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Rinnai Code 11 — No Ignition
Your Rinnai tried to light the burner and couldn't. On a Rinnai, Code 11 is almost always a gas-supply problem — the first thing to check is whether the gas is fully on.
Code 11 means the unit went through its ignition sequence but the burner never lit. Because the most common reason is a gas-supply problem, the very first thing to confirm is that the gas valve to the unit is fully open and — if you're on propane — that the tank isn't empty.
Beyond gas supply, Code 11 can come from an undersized gas line that can't keep up when other appliances run, air in the line after a new install or propane refill, or an igniter/flame-rod that's worn or dirty. We start at the gas supply and work in.
What causes Code 11
1. Gas supply or pressure
A gas valve that is closed or only partly open, an empty propane tank, or low supply pressure is the number-one cause. Check that the gas is fully on before anything else.
2. Undersized gas line / competing appliances
If the gas line is undersized or a furnace/stove runs at the same time, pressure can sag below what the Rinnai needs to light. Common after adding gas appliances.
3. Air in the gas line
After a new install or a propane refill, air in the line can prevent ignition until it is purged. Often clears after the line is bled.
4. Igniter or flame rod
A worn igniter or a dirty flame rod can fail to start or confirm the flame. We test these when gas supply checks out.
What you can safely check first
- Make sure the gas valve to the unit is fully open, with the handle parallel to the pipe.
- Confirm other gas appliances work, which tells you the house has gas.
- On propane, check that the tank is not empty.
- One power cycle is reasonable once gas is confirmed.
When to stop and call us
If gas is on and Code 11 returns, the gas pressure, the line size, or the igniter needs a licensed technician with a manometer. Gas work is not a do-it-yourself item.
Seeing Code 11 on your Rinnai?
Book online and we will diagnose the actual cause, explain what we find, and price the repair before starting.
Rinnai Code 11 FAQs
What does Rinnai Code 11 mean?
Code 11 is an ignition failure — the unit tried to light the burner and did not succeed. It locks out for safety rather than keep sending gas without a flame.
What causes Rinnai Code 11?
Most often a gas-supply problem: a gas valve that is closed or partly open, an empty propane tank, or low gas pressure. It can also be an undersized gas line, air in the line after a refill or install, or a worn igniter or flame rod.
Can I fix Code 11 myself?
Safely check the obvious first: make sure the gas valve to the unit is fully open, that other gas appliances work (confirming you have gas), and — on propane — that the tank is not empty. Then power-cycle. If gas is on and Code 11 returns, the gas pressure, line, or igniter needs a licensed tech.
How much does Code 11 repair cost?
The $99 service fee sends a licensed technician out to diagnose the problem. Approve the repair on the spot and the fee is not charged at all; decline it and the $99 covers the visit. If it is simply a valve or a purge, the fix is inexpensive; gas-pressure, gas-line, or igniter work is quoted after we measure and test.
Other codes on this unit? See all Rinnai error codes.
Why South Shore homeowners choose Johnson Bros.
Rinnai Code 11 diagnosed properly
We diagnose the cause rather than clearing the code and hoping. You get an upfront price before any work starts.
Not sure what's wrong? Send a photo or videoBooking online is the quickest way to hold the next open appointment. Call instead if it is urgent and you would rather talk to someone.
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Rinnai Code 11 diagnosed properly
We diagnose the cause rather than clearing the code and hoping. You get an upfront price before any work starts.
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