Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Error Code 17

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Well, in this post, I would be walking through the nuts & bolts of Rinnai error code 17 in order to help you fix it in the best possible way.

Furthermore, I would be responding to the queries related to code 17 in order to help you clear your doubts.

So, what causes Rinnai to error code 17?

Rinnai Error Code 17 indicates that there is a problem with your water heater’s temperature sensor and error code 17 will be displayed if either the heater’s sensor isn’t properly calibrated or there is a build-up of debris on the sensor.

In simple words, any debris build-up on the sensors may adversely impact its performance.

It may cause your water heater to overheat leading to permanent damage to the unit.

Frankly speaking, Rinnai error code 17 isn’t found on all the Rinnai models.

Only those Rinnai models that are equipped with venturi controls and switches are exposed to error code 17.

Fixing error code 17 is quick, easy, and less time-consuming.

In fact, you can do it on your own irrespective of whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional.

So, you might be wondering what needs to be done to fix Rinnai error code 17, right?

In order to fix Rinnai error code 17, clean and remove any build-ups and restrictions blocking the venturi.

In case, the error doesn’t go away, the best thing that you can do is to contact a certified technician and explain the problem.

Error Code 17 Troubleshooting

Restart the system

Unplug all devices from the system.
Wait 30 seconds.

Plug in all devices, and turn on the system.
Enter the BIOS.
Select the “Restart” option.

Enter the system reset password.
Select “Yes, restart now.”
The system will restart.

Turn off the water heater for at least 5 minutes

Shut off the main water supply to the water heater.
Turn off the power to the water heater.
Open the water heater’s access panel.

Disconnect the water heater’s drain hose.
Open the water heater’s drain valve.
Remove the water heater’s cap.

Turn off the water heater’s gas valve.
Turn off the water heater’s water valve.
Close the water heater’s access panel.

Reconnect the water heater’s drain hose.
Reconnect the water heater’s gas valve.
Reconnect the water heater’s water valve.

Flush the water heater

Shut off water to water heater.
Remove cover and disconnect hoses.
Turn water back on to water heater and wait three minutes.

Turn off water to water heater.
Remove cover and disconnect hoses.
Turn water back on to water heater and wait three minutes.

Turn off water to water heater.
Remove cover and disconnect hoses.
Turn water back on to water heater and wait three minutes.

Turn off water to water heater.
Remove and clean ignitor.
Install ignitor and reattach hoses.

Turn water back on to water heater and wait three minutes.
Turn off water to water heater.
Replace water heater.

Check the gas line for leaks

One way to check for gas leaks is to turn off all the appliances in the home and turn on the main light. Look for any signs of gas escaping – such as flames or sparks – from the appliance. If you see any signs of gas escaping, turn off the main light and call a professional. To check for leaks in a line, you will need a meter. Turn off the main gas line to the home and use the meter to measure the gas pressure in the line. If the pressure is low, there may be a leak in the line. If the pressure is high, the line is probably fine. To fix a leak, you will need to replace the line.

All You Need To Know About Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Code 11…

Frankly speaking, if you’ve landed on this post then the probability is very high that you might be owning a Rinnai tankless water heater as well as struggling to fix Rinnai Error Code 17, right?

Unfortunately, there can be numerous reasons for an error code 17 so you’ll have to first find out the root cause of the problem then only you can fix the error, isn’t it?

I’m attaching a self-explanatory video for your perusal.

In case of any doubt or query, feel free to reach out to us, and our core team would be more than happy to assist you.

As soon as error code 17 will occur, the ignition of your tankless water heater will stop working.

An error code 17 on Rinnai tankless unit can occur due to several reasons including issues with the ignitor, gas supply, flame rod, venting, excessive moisture, etc.

In order to get your Rinnai unit successfully run again, you need to find the exact cause of the problem and apply the right solution.

So, you might be wondering what needs to be done to find the real cause of error 17, right?

All you need to do is to keep reading this post till the end because we’ve bundled all the information in one place so that you can reap maximum benefits from it.

All You Need To Know About Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Code 12

A word of caution: If you’re NOT an experienced person and not very confident in fixing the code error 17 on Rinnai, then my advice would be to call a registered repair technician as there is much explosive gas in a Rinnai gas tankless water heater and could be a nightmare in case you lack enough knowledge and experience needed for fixing the error.

Below is the summary of things that can cause error code 17, and until and unless, you fix the root cause, you’re not gonna get the desired result.

The combustion chamber lacks appropriate flame or absence of flame

Loopholes in gas installation with the gas regulator
Issues with piping and control valve
The problem in the combustion chamber with ignition rods

Some other causes include but are not limited to the burner, fan, debris, deposits, venting issues, leaking, condensation, etc

Moving further, let’s have a quick look at each one of them so that you can easily identify what’s wrong with your Rinnai tankless water heater and what needs to be done on your end to bring the tankless unit back on track.

Before we dive deep into the discussion, please allow me to ask you one question, which is the best tankless water heater brand?

Let us know in the comment section.

How to fix a gas-related issue that causes Rinnai error code 17?

First thing first, make sure your tankless unit gets an uninterrupted supply of gas
Also, you need to ensure the gas type is as per the rating plate present on your tankless unit

In simple words, the dip switch present on the electronic board of your propane tankless unit or any other variants must be set for the correct type
Furthermore, the gas pressure must be aligned as per the rating plate
There could be numerous reasons for improper gas pressure including not correct sizing of the gas system, manufacturer specifications not being met, and most importantly, the presence of specks of dirt, and debris on the system

Once the installation is done, the air must be purged from the gas lines in order to prevent any last-minute debacle

If you’re NOT sure of fixing the issue on your own, the best thing that you can do is to contact a licensed technician as it will not only save you time but will also refrain you from getting exposed to harmful gases, etc.

How to fix an igniter-related issue that causes Rinnai error code 17?

First and foremost, you need to check the health of the ignitor

All you need to do is to cycle your tankless unit & check for the spark
Well, if there is a spark then you’re on the right track else check for the loose connection as well as a damaged element if any
When your tankless unit is in the ignition cycle you need to cross-verify the correct voltage on the electric board

Furthermore, you need to securely tighten the igniter and its ceramic insulation to the mounting bracket in such a way that it is positioned correctly
The main problem with a loose rod is that it can cause no sparks or one of a shorter duration in case, it comes in contact with other metal components
If you’re planning to install a new element then you need to simultaneously install a new gasket too

Finally, you need to inspect the igniter and clean any carbon or scale buildup in the same way as mentioned in the manual to prevent any last-minute misadventure

It’s A Wrap

Thank you for being with us till the end.

I hope you got the solution to your problem.

In case, you’re still struggling to get rid of the error code on your Rinnai tankless unit, feel free to reach out to us via the contact form and we would be more than happy to assist you.

That’s all, as of now 🙂

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