Bradford White heat pump water heater displays E50; unit may default to electric element heating only.
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. The compressor and associated wiring carry high voltage and are part of a sealed refrigerant system.
Steps (visual only for homeowners):
- Listen for compressor: On a call for heat pump operation, note whether the compressor attempts to start (brief hum) or is completely silent.
- Check for obvious wiring damage: Look for burned wires or loose connectors at the compressor contactor or control board.
Do not attempt to open the refrigerant circuit or replace the compressor yourself. E50 faults require diagnosis by a qualified HVAC/heat pump technician who can test compressor windings, start components, and refrigerant pressures.