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Error code reference

Bradford White Water Heater Error Code 10 flashes red (V2)

Abnormal combustion chamber temperature profile during heating cycle; insufficient combustion air.

Bradford White codesBradford White water heater codes

Abnormal combustion chamber temperature profile during heating cycle; insufficient combustion air.

First step from the service manual

Clean all combustion air intakes to the appliance. Clean the burner. Remove all obstacles that may restrict air flow to the burner. Replace gas control.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What 10 flashes red (V2) means on a Bradford White water heater

Error code 10 flashes red on a Bradford White water heater (V2 control) indicates an abnormal combustion chamber temperature profile detected during an active heating cycle. The gas control module continuously monitors thermal conditions inside the combustion chamber. When the temperature curve deviates from expected parameters, the control interprets this as a sign that combustion is not occurring properly, most often due to insufficient combustion air reaching the burner.

The root cause is typically a restriction in the air supply path to the burner. This can include clogged combustion air intakes, debris or scale buildup on the burner itself, or physical obstructions near the appliance base that block airflow. In direct vent and power vent installations, a partially blocked intake pipe can also produce this fault. Without adequate combustion air, the air-to-fuel ratio shifts rich, producing abnormal heat distribution patterns that the gas control detects and flags.

Diagnostic priority starts with a thorough inspection and cleaning of all combustion air intakes and the burner assembly. Any debris, dust, lint, or corrosion on the burner ports can disrupt flame characteristics and trigger this code. If cleaning all intake paths and the burner does not resolve the fault, the gas control valve itself may be misreading thermal conditions or have an internal failure, and replacement is the next indicated step.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 10 flashes red (V2)

  1. 01

    Clogged combustion air intakes

    Wiring / connection

    Dust, lint, and debris can accumulate on the air intake screens or openings over time, restricting the volume of air reaching the burner. Inspect all intake grilles and screens for visible blockage and clean thoroughly.

  2. 02

    Dirty or fouled burner

    Wiring / connection

    Corrosion, scale, or debris on the burner ports disrupts flame pattern and combustion efficiency. Visually inspect the burner for discoloration, clogged ports, or debris and clean as needed.

  3. 03

    Physical obstructions near the appliance

    Wiring / connection

    Stored items, insulation, or other materials placed close to the water heater base can block airflow to the burner compartment. Check the area around the unit and remove anything restricting open air circulation.

  4. 04

    Blocked or restricted vent intake pipe

    Wiring / connection

    On direct vent or power vent models, a partially obstructed intake pipe reduces combustion air supply. Inspect the exterior intake termination for nests, debris, ice, or damage.

  5. 05

    Failed gas control valve

    Part replacement

    If all air supply paths and the burner have been cleaned and verified clear but the fault persists, the gas control valve may have an internal sensor or logic failure causing it to misread combustion chamber temperatures. Replacement of the gas control is the indicated next step.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 10 flashes red (V2)

What does 10 flashes red (V2) mean on a Bradford White water_heater?
Ten red flashes on a Bradford White water heater with a V2 gas control indicates that the combustion chamber temperature profile was abnormal during a heating cycle. The control detected that combustion conditions deviated from expected parameters, most commonly because of insufficient combustion air reaching the burner. This is a safety-related diagnostic code that shuts down the heating cycle until the underlying condition is corrected.
How do I fix a 10 flash red error on my Bradford White water heater?
Start by cleaning all combustion air intakes and removing any obstructions near the base of the unit that could restrict airflow. Next, inspect and clean the burner itself, clearing any debris or corrosion from the burner ports. If the error returns after cleaning, the gas control valve may need to be replaced, which is the final step recommended for this fault code.
Is a 10 flash red code on a Bradford White water heater a safety concern?
Yes, this code indicates a combustion problem that the control has already responded to by interrupting normal operation. Insufficient combustion air can lead to incomplete combustion and poor burner performance. The unit should not be forced to continue operating while this fault is active. Address the root cause before restoring normal service.
Will resetting my Bradford White water heater clear the 10 flash red code?
A reset may temporarily clear the fault and allow the unit to attempt another heating cycle, but if the underlying cause such as a blocked air intake or dirty burner is not corrected, the code will return. Resetting without addressing the root cause does not fix the problem. Complete the recommended cleaning and inspection steps before resetting.
How much does it cost to repair a Bradford White water heater showing 10 red flashes?
If the issue is resolved through cleaning the intakes and burner, the cost is minimal, primarily just labor time if you hire a technician, typically in the range of $75 to $150 for a service call. If the gas control valve requires replacement, parts and labor combined generally fall in the range of $250 to $600 depending on the model and local labor rates. Getting a diagnosis confirmed before ordering parts is recommended.

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