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Navien · Tankless water heater

E012 Flame loss

High severity Navien NPE-2

What the control is telling you

The flame went out during operation.

Applies to: Navien NPE-A2 (built-in recirculation) and NPE-S2 condensing tankless water heaters: NPE-150S2, NPE-180A2/S2, NPE-210A2/S2, NPE-240A2/S2

Likely causes

  • Dirty air intake filter
  • Poor electrical ground
  • Low or dropping gas pressure under load
  • Blocked intake/exhaust

Test and repair steps

  1. Clean the air intake filter (top left inside the cabinet, held by one screw); the manual suggests cleaning it every 3-4 months.
  2. Make sure the power cord is properly grounded.
  3. Measure inlet gas pressure at max fire 3.5-10.5 in. WC natural gas, 8.0-13 in. WC propane; look for a large drop when other appliances run.
  4. Inspect intake and exhaust terminations for blockage, snow or ice.
  5. Check Installer Menu > 1. Service Status Info > Flam Loss count to see how often it happens.
  6. Reset once with the Back button on the front panel and note whether the code returns.
  7. Code back after a reset? Stay at the unit and phone Navien Technical Support, 1-800-519-8794.

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Source: Navien NPE-A2/S2 User's Information Manual (20049624A), 5.2 Understanding Error Codes, p.17. Summarized in our own words; check the original manual for your model.

Homeowner looking at this code? See what it means for you and when to call a technician.

For licensed technicians. Gas, electrical and refrigerant work must be done by a qualified, licensed person. Shut off power and gas before servicing, never bypass a safety control, and follow the manufacturer’s manual for the exact model; it and local codes always take priority. HVACopedia is not affiliated with any manufacturer; brand and model names only identify the equipment.