Bradford White Water Heater Error Code 24

Error code 24 means the heater is detecting a flame signal after the burner should have shut off at the end of a heating cycle. The control board monitors the flame sensor continuously, and if it sees a signal when the gas valve has been commanded closed, it triggers this lockout. This is a safety-critical fault that prevents the unit from operating until the issue is resolved.

Yes, this code should be taken seriously. A burner that continues to fire after the thermostat is satisfied can cause the water temperature to rise beyond safe limits, potentially triggering the temperature and pressure relief valve or causing tank damage. Turn off the gas supply to the water heater and contact a technician promptly if you see this code.

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. Cleaning a flame sensor is a relatively low-cost service call, typically in the range of $75 to $150 for labor. Replacing a gas valve is a more involved repair and parts plus labor can range from $200 to $500 or more depending on the model and local labor rates. Control board replacement falls in a similar range.

Some causes, such as a dirty flame sensor, can be addressed by a knowledgeable DIYer with basic tools. However, if the gas valve is not closing properly, that repair involves the gas supply system and should only be performed by a licensed technician. Do not attempt to bypass or ignore this fault code, as persistent flame after shutoff is a genuine safety hazard.

A reset may temporarily clear the lockout and allow the unit to attempt another heating cycle, but the code will return if the underlying cause is not corrected. If the gas valve is leaking or the flame sensor is faulty, resetting the unit without repair does not make it safe to operate. A reset is useful for confirming the fault is active, but it is not a fix.