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Error code reference

Bradford White Water Heater Error Code 16

Over temperature warning

Bradford White codesBradford White water heater codes

Over temperature warning - excessive water or heat exchanger temperature detected.

First step from the service manual

Check for restrictions in air flow around unit and vent terminal. Check for a low flow circulating system that is causing the unit to short cycle. Check for foreign materials in combustion chamber and/or exhaust.

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

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What 16 means on a Bradford White water heater

Error code 16 on a Bradford White water heater signals an over-temperature warning, meaning the control system has detected that the water temperature or heat exchanger temperature has exceeded safe operating limits. The control board monitors thermal sensors throughout the unit and triggers this fault to prevent damage to internal components, plumbing connections, or injury from scalding hot water. This is a protective shutdown, not simply a thermostat overshoot, and the underlying cause must be resolved before the unit returns to normal operation.

The most common contributors to this fault fall into three categories: combustion airflow restrictions, hydraulic system problems, and contamination in the combustion chamber. Restricted airflow around the unit or at the vent terminal prevents proper heat dissipation and can cause exhaust gases to recirculate, elevating heat exchanger temperatures. A low-flow circulating system can cause the burner to short cycle, meaning the unit fires frequently in short bursts without adequately moving heat out through the water circuit, which allows temperatures to spike rapidly.

Foreign material inside the combustion chamber or exhaust path is another significant cause. Debris, scale buildup, or blockages can disrupt flame patterns and trap heat around the heat exchanger. Technicians should inspect the vent terminal for bird nests, ice blockage, or debris, verify that clearances around the unit meet installation specifications, and assess the circulation loop for adequate flow rate before suspecting a faulty sensor or control board.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 16

  1. 01

    Restricted airflow or blocked vent terminal

    Wiring / connection

    Obstructions at the vent terminal, such as bird nests, ice, or debris, or insufficient clearance around the unit, can trap heat and cause exchanger temperatures to climb. Inspect the full vent path and confirm all clearance requirements are met.

  2. 02

    Low-flow circulating system causing short cycling

    Wiring / connection

    If the hot water circulation loop has insufficient flow rate, the burner fires repeatedly in short intervals and cannot transfer heat effectively into the water stream, leading to rapid temperature spikes. Check pump operation and verify system flow rate meets the unit's specifications.

  3. 03

    Foreign material in combustion chamber or exhaust

    Wiring / connection

    Debris, scale, or contamination inside the combustion chamber or exhaust pathway can disrupt proper flame combustion and concentrate heat around the heat exchanger. A visual inspection of the burner area and exhaust path should be performed.

  4. 04

    Faulty temperature sensor

    Part replacement

    If airflow, venting, and circulation all check out correctly, a defective water temperature or heat exchanger sensor may be reporting falsely elevated readings and triggering the fault. Sensor resistance values should be tested against the unit's specifications.

  5. 05

    Thermostat or control board set point issue

    Part replacement

    An incorrectly configured thermostat set point or a failing control board can cause the burner to fire beyond intended temperature limits. Verify the temperature setting is within the recommended operating range and inspect the control board for signs of damage.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 16

What does 16 mean on a Bradford White water_heater?
Error code 16 is an over-temperature warning indicating the control system detected excessively high water or heat exchanger temperature. The heater shuts down as a protective measure to prevent component damage and scalding risk. The fault will need to be diagnosed and the root cause corrected before the unit resumes normal operation.
How do I fix error code 16 on my Bradford White water heater?
Start by checking for any blockages in the airflow around the unit and at the vent terminal, since restricted combustion air or exhaust is the most common trigger. Next, assess whether the hot water circulation system is operating with adequate flow, as a low-flow loop can cause short cycling and temperature spikes. Finally, inspect the combustion chamber and exhaust path for foreign material or debris. If all physical checks pass, a faulty temperature sensor or control component may need professional testing and replacement.
Is it safe to continue using my water heater when error code 16 is active?
No, you should not attempt to continue normal use while code 16 is active. The error indicates the heater detected dangerously high temperatures, and operating with that condition present risks damaging internal components, connections, and in extreme cases could pose a scalding hazard. The unit should remain out of service until the cause is identified and corrected.
Will resetting the water heater clear error code 16?
A reset may clear the fault temporarily and allow the heater to restart, but if the underlying cause is not addressed, the code will return. Short cycling, blocked venting, or debris in the combustion chamber will continue to drive temperatures above safe limits with each firing cycle. Always resolve the root cause before relying on a reset as a solution.
How much does it cost to repair a Bradford White water heater showing error code 16?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the cause. If the fix involves clearing a blocked vent terminal or adjusting system flow, costs may be limited to a service call fee, typically in the range of $75 to $150. If a temperature sensor needs replacement, parts and labor could range from $150 to $350. A control board replacement represents a higher-cost repair, often falling between $300 and $600 or more depending on the model and labor rates in your area.

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