local PLUMBING'S BLOG POST

Conor Crawford • April 17, 2024

Deciphering Common Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Error Codes: Insights from Local Plumbing for Tiburon, San Rafael, and Kentfield Residents

Rinnai tankless water heaters are renowned for their reliability and efficiency, but like any sophisticated appliance, they can sometimes present error codes that signal operational issues. For residents of Tiburon, San Rafael, and Kentfield, recognizing what these error codes mean can help in maintaining uninterrupted hot water supply. Here at Local Plumbing, based in Sausalito and Petaluma, we're dedicated to providing our local communities with the expert care needed to address these codes promptly.


Frequent Rinnai Error Codes and Their Solutions:


Error Code 10: Air Supply or Exhaust Blockage

  • Cause: This error often occurs when there is a blockage in the air supply or exhaust system.
  • Fix: Check the venting for blockages, correct installation, and ensure proper vent pipe length and clearance.


Error Code 11: Ignition Failure

  • Cause: The water heater fails to ignite, which could be due to insufficient gas supply, faulty igniter, or a problem with the gas valve.
  • Fix: Verify gas supply (including checking if the gas valve is fully open), inspect the igniter for damage, and check electrical connections.


Error Code 14: Thermal Fuse/Overheat

  • Cause: A thermal fuse may trip or the unit is overheating due to restricted airflow or malfunctioning components.
  • Fix: Ensure nothing is restricting airflow around the unit. Check and clean the heat exchanger and inspect for any damaged parts.


Error Code 19: Electrical Grounding Issue

  • Cause: Improper electrical grounding.
  • Fix: Inspect electrical connections for proper grounding and stability. Ensure that the unit is installed according to local codes.


Error Code 25: Condensate Trap Full

  • Cause: This indicates the condensate trap is not draining properly, possibly due to blockages or installation issues.
  • Fix: Check the condensate line for clogs and ensure it is routed properly.


Error Code 31: Burner Sensor Fault

  • Cause: The burner sensor is either faulty or positioned incorrectly.
  • Fix: Check the burner sensor for proper positioning and functionality, and replace if necessary.


Error Code 32: Outgoing Water Temperature Sensor Fault

  • Cause: Faulty or incorrectly installed water temperature sensor.
  • Fix: Replace or correctly install the outgoing water temperature sensor.


Error Code 34: Combustion Air Temperature Sensor Fault

  • Cause: Fault in the sensor monitoring the combustion air temperature.
  • Fix: Sensor replacement is generally required to resolve this issue.


Error Code 79: Water Leak Detected

  • Cause: Internal water leak impacting the unit's operation.
  • Fix: Inspect the unit for leaks, focusing on the heat exchanger and water lines. Repair as necessary.


How Local Plumbing Can Assist:


Residents of Tiburon, San Rafael, and Kentfield looking for reliable solutions to issues with their Rinnai tankless water heaters can count on Local Plumbing. Our team is well-versed in diagnosing and fixing the issues associated with these error codes. We offer:


  • Comprehensive maintenance: To prevent common issues and ensure your unit operates at peak efficiency.
  • Detailed repairs: From sensor replacements to full system checks and cleaning.
  • Professional guidance: On optimizing your Rinnai system or deciding when a replacement is more cost-effective than repair.

Emergency Services: Recognizing that hot water needs can arise unexpectedly, we provide prompt emergency services to ensure that your home remains comfortable and functional.


Local Plumbing, serving the communities of Sausalito, Petaluma, Tiburon, San Rafael, and Kentfield, is your go-to service provider for all Rinnai tankless water heater needs. Whether you need routine maintenance, detailed repairs, or emergency service, our skilled technicians are ready to deliver fast and effective solutions.


For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact us through our website or call us directly. At Local Plumbing, we're here to ensure your Rinnai tankless water heater operates smoothly and efficiently!

