Which models this covers
Bradford White Defender FVIR residential gas models such as RG230T, RG240T, RG250T/S/H/L, RG130T, RG140T, RG150T and LG255H (Service Manual 238-51542-00E). Codes differ between control boards, so check the code chart printed on your unit or in its manual if your model isn’t listed.
How to read the code
Count the flashes between pauses. Codes repeat after about 3 seconds. Check which control you have: a White-Rodgers electronic valve (green light), an ICON System V1, or an ICON System V2 (colored light). Some heaters have a mechanical valve with no light at all.
White-Rodgers electronic control (green light)
| Code | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Off | Control is off, or the pilot is out | Light the pilot following the label instructions. |
| 1 flash every 4 sec | Normal: pilot lit, burner off | None. |
| 1 flash every 1 sec | Normal: burner on | None. |
| Solid | Knob was recently turned to OFF | Wait for it to reset before relighting. |
| 2 | Low thermopile voltage (loose connection or weak pilot) | Check the thermopile connection. If the pilot flame is weak, call a pro.Pro |
| 4 | Temperature cut-out reached | Call a pro.Pro |
| 5 | Electronics, sensor or valve fault (the control may be wet or damaged) | Call a pro.Pro |
ICON System V1
| Code | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Off | Pilot is not lit | Light the pilot following the label instructions. |
| 1 | Normal operation | None. |
| Solid | Knob was recently turned to OFF | Wait before relighting. |
| 2 | Weak pilot (thermopile, unstable pilot or blocked pilot tube) | Check for drafts and a steady pilot flame. If it persists, call a pro.Pro |
| 3 | Insufficient water heating (sensor calibration) | Call a pro. The control needs replacing.Pro |
| 4 | Excessive tank temperature | Call a pro. The control needs replacing.Pro |
| 5 | Temperature sensor fault | Call a pro.Pro |
| 6 | Water leak detected (accessory leak module) | Look for water at the T&P valve and fittings. Shut off the water if it’s leaking. |
| 7 | Electronic fault | Reset by turning off and relighting. If it returns, call a pro to replace the control.Pro |
| 8 | Pilot stays on with the knob at OFF (pilot valve stuck open) | Call a pro. The control needs replacing.Pro |
ICON System V2 (colored light)
| Code | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Green, 1 flash every 4 sec | Normal: idle | None. |
| Green, 1 flash every 1 sec | Normal: burner on | None. |
| Yellow, 2 flashes | Low thermopile voltage | Check the thermopile connection and pilot flame. If it persists, call a pro.Pro |
| Red, 4 flashes | Temperature cut-out | Call a pro.Pro |
| Red, 5 flashes | Electronics, sensor or valve fault | Call a pro.Pro |
| Red, solid | Control is in OFF | Turn the knob on and relight per the label. |
Sources
These codes are transcribed from the manufacturer’s own documentation. Many websites repeat codes that don’t match the manuals, so when in doubt, trust the chart on your unit.
- Bradford White Service Manual 238-51542-00E (Defender FVIR)
- Bradford White service manual index (tank-type gas)
Code pointing to a big repair? Check whether to repair or replace before you pay for it.
Frequently asked questions
What does 2 flashes mean on a Bradford White water heater?
On all three Bradford White electronic controls, 2 flashes means low thermopile voltage: typically a loose thermopile connection, a weak or unstable pilot flame, or a blocked pilot tube.
How do I know which Bradford White control I have?
Look at the gas control on the front of the heater. The White-Rodgers electronic valve has a green status light, the ICON System V2 uses colored (green, yellow, red) flashes, and the ICON System V1 has a single status light with codes up to 8. Your model number and the service manual confirm it.
Why do some websites list different Bradford White codes?
Many sites copy unverified charts or mix up controls. For example, some claim 2 flashes is a flammable vapor lockout. Bradford White’s own service manual says it’s low thermopile voltage. Always check the chart for your specific control.