Bradford White AeroTherm Error Codes (50-Gallon Heat Pump)
In This Guide5 sections+
There is no “error code 50” on a Bradford White AeroTherm heat pump water heater. The “50” in most searches is the 50-gallon model (RE2H50), and its faults show up as F-codes such as F3 (compressor), F4 (fan), F11 (dry tank), F14 (dirty air filter) or F20 (blocked condensate drain). The code on your display tells you which part of the heat pump or electric back-up system has a problem, and many of them can be cleared by cleaning the filter or drain and pressing ENTER.
Key Takeaways
- “50” is the tank size (50 gallons), not a fault code. Read the F-code on the display.
- Most common DIY fixes: clean the air filter (F14 / filter light) and clear the condensate drain (F20).
- F11 means the tank was powered without water; fill it completely before restoring power.
- Heat pump faults (sensors, compressor, fan) usually switch the unit to electric mode so you keep hot water.
- Note every code shown and call a qualified technician for compressor, fan, sensor or control-board faults.
AeroTherm Fault Codes and What They Mean
Bradford White has sold more than one generation of the AeroTherm. Earlier units (for example the RE2H50R10B) use the code list below; later RE2H50S / RE2H65T / RE2H80T models group heat pump faults and add codes such as F17 (anode connection). Always check the fault table in the manual for your exact model number on the rating plate.
| Code | Meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| F2 | Tank temperature sensor (T2) fault | Call service; unit may run in electric mode |
| F3 | Compressor fault | Call service; check power supply voltage |
| F4 | Fan fault | Check for obstructions, then call service |
| F5–F8 | Evaporator, compressor-outlet or ambient sensor faults | Call service |
| F9 / F10 | Lower / upper heating element fault | Test and replace the element (power off) |
| F11 | Dry tank: powered up without water | Fill the tank completely, then press ENTER |
| F12 / F19 | Low line voltage | Have an electrician check the circuit |
| F13 | Stuck control key | Power-cycle; replace keypad if it persists |
| F14 | Air filter too dirty | Clean the filter and reset the filter alert |
| F15 | Control memory (DataFlash) fault | Power-cycle; call service if it returns |
| F17 (newer models) | Anode rod not connected properly | Confirm the tank is full; call service |
| F20 | Condensate drain blocked | Clear the drain line and port |
Codes and wording vary by model and software version. Confirm with your owner’s manual from Bradford White before replacing parts.
Fixes You Can Do Yourself
Clean the Air Filter (F14 or Filter Light)
A heat pump water heater pulls heat from the surrounding air, so a clogged filter cuts efficiency and can trigger a fault. When the red light above the Filter button comes on, remove the filter from the top of the unit, vacuum it or rinse it in warm water, let it dry, reinstall it and press and hold the FILTER button to reset the reminder.
Clear the Condensate Drain (F20)
The heat pump makes condensate as it cools the air. If the drain or port is blocked, the heat pump stops and the unit alarms. Disconnect the drain line, clear debris from the port and the line, reconnect it and make sure it runs downhill to a drain. Check it every few months, especially in dusty spaces.
Refill the Tank (F11)
F11 appears when the unit is powered before the tank is full. Turn the power off, open a hot water tap in the house until water flows steadily with no air, then restore power and press ENTER. Running the elements in an empty tank will burn them out.
Check the Power Supply (F12 / F19)
Low-voltage faults usually point to a weak circuit, a loose connection or a shared circuit. AeroTherm units need a dedicated 240V circuit sized per the rating plate. If the fault repeats, have a licensed electrician check the voltage at the unit.
When to Call a Professional
Call a qualified technician for compressor (F3), fan (F4), sensor (F2, F5–F8) and control-board faults, or any code that returns right after a reset. In most of these cases the unit switches to electric-only heating so you still have hot water, but it will cost more to run until the heat pump is repaired. Write down every code on the display before you call; it speeds up the diagnosis.
How to Prevent Fault Codes
- Install the unit in a space with enough air volume and within the ambient temperature range listed in your manual.
- Clean the air filter whenever the filter light comes on.
- Keep the condensate drain clear and sloped.
- Flush sediment from the tank once a year and test the T&P relief valve.
- Use Heat Pump or Hybrid mode day to day and Vacation mode when you are away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Error Code 50 on a Bradford White AeroTherm?
No. Bradford White heat pump water heaters use F-codes. “50” almost always refers to the 50-gallon model (RE2H50).
Can I Reset an AeroTherm Fault Code Myself?
Yes for filter, drain and dry-tank alerts: fix the cause, then press ENTER or hold the FILTER button. Sensor, fan and compressor faults need a technician.
Will I Still Have Hot Water with a Heat Pump Fault?
Usually. Most heat pump faults switch the unit to electric heating using the upper and lower elements, so you keep hot water at a higher running cost.
How Often Should I Clean the AeroTherm Air Filter?
Whenever the filter light comes on; in dusty basements or garages, check it every month or two.
This guide is general information, not a substitute for an on-site inspection. Turn off power, gas and water before working on equipment, and call a licensed technician for gas, electrical, venting or refrigerant work. If you smell gas, leave the building and call your gas utility or 911 from outside.