Bradford White Water Heater PV 8-1 Flashes: Meaning and Fix

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.

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.

1. 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.
2. Ventilate the area and remove flammable liquids.
3. Have a technician verify the sensor resistance is between 3.0 and 48 kilohms.
4. Replace the flammable vapor sensor, harness or gas valve as the guide lists.
5. 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.

What does Bradford White water heater PV 8-1 Flashes mean?

PV 8-1 Flashes on a Bradford White ICON power vent, power direct vent or fan assisted gas water heater means the flammable vapor sensor is out of spec with a possible short, shown as eight flashes then one flash. Bradford White says to verify resistance between 3.0 and 48 kilohms, verify no flammable vapors and check the sensor harness. On power vent models the pattern repeats after a three second pause. Atmospheric vent ICON units use a different table.

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.

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.

• https://docs.bradfordwhite.com/Quick_Service_Guide/238-55968-00_A.pdf