Bradford White Water Heater Error Code 4 flashes (WR Electronic)

The 4-flash code on a Bradford White water heater with a White Rodgers electronic control means the temperature cut-out limit was reached and the unit has shut down as a safety measure. The control detected that water temperature inside the tank climbed to an excessively high level. The heater will remain in lockout until the condition is addressed and the unit is restarted properly.

Yes, this error indicates that water inside the tank reached a dangerously high temperature, which poses a scalding risk at fixtures and can stress tank components over time. The automatic shutdown is a built-in safety feature designed to prevent injury and equipment damage. The underlying cause should be identified and corrected before returning the unit to service.

Repair costs depend on what is causing the overheating condition. If only a setpoint adjustment is needed, there is no parts cost involved. Replacing a White Rodgers electronic control assembly typically runs between $150 and $350 for the part alone, with additional labor costs if a technician is involved. A faulty gas valve replacement can range from $200 to $500 or more depending on the model and local labor rates.

Start by shutting off the control and allowing the tank to cool completely. Once cooled, reduce the temperature setpoint on the White Rodgers electronic control. After restarting, closely monitor the unit to confirm the control is cycling the burner on and off correctly and not allowing temperatures to exceed the setpoint. If overheating continues, the electronic control assembly likely needs to be replaced.

A reset may clear the lockout temporarily, but if the root cause is not corrected, the cut-out limit will be reached again and the 4-flash code will return. Simply resetting the unit without addressing the setpoint, control operation, or any faulty components is not a permanent fix. Always diagnose and resolve the cause of overheating before relying on a reset.