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Error code reference

Bradford White Water Heater Error Code 10 flashes (V1)

Insufficient combustion air detected.

Bradford White codesBradford White water heater codes

Insufficient combustion air detected.

First step from the service manual

Reset gas control. If persists, 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 (V1) means on a Bradford White water heater

The 10 flash error code on a Bradford White water heater with a V1 gas control indicates that the control has detected insufficient combustion air. This condition is monitored by the gas control's internal logic, which evaluates combustion quality during burner operation. When the control determines that adequate air is not reaching the combustion chamber, it shuts down the burner and signals the fault through 10 LED flashes to protect against incomplete combustion and the production of carbon monoxide.

Insufficient combustion air typically results from restricted airflow to the water heater's combustion zone. Common causes include blocked air intake screens, debris or lint accumulation around the base of the unit, inadequate clearance from surrounding walls or stored materials, or a poorly ventilated mechanical room. In power-vent or direct-vent configurations, a blocked or kinked intake duct can also trigger this fault. The gas control continuously evaluates combustion conditions, so even a partial restriction can be enough to activate the lockout.

The recommended first diagnostic step is to reset the gas control by following the standard ignition reset procedure. If the fault clears and does not return, the event may have been caused by a temporary airflow disruption. If the 10 flash code persists after reset, the gas control itself may have failed internally and will require replacement. Before replacing the control, technicians should thoroughly inspect the combustion air supply path to rule out environmental causes that would continue to trigger the fault on a new control.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 10 flashes (V1)

  1. 01

    Blocked or restricted combustion air intake

    Wiring / connection

    Lint, dust, debris, or physical obstructions near the base or air intake of the unit reduce the volume of air reaching the combustion chamber. Inspect the intake screen and the area surrounding the heater for any blockage.

  2. 02

    Inadequate clearance around the unit

    Wiring / connection

    Stored items placed too close to the water heater can restrict airflow and starve the combustion zone of adequate air. Check that all required clearances from walls and stored materials are maintained.

  3. 03

    Blocked or damaged vent intake duct (power-vent or direct-vent models)

    Wiring / connection

    On power-vent or direct-vent configurations, a kinked, crushed, or externally blocked intake duct will prevent sufficient combustion air from entering. Inspect the full length of the intake pipe from the unit to the exterior termination point.

  4. 04

    Poorly ventilated mechanical room

    Wiring / connection

    If the water heater is installed in a confined space without adequate makeup air provisions, the room itself may become depressurized during operation, causing a chronic combustion air shortage. Evaluate the installation space against air supply requirements.

  5. 05

    Failed gas control valve

    Part replacement

    If all combustion air supply conditions check out as acceptable and the fault persists after reset, the gas control's internal sensors or logic may have failed. Replacement of the gas control is required in this case.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 10 flashes (V1)

What does 10 flashes (V1) mean on a Bradford White water heater?
Ten flashes on a Bradford White water heater with a V1 gas control indicates that the control has detected insufficient combustion air during burner operation. The unit shuts down as a safety measure to prevent incomplete combustion. The fault is signaled by the LED on the gas control flashing 10 times in a repeating sequence. Airflow obstructions or a failed gas control are the most common causes.
How do I fix a 10 flash error code on my Bradford White water heater?
Start by checking the area around the water heater for any obstructions blocking airflow to the combustion chamber, including lint, debris, or nearby stored items. Clear any blockages and then reset the gas control by following the ignition reset procedure on the unit's label. If the 10 flash code returns after reset, inspect the intake ducting if applicable, and evaluate the ventilation of the installation space. Persistent faults after these checks indicate the gas control likely needs to be replaced by a qualified technician.
Is a 10 flash error on a Bradford White water heater dangerous?
The error code itself represents the water heater's safety system working correctly by shutting down the burner when it detects a combustion air problem. Operating a water heater with insufficient combustion air can produce carbon monoxide, which is a serious health hazard. Do not attempt to bypass the lockout. Address the root cause of the airflow restriction before returning the unit to service.
Will resetting the gas control clear the 10 flash error code?
Resetting the gas control is the first recommended step and may clear the fault if the combustion air issue was temporary. However, if the underlying cause, such as a blocked intake or a confined installation space, has not been corrected, the error will return. If the fault persists through multiple reset attempts with no identifiable airflow restriction, the gas control itself may need to be replaced.
How much does it cost to repair a Bradford White water heater showing a 10 flash error?
If the fix involves clearing an airflow obstruction or improving room ventilation, the cost may be limited to a service call fee, typically in the range of $75 to $150. If the gas control valve has failed and requires replacement, parts and labor costs can range from $300 to $600 or more depending on the model and local labor rates. Getting a diagnosis from a licensed plumber or HVAC technician before purchasing parts is recommended.

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