleted. Anode LED is on, and the audible alarm is sounding. The control has calculated that the anode rod has been mostly consumed, or the time in operation has exceeded the replacement timeline threshold. [On some models] | |
| F17 | Anode Depletion miswire condition or shorted to ground. The control has detected that the anode circuit has a corrosion current signal ≤0.25mA. [On some models] | |
| F18 | Current transformer miswired. F3, F9, and F10 fault codes have all occurred during the same heating cycle. | |
| F19 | Low line voltage. | |
| F20 | Condensate drain port blocked. Water heater will only operate in standard/electric mode until the drain port is cleared and the sensor is no longer in contact with water. | |
| F21 | Application Update Failure. A problem occurred while updating the control application. | |
| F22 | Parametric Data Update Failure. A problem occurred while updating parametric data. | |
| F23 | Micro A/D Failure. The control has detected a microcontroller input port has failed. | |
| F24 | T1 tank temperature sensor failure. Just before compressor starts, control checks T1 sensor is within 30°F - 170°F temperature range. |
Bradford White's manual for this series does not list error codes; see the troubleshooting section below.
Safety first
- If the water heater has been subjected to flood, fire, or physical damage, turn off power and water and do NOT operate it again until it has been thoroughly checked by qualified service personnel. (p.3)
- Do NOT use this appliance if any part has been submerged in water. (p.3)
- DANGER: Shut OFF power to the water heater before draining water to avoid risk of shock. (p.23)
- DANGER: Before manually operating the relief valve, make certain no one will be exposed to the hot water released; it may be hot enough to scald. (p.23)
- CAUTION: For your safety, do NOT attempt to repair the water heater or any of its parts. Refer any repairs to a qualified service technician. (p.22)
- Fault codes should only be used to help identify components which require testing. Never replace a part based solely on a fault code. The control can generate a false fault if the right conditions exist. (p.28)
- Scalding may occur within 5 seconds at a temperature setting of 140°F (60°C). (p.20)
- Elements fail if operated without water; make certain the tank is full and the cold water inlet valve is open before applying power (dry-firing not covered by warranty). (p.20)
- Do not use utility power-management devices that drop 240 VAC to 120 VAC; 120 VAC may damage the compressor or other electrical components. (p.17)
From the manufacturer's manual for this series.
Troubleshooting without a code
"F11" during installation
Likely cause: The unit was powered on without a full tank
What to do: Turn the power OFF, finish filling the tank with water, then turn the power back ON. Dry Tank Detection is an installer aid and should NOT be the primary control; never apply power until the tank is filled and all air purged.
"bAd line" on the display during installation
Likely cause: The water heater is not receiving the correct voltage as a result of incorrect wiring
What to do: Turn the power OFF to the water heater, correct the wiring issue, then turn the power back ON.
The heat pump is not running its normal length of time
Likely cause: The unit uses the electric elements to protect itself in extreme cold ambient temperature (<35°F), extreme hot ambient temperature (>120°F), or very low voltage
What to do: None needed. The unit will return to normal operation when conditions permit.
Display shows a number other than the temperature setpoint at startup or after a power loss
Likely cause: During commissioning, a self-test countdown number is displayed showing the time remaining before normal operation
What to do: None needed. It is heating water during this time.
Temperature setting not displayed / display blank
Likely cause: The control only displays the setting when a heat source is called for; the display goes blank after inactivity to conserve energy
What to do: Pressing any button will wake the control and display the temperature setpoint.
An operating-mode LED is flashing
Likely cause: In Hybrid mode, the Electric (Only) LED flashes whenever the elements are active. In Electric (Only) mode, the LED flashes after 48 hours to show the unit is not in the most efficient mode
What to do: None needed. These are normal conditions and do NOT indicate an operating issue.
Dirty filter alarm returns within a few days after cleaning and resetting
Likely cause: May be an indication of a refrigerant leak
What to do: Further diagnosis by a service technician is necessary.
Temperature and pressure relief valve discharges periodically
Likely cause: May be due to thermal expansion in a closed water system
What to do: Contact the water supplier or your plumbing contractor on how to correct this. Do not plug the relief valve outlet.
Hissing or singing sound level increases excessively
Likely cause: The electric heating element may require cleaning
What to do: Contact a qualified installer or plumber for inspection.
