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Error code reference

Bradford White Water Heater Error Code 8 flashes (V1)

Standing pilot remains on while setpoint knob is in OFF position; pilot valve stuck in open position.

Bradford White codesBradford White water heater codes

Standing pilot remains on while setpoint knob is in OFF position; pilot valve stuck in open position.

First step from the service manual

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 8 flashes (V1) means on a Bradford White water heater

The 8 flashes (V1) error code on a Bradford White water heater indicates that the control circuit has detected a standing pilot flame while the setpoint knob is positioned in the OFF setting. Under normal operation, turning the knob to OFF should close the pilot valve and extinguish the pilot flame entirely. When the control board detects a thermocouple or flame sensor signal indicating an active pilot despite the OFF command, it registers this fault condition and begins the 8-flash sequence.

The root cause is almost always a pilot valve that has become stuck in the open position within the gas control valve assembly. The pilot valve is an internal component of the gas control unit, not a separately serviceable part in the field. A stuck-open pilot valve allows gas to continue flowing to the pilot burner regardless of knob position, creating both a fault condition and a potential safety concern. Contamination, corrosion, or mechanical wear of the valve seat or solenoid internals can all cause this type of failure.

Because the pilot valve is integrated into the gas control assembly, the corrective action is replacement of the entire gas control unit. There is no field-level repair for a stuck pilot valve. Attempting to operate the water heater while this fault is active is not recommended, as the gas control is not responding correctly to operator input.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 8 flashes (V1)

  1. 01

    Pilot valve stuck open inside gas control

    Part replacement

    The pilot valve solenoid or seat within the gas control assembly has failed in the open position, allowing gas to flow to the pilot burner even with the knob set to OFF. This is the primary cause of this fault and requires gas control replacement.

  2. 02

    Contamination or debris in pilot valve seat

    Part replacement

    Sediment, corrosion byproducts, or debris can lodge in the pilot valve seat and prevent it from seating fully when commanded to close. The valve remains partially or fully open as a result.

  3. 03

    Internal corrosion of gas control assembly

    Part replacement

    Moisture intrusion or long-term corrosion inside the gas control can compromise the mechanical components of the pilot valve, causing it to bind in the open position.

  4. 04

    Failed gas control solenoid

    Part replacement

    The electrical solenoid that actuates the pilot valve may have failed in an energized or mechanically locked state, preventing the valve from closing when the knob is moved to OFF.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 8 flashes (V1)

What does 8 flashes (V1) mean on a Bradford White water heater?
The 8 flashes (V1) error indicates that the standing pilot is detected as still burning while the setpoint knob is in the OFF position. This means the pilot valve inside the gas control assembly is stuck open and is not shutting off gas flow as it should when commanded. The gas control unit requires replacement to resolve this fault.
Can I fix the 8 flashes (V1) error myself, or do I need a technician?
The pilot valve is integrated into the gas control assembly and is not a separately serviceable component. The entire gas control unit must be replaced to correct a stuck pilot valve. Because this repair involves the gas supply system, it is strongly recommended to have a qualified technician perform the replacement.
Is it safe to keep using my water heater when it shows the 8 flashes (V1) error?
Continued operation is not recommended. A stuck-open pilot valve means the gas control is not responding correctly to the OFF command, which indicates a failure in a critical safety-related component. The unit should be taken out of service until the gas control has been replaced.
Will resetting the water heater clear the 8 flashes (V1) error?
A reset will not resolve this error because the fault is caused by a mechanical or solenoid failure within the gas control valve, not a transient electrical condition. The pilot valve is physically stuck open, and no reset procedure will free a stuck valve or restore proper function. Parts replacement is required.
How much does it cost to repair the 8 flashes (V1) error on a Bradford White water heater?
The repair requires replacement of the gas control valve assembly. Parts costs for a Bradford White gas control typically range from $75 to $200 depending on the model, and professional labor to replace the valve generally adds $100 to $250. Total repair costs including parts and labor commonly fall in the range of $175 to $450.

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