Takagi Water Heater Error Code 31: How to Fix It

Medium 30-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
31
Brand
Takagi
Product Type
water_heater
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
Error code 31 on a Takagi tankless water heater indicates a fault with the inlet thermistor — the sensor that measures the temperature of cold water entering the unit. When this sensor fails or reads an out-of-range temperature, the heater shuts down as a safety precaution to prevent damage or dangerous operation. In many cases this is caused by a faulty thermistor, loose wiring, or a blocked water flow affecting the sensor reading.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 31

  1. Power Cycle the Water Heater

    Do not attempt any internal inspection with the unit powered on. Always shut off power at the breaker before opening the unit.
  2. Check Water Supply and Flow Rate

  3. Inspect the Inlet Filter Screen

    Turn off the cold water supply valve before disconnecting any water lines to avoid flooding. Have a towel and bucket ready to catch residual water.
  4. Locate and Inspect the Inlet Thermistor Wiring

    Always confirm power is off at the breaker before removing the access panel or touching any internal components.
  5. Test the Inlet Thermistor with a Multimeter

    Do not test resistance with the unit powered on — this will damage your multimeter and may cause electric shock.
  6. Replace the Inlet Thermistor

    Use only a thermistor designed for your specific Takagi model. Installing an incorrect thermistor can result in dangerous water temperatures or continued error codes.
  7. Inspect the Control Board if Error Persists

    Control board replacement is a complex repair. If you are not experienced with electronics, call a licensed plumber or Takagi-authorized technician at this stage.

Parts You May Need

Inlet thermistor sensor
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Inlet filter screen
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Inlet thermistor sensor
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Inlet filter screen
Check Price on Amazon
Inlet thermistor sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Inlet filter screen
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

Call a licensed plumber or Takagi-authorized service technician if: (1) you are not comfortable working inside the unit; (2) you have replaced the inlet thermistor and the error code persists; (3) there is visible damage to the control board or wiring; (4) the unit is still under warranty, as DIY internal repairs may void coverage; or (5) you notice any signs of gas leaks, water leaks inside the unit, or burning smells.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code 31 mean on a Takagi tankless water heater?
Error code 31 on a Takagi water heater indicates a fault with the inlet thermistor — the sensor that monitors the temperature of incoming cold water. The unit shuts down to prevent unsafe operation when this sensor reads an abnormal or out-of-range value.
Can I reset a Takagi error code 31 without fixing anything?
You can try a power cycle reset by turning off the breaker for 30 seconds and restarting the unit. This clears temporary glitches. However, if the underlying thermistor is faulty, the code will return. A reset alone is not a permanent fix.
How much does it cost to replace a Takagi inlet thermistor?
The inlet thermistor part itself typically costs between $15 and $50 depending on your model. If you hire a plumber or technician for the repair, expect to add $75 to $150 or more in labor costs, making the total repair roughly $90 to $200.
Will error code 31 prevent my Takagi from producing any hot water?
Yes, in most cases error code 31 will cause the Takagi heater to shut down completely and stop producing hot water as a safety measure. The heater will not operate normally until the thermistor fault is resolved and the error is cleared.
How do I find the model number on my Takagi water heater?
The model number is printed on the rating label or data plate, which is typically located on the front face or side of the unit. You will need this model number to source the correct replacement inlet thermistor for your specific heater.