Bradford White Water Heater Error Code 4 flashes (red)

Four red flashes on a Bradford White water heater indicate that the Gas Control V2 has detected a temperature cut-out condition and shut the unit down. This means the control sensed that water temperature reached or exceeded the cut-out limit. The gas valve shuts off burner operation as a safety response. The issue may involve the temperature setpoint, the water temperature sensor, or the gas control valve itself.

Yes, this error indicates a genuine safety shutdown and should not be ignored. The heater detected that water temperature reached a cut-out threshold, which can pose scalding risks if caused by a runaway heating condition. Do not repeatedly reset the unit and resume operation without identifying and correcting the underlying cause. If actual water temperatures are excessively high, avoid using hot water until the problem is resolved.

Repair costs depend on the root cause. If only a setpoint adjustment is needed, there is no parts cost beyond a service call, which typically ranges from $75 to $150. A replacement water temperature sensor generally costs between $20 and $60 for the part, plus labor. Gas control valve replacement is the most expensive repair, with parts ranging from $150 to $350 and total repair costs including labor often falling between $250 and $500.

Start by lowering the temperature setpoint on the gas control valve if it is set near the maximum range. Next, inspect the water temperature sensor and its wiring connections for damage or corrosion. If the setpoint is already at a reasonable level and the error persists, the gas control valve may need to be tested and replaced. A qualified technician should handle gas control valve replacement.

Resetting the unit may temporarily clear the fault and allow the heater to restart, but the error will return if the underlying cause is not corrected. If the temperature setpoint is too high or the sensor is faulty, the cut-out condition will repeat. Repeated resets without correcting the root cause can mask a genuine overheating problem. Address the diagnostics before relying on a reset as a solution.