Odor at the hot water faucet
Likely cause: In areas where water is unusually active, a reaction between the sacrificial anode and impurities in the water
What to do: An alternative anode(s) may be purchased from the supplier that installed this water heater. Additionally, the water heater should be flushed with appropriate dissolvers to eliminate any bacteria.
Bradford White Connect Adapter LED blinking red (Connect-equipped units)
Likely cause: Error message from water heater or error with installation
Source: Bradford White Connect Adapter Installation & Operation Manual, 238-54090-00A, page 5
Owner maintenance
Annual inspection
How often: annually at minimum
The water heater should be inspected annually at minimum by a qualified service technician for damaged components. Do NOT operate this water heater if any part is found damaged.
Inspect temperature & pressure relief valve
How often: once a year
Lift and release the lever handle on the T&P relief valve (front-right side of the water heater) to make certain the valve operates freely. Allow several gallons to flush through the discharge line to an open drain. Hot water will be released under pressure.
Inspect heating elements, TCO, and wiring
How often: once a year
Inspection should be completed by service personnel qualified in electrical appliance repair.
Drain and flush tank
How often: Once a year, per the draining and flushing steps on page 23. Page 22 of the same manual says to drain the heater at least once a month until the water runs clear.
Draining: 1) Turn OFF the power. 2) Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the unit and direct it to a drain. 3) Turn OFF the cold water supply. 4) Admit air by opening a hot water faucet or lifting the relief valve handle. 5) Open the drain valve with a flat screwdriver. Flushing: with the tank empty, drain valve open and hose attached, turn on the cold water supply; let several gallons flush to an open drain; turn OFF the water and let the tank drain; repeat until the water runs clear. Close the drain valve and fill the tank BEFORE returning power.
Clean air filter
How often: when the red light above the FILTER button lights and the alarm sounds
Leave the power ON. Remove the filter from the top of the unit by squeezing the two tabs and lifting. Vacuum it, wipe it with a damp cloth, or rinse it with warm water. Once cleaned and dried, align it into the slots on top of the unit and push it down into place. Press and hold the FILTER button (5 seconds, per the control description on page 5) to reset the alarm. If the filter gets too dirty, the unit automatically switches to Electric (Only) mode.
Clear condensate drain
How often: periodically; and when F20 is displayed
If clogged, the heat pump stops, the display shows F20, and an alarm sounds. Press any button to silence the alarm, remove any drain lines and connections and clear debris, reattach them, then allow the water heater to run. Periodically inspect the drain lines and clear any debris.
Inspect anode rod
How often: remove and inspect annually; replace when more than 6 in (15.2 cm) of core wire is exposed at either end
Artificially softened water will cause the anode rod to consume more rapidly. Because of shock hazard and to prevent accidental leaks, this inspection should be done by a qualified servicer or plumber, with the electric power and cold water supply turned OFF. Failure to replace a consumed anode risks voiding the tank warranty.
Anode rod service procedure
1) Disconnect power, shut OFF the water supply, and drain one or two gallons through the lower drain valve. 2) Remove the filter, trim ring, and front top cover. 3) Reinstall the trim ring and tape the sheet metal edges. 4) If present, remove insulation to uncover the anode rod. 5) Using a 1 1/16" socket and extension, unscrew the anode rod and lift it out to inspect. 6) Seal the threads with soft set sealant and torque to 50±5 ft-lbs. 7) Turn the water ON, open a tap to remove air, inspect for leaks, reassemble, and turn the power ON. (The manual says this information is intended for individuals with adequate electrical, electronic and mechanical experience.)
Freeze protection / vacant building
How often: whenever the building is left unoccupied during cold winter months
Shut off the electric power and water supply, and drain the water heater completely to prevent freezing. Shut off the electric power whenever the water supply to the water heater is off.
Sources
- Heat Pump Water Heater Installation & Operation Instruction Manual (RE2H50S*-1NCTT, RE2H65T*-1NCTT, RE2H80T*-1NCTT) (238-52169-00C (ECO 8424))
- Bradford White Connect Adapter Installation & Operation Manual (238-54090-00A)
- AeroTherm Series Heat Pump spec sheet (1902)
- AeroTherm Series Heat Pump with Bradford White Connect spec sheet (1901)