How to Check the Flame on a Rinnai Tankless Water Heater

Accessing Burner

• The water heater's burner is usually accessed through a panel cover on the unit. The access panel unscrews or detaches to expose the burner compartment. Before you start your inspection, make sure all the power switches and gas valves are operating normally and effectively. For best results, try running the water heater for several minutes before looking at the flame. The panel provides a clear view of the burner, with its series of holes for gas to escape and ignite.

Even Flame

• It's important for the flame to be even. All of the little burner nozzles should be producing enough gas for the flame to rise to an fairly even height over the entire burner. If the flame is not even and some spots on the burner are not lit, this is a sign that some of the gas is not getting through. The ports along the burner may be blocked with residue and need to be cleared. Valve problems may also be preventing enough gas from reaching the burner.

Flame Color

• In a properly operating Rinnae water heater, the flames should be a stable blue color. If the flame is tending toward yellow on top, it indicates a problem with the burner. Many flame color issues are caused by air flow. A dirty air filter or a clogged air vent may be the problem. Low gas flow can also cause changes to the color of the flame. The direct problem is improper burning of the gas: Sooty particles are being created and the burner is not hot enough.

Other Issues

• Burners can indicate other problems, as well. If the burner is refusing to even light, the issue may be with the ignitor, which needs to be properly positioned to ignite the incoming gas. Electrical issues may be causing the burner to work fine but then suddenly shut down during use, or to fail to light. In general, visual examinations can save a lot of time when it comes to diagnosis.