Bradford White heat pump water heater shows E40 and shuts down heat pump operation.
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Turn off power. Do not attempt to open the sealed refrigeration system; this requires EPA-certified service.
Steps:
- Clean air filter: Remove and clean or replace the air filter on the heat pump intake.
- Inspect evaporator coil: Check for dust or lint buildup on the coil fins. Gently clean with a soft brush or vacuum.
- Check fan operation: Restore power briefly and observe if the evaporator fan runs during heat pump operation. If it does not start or is noisy, the fan motor may need replacement.
- Ambient conditions: Ensure the heater is installed in a space that meets Bradford White's temperature and airflow requirements.
If E40 persists after airflow issues are corrected, a high-pressure switch or refrigerant problem is likely. Contact a qualified heat pump technician.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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