Troubleshooting a GE Water Heater
- If you hear the relief valve popping or see it dripping, it means you have a closed system. You must either install an expansion tank or a relief valve on the cold water supply line.
If you hear a rumbling noise, there is scale buildup on the heating elements. Remove the heating elements and clean them.
If you hear a rattling noise during operation, this is normal. GE water heaters have internal heat trap fittings that make noise when operating.
If you can't get hot water. check the circuit breaker and the reset limit. Check that the thermostat is set properly. Turn off power to the water heater before pressing reset button or adjusting the thermostat. - If you see a yellow flame or soot, the flue or combustion air inlet openings are obstructed or not getting enough air. Remove any obstructions preventing free air movement.
If you can't light the pilot, the gas cock knob may not be correctly positioned. Turn the gas cock knob to the "Pilot" position. Press and hold the red button down. Then press the piezo ignitor several times until the pilot lights. Continue holding the red button down for one minute. Replace the outer door and turn the gas cock knob to "on." If this does not solve the problem, you may have air in the gas line or the pilot orifice or pilot tube may be clogged. You will need to call a service technician.
If the pilot does not stay lit after red button is released, call a service technician. - GE tankless water heaters are self-monitoring. If there is a problem, you will see an error code on the remote control when the water is running.
Error 2, no burner operation: Check that the gas is turned on, and if you are using propane, that you have gas remaining in the tank.
Error 10, blockage: Check that nothing is blocking the flue inlet or exhaust.
Error 11, no ignition: Make sure gas is turned on and available, and check that the heater is properly grounded.
Error 12, flame failure: Check that the gas is on and available, that there are no obstructions, and the unit is properly grounded.
Error 14, thermal fuse: Call for service.
Error 16, overheating: Check for restricted air flow and foreign matter in the exhaust.
Errors 32-72: Call for service.
Error LC or 00, scale buildup: Flush the tank with white vinegar or citric acid.