Bradford White Water Heater 8 Flashes: Meaning and Fix
Applies to: Bradford White ICON gas water heaters, per the Quick Service Guides: atmospheric vent units use plain flash counts, power vent, power direct vent and fan assisted units (PV-Series, PDV-Series, RG*F-Series) use the codes marked PV; other controls and the Defender Safety System can differ.
Also shown as: Eight Flashes
Reading the water heater display
A gas tank water heater reports its fault as a count of LED flashes on the gas control valve, seen through the small window or viewport near the base of the tank. Count the flashes, note the pause (usually three seconds) and watch a second full round before you decide which code it is. Some controls use two groups, such as six flashes then one.
Bradford White tank water heaters with the ICON gas control flash a green LED a set number of times, pause for three seconds and repeat. Atmospheric vent and power vent units use different tables, so check which type you have first. Check the model label on your unit before using any chart.
What causes 8 Flashes
- Gas valve not shutting off the pilot
- Failed gas valve
- Gas pressure problem
How to fix it
If you smell gas, leave the building and call your gas utility from outside; do not touch switches or the unit. Switch the water heater off and let it cool before you touch any internal part, and call a licensed plumber or water heater technician if you are not sure.
The code meaning comes from the manufacturer document listed under Sources. The causes and steps below are general troubleshooting guidance, not the manufacturer's service procedure.
- Turn the gas control knob to OFF. If you smell gas, leave the building and call your gas utility from outside; do not touch switches.
- Have a technician check the gas pressure.
- Replace the gas valve as Bradford White lists.
- Do not leave the pilot burning with the knob OFF for long.
- If the code returns after these checks, call a licensed plumber or water heater technician and give them the flash count and the model number from the rating plate.
Questions
What does Bradford White water heater 8 Flashes mean?
8 Flashes on a Bradford White ICON atmospheric vent gas water heater means the pilot remains lit while the control knob is in the off position. Bradford White says to check the gas pressure and replace the gas valve; the gas valve cover with temperature probe is also listed. Bradford White's Quick Service Guide repeats the pattern after a three second pause.
Can I reset the water heater myself?
Turning the gas control knob to OFF, waiting, and relighting it clears some codes. If the same flash count comes back, the fault is still there and the unit will lock out again. Do not bypass a safety device to keep it running.
When should I call a technician?
Call a licensed plumber or water heater technician for anything involving gas, venting, the pilot, the gas control or flammable vapor sensor, or when the code keeps returning after the simple checks.
Other brands with code 8 Flashes
The same code can mean something different on another maker's appliance. Check the brand before you act.
Other Bradford White water heater codes
Sources
Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Meanings compiled from manufacturer and parts-retailer documentation; see sources below. Unplug the appliance before opening it.