6
11112014GW
Code 10 Troubleshooting Procedure
Air Supply or Exhaust Blockage
Inspect the entire vent system inside/outside the installation location. Check for clearance issues,
improper venting or materials used, etc.
1. Perform this test only if the unit is coding out during your service call. Remove the vent system from
the top of the water heater. Fire the product and see if the unit will operate without the vent system
connected. If the unit operates without coding out at that point that's a great indication the problem is
in the vent system leaving the unit. Ensure the front cover is installed on product before performing this
test.
WARNING:
Never leave a unit operating without the vent system connected. The test mentioned
above is only that, a test. If the unit functioned with the vent disconnected there is a 95% chance the
issue is in the vent pipe installation. Next go to step 2 below. There is a 5% chance it could be caused by
one of the items listed below.
2. Verify each vent section for proper installation. This will require disassembling each section to ensure
proper installation depth. Mark each vent pipe section with a marker before disassembling. This will
allow you to determine the proper depth when you disassemble the components. Make sure to use the
silicone grease Rinnai supplies with the condensing vent (PP) venting when reinstalling each vent
component.
WARNING:
Failure to use the grease will result in improperly sealed joints which will lead to
code 10 or exhaust gas leakage.
3. Inspect the vent system to ensure all clearances around vent terminations were met. Improper
clearances will result in recirculation of combustion gases.
4. Verify dip switch for vent length was set to the proper position for your application. First determine
total vent length, each ninety degree elbow counts as six foot of vent length, and each forty five degree
bend counts as three foot. Example; a vent system with two ninety degree elbows, one forty five degree
elbow and ten foot of straight pipe would be calculated as twenty five foot of total vent length.
5. If installer sprayed a foam sealant around the vent pipe penetration through the wall, check to ensure
this material did not collapse the intake pipe. Look down vent pipe with a flash light. If you can't see that
section of venting material remove it from the wall and inspect it.
6. Check for debris in vent system. Disconnect joints looking for water, condensation, insects or other
items.
7. Verify all vent terminations meet Rinnai's recommendation from another vent termination on the
same wall or roof. If multiple Rinnai's are installed at the location, each termination should have a
minimum of twelve inches of separation when installed on the same plane. If the vents are not on the
same plane you will need a five foot separation between vent terminations. See vent instructions for
details.
8. Verify vent terminals are installed with the proper clearance from overhangs, grade, obstructions,
walls, porches, etc. See venting instructions for proper clearance requirements.
