So, you’ve run into Noritz error code 16? Not to worry. Error codes are a fairly common occurrence on tankless water heaters, and Noritz models are no different.
For over 15 years, we’ve helped residents of Los Angeles County and its surrounding areas diagnose and resolve Noritz error codes. Because we train extensively alongside Noritz, our technicians know these tankless water heaters like the back of their hands. Our relationship with Noritz allows us to be effective in the field and get our customers’ hot water flowing in no time.
In this article, we’ll address what Noritz error code 16 means and how to fix it. To be fully transparent about the process, you’ll need the help of a professional to get the job done right the first time and to ensure the safety of you and your family. After this article, you’ll be able to talk about your issue more in-depth, so you can feel confident when calling a technician for assistance.
Before we dive into the article, you can get an even deeper understanding of the Noritz brand by checking out our Noritz Tankless Water Heater Guide.
Now, let’s jump in with a quick overview of what Noritz error code 16 actually means aside from a random number on a display.
What Does Noritz Error Code 16 Mean?
If you run into Noritz error code 16, it means that your tankless water heater is detecting a rising outlet water temperature. While this sounds like a concrete cause, it’s really only a symptom of another problem that’s hidden away.
Noritz error code 16 typically crops up when there is scale build-up in the heat exchanger. If you’ve got scale build-up in your heat exchanger, the heat transfer process won’t be nearly as efficient as a clean unit. Because your Noritz tankless water heater will have to work much harder to reach the unit’s set temperature, it can run hotter than necessary, resulting in error code 16.
There are ways to avoid issues like Noritz error code 16, though. Water treatment in regions with hard water works like a charm in defending against scale build-up. If you live in an area with hard water, water treatment is often seen by many professionals as a necessity.
So, How Do You Fix Noritz Error Code 16?
To fix error code 16, you’ll need the help of a professional. Once you’ve called out a technician to your home, they’ll provide you with an inspection of the tankless water heater and, in some cases, your entire plumbing system to detect any other issues that may be causing the problem.
Once the technician has completed their inspection, they’ll most likely recommend a descale of the tankless water heater. This process involves cleaning out crucial components, mainly the heat exchanger, to rid the system of any scale build-up.
If you don’t have water treatment already, your technician may recommend installing a system to prevent error codes like this one in the future. Water treatment, as previously mentioned, can make all the difference in prolonging the life of your tankless water heater and ensuring a maximum return on your investment.
Having Trouble with Another Issue?
It’s possible that you may run into other error codes over the lifespan of your Noritz tankless water heater. Despite Noritz being one of the top brands on the market, error codes can and do pop up with regularity, meaning you might experience more than just error code 16.
While some error codes can be tricky and outright expensive to resolve, others, like error code 16, resolve easily with the help of a technician. For example, Noritz error code 12 is easily resolved in many cases by simply removing debris from the intake or exhaust. On the other hand, other error codes are only solved by replacing major components like the heat exchanger.
Although there are many different error codes for Noritz tankless water heaters, the best and safest course of action is to always reach out to a technician for help. We understand the value of having a strong DIY mentality, tankless water heater maintenance is typically best left in the hands of professionals who work with these machines day in and day out.
Ready to Tackle Noritz Error Code 16?
We’ve touched on what Noritz error code 16 is and how you can fix it. While you’ll ultimately need the help of a professional, now you can confidently pick up the phone and explain your issue clearly to a representative.
After over 15 years of experience diagnosing and addressing Noritz tankless water heater error codes, we have a firm grasp of any issue these machines can throw at us. Our partnership with Noritz also gives us insider knowledge about the company’s tankless water heaters and how to best address any problem you may encounter.
If you’re having trouble with Noritz error code 16 or any other error code, visit our online scheduler or click one of the buttons below to book a consultation.
For a look at how to prevent error codes from forming in the future, brush up on yearly maintenance and how technicians prepare tankless water heaters to serve you for years to come. If you're curious to know more about Noritz products beyond this particular error code, check out our Noritz Tankless Water Heater Guide.
