Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Error Code 60: How to Fix It
Medium 30-60 minutes Medium Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- 60
- Brand
- Rinnai
- Product Type
- water_heater
- Severity
- Medium
- DIY Difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated Fix Time
- 30-60 minutes
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Tools You'll Need
- Screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead)
- Multimeter
- Brush or compressed air for cleaning
- Socket wrench (if needed for fan removal)
How to Fix Error Code 60
-
Safety First: Power Off the Unit
Always disconnect power and gas before servicing to prevent electric shock or gas leaks. -
Inspect and Clean the Venting System
-
Check the Fan for Physical Obstructions
Be careful not to damage the fan blades. Do not force if stuck. -
Verify Fan Electrical Connections
Make sure power is off before handling electrical connections. -
Test the Fan Motor with a Multimeter
Only perform this test if you are comfortable using a multimeter. Otherwise, skip to step 7. -
Test the Fan Motor Voltage
Exercise extreme caution: line voltage can cause serious injury or death. If unsure, call a professional. -
Replace the Combustion Fan Motor
Ensure the replacement motor matches your model. Using the wrong part may cause further damage.
Parts You May Need
Combustion fan motor
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Combustion fan motor
Check Price on Amazon
Combustion fan motor
Check Price on Amazon
Combustion fan motor
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional
If you've cleaned the vents, checked connections, and tested the fan motor but the error persists, the issue may be with the main control board or gas valve. These repairs require specialized tools and knowledge. Call a licensed HVAC technician or Rinnai service provider.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use my water heater with error code 60?
No, the unit will not operate and may lock out to prevent unsafe operation. Attempting to bypass the error can lead to carbon monoxide buildup or fire. Fix the issue before using the heater.
How much does it cost to fix Rinnai error code 60?
Costs vary: cleaning vents is free, replacing the fan motor costs $100-$300 for parts, plus $150-$400 for professional labor if needed.
Will resetting the unit clear error code 60?
A temporary reset may clear the code, but it will return if the underlying problem isn't fixed. To reset, turn off power for 30 seconds and turn back on. If the code reappears, proceed with troubleshooting.
What does error code 60 mean on a Rinnai tankless water heater?
It indicates a combustion fan motor fault. The fan is either stuck, blocked, electrically faulty, or the control board isn't communicating with it.
Is it safe to clean the fan myself?
Yes, as long as you disconnect power and gas first. Use a brush or compressed air to gently clean fan blades and vents. Avoid touching the motor shaft or electrical connections.