Is there a flammable vapor sensor on my water heater?

However, there are no flammable vapors, but I cannot get the water heater to come back on. The owner’s manual indicates that if switching the heater on/off does not fix the issue I should replace the Flammable Vapor Sensor… it’s after 5PM, that’s not going to happen…

Is there a way to reset the flammable vapor sensor?

Luckily that error code can easily be reset and you will have hot water again in less then an hour. The reset procedure will vary depending on which gas valve you have. Before resetting the flammable vapor sensor, make sure there are no flammable vapors or containers near the water heater. Here are the different gas valves and how to reset them: 1.

Why is the gas valve on my hot water heater not working?

The problem is not with the flame sensor, it’s the Flammable Vapor Sensor (the safety sensor that prevent ignition if flammable vapors are detected). The only way I can get the gas valve to come back on is if the Flammable Vapor Sensor reports there are no Flammable Vapors.

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How can I replace the vapor sensor in my hot water heater?

If you have access to a Radio Shack or electronics store, you can pick up a 15k-ohm resistor. Tie it into your hot water heater, and you will have bypassed the safety mechanism of your hot water heater. Replace the vapor sensor. If you have a bad sensor, the fix is easy—get a replacement and install it.

How to reset flammable vapor sensor on water heater?

Reset the control by unplugging the blower, leave unplugged for at least 5 seconds. 2. plug back in and within 30 seconds cycle temp control from hot to low 6 times. Robertshaw Gas Valve: 1. Turn the manual lever on the Control Gas Valve counter clockwise until it snaps to the “on” position.

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Are there any downsides to a flammable vapor sensor?

The downside of the sensor is that it can be trigger by other fumes in the vicinity such as paint fumes. Check to make sure that you don’t have a gas leak.

When did flammable vapor ignition resistant water heater come out?

In 2003, a new standard for water heaters was developed and phased in. It says, “The water heater should not ignite flammable vapors outside the water heater created by the spilling of gasoline onto the floor.” The Consumer Products and Safety Commission found thousands of fires, injuries and deaths were related to water heaters.

Can a gas leak trigger a FVS sensor?

The FVS is a relatively newer’ish invention that consists of a silicone type sensor that detects flammable vapors outside of the hot water tank. If you have a gas leak, you certainly don’t want to have an open flame feeding off that fuel. The downside of the sensor is that it can be trigger by other fumes in the vicinity such as paint fumes.

Where can I get a vapor sensor replaced?

Replace the vapor sensor. If you have a bad sensor, the fix is easy—get a replacement and install it. Many of the big box chains like Lowe’s and Home Depot will unlikely carry these parts, but a specialized plumbing company might. You can also find replacement parts on eBay or Amazon.

How to use the Rheem flammable vapor sensor kit?

Fill a cereal bowl halfway full of tap water, unplug the two spade connectors from the sensor, and place them on opposite sides of the water in the bowl. Turn the heat dial down to low. Turn the power switch to off and wait 30 seconds.

Is the Richmond 29gallon heater a flammable vapor sensor?

We have a Richmond 29gallon Convection/Hybrid heater that is barely a year and a half old. The Gas Valve is a Honeywell with an “on” switch and temperature dial. The blinking status indicator showed 7 blinks which decodes to Flammable Vapor Sensor Lockout.