By Conor Crawford April 29, 2025
I am happy to annouce Local Plumbing will be taking part in the Cool Petaluma Future Fest 2025 on Sunday, May 4th, at the Petaluma Community Center at Lucchesi Park! The Future Fest is all about promoting climate action, and we’re proud to be part of the movement, particularly in our home town. On the day we’ll be showcasing the latest in energy-efficient home technology — specifically, we have a nice feature on Heat Pump Water Heaters, with a physical demo Heat Pump there to see. Heat pump water heaters are one of the smartest upgrades homeowners can make today. They use up to 70% less energy than traditional gas water heaters, helping to significantly reduce your home’s carbon footprint. Learn how heat pump water heaters work See a real unit up close Talk to our expert plumbers about installation, rebates, and how switching can make a big difference for your home and the environment We’re passionate about helping Petaluma move toward a more sustainable future — and we’d love for you to stop by, say hello, and discover how easy it is to upgrade your home's water heating system. Event Details: 📍 Petaluma Community Center at Lucchesi Park 📅 Sunday, May 4, 2025 ⏰ 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM Come check out our display, meet our team, and enter for a chance to win fun prizes! Let’s build a cooler, greener Petaluma — together.
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Backflow prevention devices are an essential part of protecting your home’s drinking water from contamination. If you’re a homeowner in Marin County, you may be required to install a backflow prevention device on your water service—whether it’s for your domestic water supply, fire sprinkler system, or irrigation. But when is it necessary, and what are the requirements for Marin Water customers? At Local Plumbing, we specialize in backflow prevention installations, testing, and repairs. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your water safe and in compliance with local regulations. What Is a Backflow Prevention Device? A backflow prevention device is a specialized valve designed to stop water from flowing backward into the public water supply. Backflow can occur when there’s a sudden drop in water pressure—like during a firefighting event or a major pipe break—causing contaminated water from private plumbing systems to siphon back into the municipal supply. Common contaminants include: Fertilizers and pesticides from irrigation systems Household cleaning chemicals Bacteria and debris from stagnant or non-potable water sources To prevent this, Marin Water requires certain properties to have backflow prevention assemblies installed and tested annually. When Do You Need a Backflow Prevention Device? Marin Water’s regulations specify that backflow prevention is required in situations where there is a potential risk of contamination. You may be required to install one if: 1. You Have a Fire Sprinkler System Fire sprinkler systems are often connected to the municipal water supply but contain standing water, which can stagnate over time. If backflow occurs, this water could re-enter the drinking supply. To prevent this, Marin Water requires all homes with fire sprinkler systems to have an approved backflow prevention assembly. 2. You Have an Irrigation System Irrigation systems can introduce contaminants like fertilizers, pesticides, and bacteria into your home’s plumbing. If your property has an irrigation system connected to Marin Water’s supply, a backflow prevention device is likely required. 3. Your Home Has an Alternate Water Source If you use a well, rainwater harvesting system, or any other alternative water supply, you are required to install a backflow prevention device to prevent cross-contamination between these sources and the public water system. 4. You Own a Multi-Unit Property or Commercial Building Certain commercial and multi-residential buildings are required to have backflow prevention in place to ensure the safety of all occupants and the broader community. How to Stay in Compliance with Marin Water’s Backflow Regulations Marin Water requires: Initial installation: If you are adding a fire sprinkler, irrigation system, or another potential backflow hazard, a backflow device must be installed by a licensed professional. Annual testing: Once installed, backflow devices must be tested annually by a certified backflow tester to ensure they are functioning properly. Repairs and replacements: If your backflow prevention device fails a test, repairs or replacement may be required to remain compliant. Why Backflow Prevention Matters for Your Home Besides meeting local regulations, installing a backflow prevention device helps: ✅ Protect your drinking water from potential contaminants ✅ Prevent costly plumbing issues caused by backflow contamination ✅ Ensure your home is in compliance with Marin Water’s requirements ✅ Avoid fines or water service interruptions due to non-compliance Need a Backflow Prevention Device Installed or Tested? We Can Help! At Local Plumbing, we specialize in installing, testing, and repairing backflow prevention devices for Marin homeowners. If you’re unsure whether your home requires one or need annual testing, give us a call!
By Conor Crawford March 1, 2025
If you’re a homeowner in Lucas Valley-Marinwood, CA, you know that plumbing problems can arise at the worst possible times. Whether it’s an aging water heater, a clogged drain, or a sudden leak, having a reliable local plumber is crucial. At Local Plumbing, we specialize in residential plumbing services in Marin County, ensuring that your home's plumbing system runs smoothly year-round. Top Plumbing Issues in Lucas Valley-Marinwood, CA 1. Aging Pipes and Leaky Fixtures Many homes in Lucas Valley-Marinwood were built decades ago, meaning they often have aging plumbing systems. Over time, pipes corrode, joints loosen, and leaks develop, leading to water damage, high water bills, and reduced water pressure. If you’ve noticed a spike in your water bill or damp spots on walls or ceilings, it may be time to schedule a plumbing inspection with our experts at Local Plumbing. 2. Sewer Line Blockages & Tree Root Intrusion One of the most common plumbing emergencies we handle in Marinwood and Lucas Valley is sewer line backups caused by tree roots and ground shifting. These blockages can result in slow drains, foul odors, or sewage backups in your home. Our team at Local Plumbing provides trenchless sewer repair and hydro-jetting services to remove blockages and restore flow—without tearing up your yard. If you’re experiencing slow or gurgling drains, don’t wait! Call us today for a video sewer line inspection. 3. Water Heater Repair & Installation Is your water heater struggling to keep up? Whether you have a traditional tank-style heater or a tankless system, regular maintenance is key to preventing costly breakdowns. Hard water in Marin County can cause sediment buildup, which reduces efficiency and shortens the lifespan of your unit. At Local Plumbing, we offer: Water heater flushes & maintenance New tank & tankless water heater installation Water heater repairs for all major brands If your hot water is running out too quickly or your system is over 10 years old, call us for a free estimate on a new energy-efficient water heater today! 4. Drain Cleaning & Hydro-Jetting Slow drains? Recurring clogs? If DIY methods aren’t cutting it, you may need professional drain cleaning services. Our team at Local Plumbing specializes in: Hydro-jetting – High-pressure water clears out grease, debris, and tree roots Snaking & drain augering – Removes stubborn blockages without damaging pipes Preventive drain maintenance – Keep your pipes flowing smoothly year-round If you’re experiencing frequent drain backups in Lucas Valley-Marinwood, contact us today for a same-day drain cleaning service. 5. Emergency Plumbing Services – 24/7 Support Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we! At Local Plumbing, we offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Lucas Valley-Marinwood, so you’re never left dealing with a crisis alone. Common emergency calls we handle include: Burst pipes & major leaks Sewer line backups No hot water issues Gas leaks & emergency gas line repairs If you need fast, reliable emergency plumbing in Marin County, give us a call anytime—we’re here to help! Why Choose Local Plumbing? Licensed & insured local plumbers Fast response times & same-day service Fair, upfront pricing with no hidden fees Trusted by homeowners in Lucas Valley-Marinwood for years Schedule Your Plumbing Service Today! Whether you need drain cleaning, a water heater upgrade, sewer line repair, or emergency plumbing in Lucas Valley-Marinwood, CA, Local Plumbing has you covered. Call us today at 415-484-0454 or schedule your service online for fast, friendly plumbing you can trust.
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