Rinnai RHFE-551FA User manual

Direct Vent
Service Manual
RHFE-551FA
RHFE-1001FA
RHFE-1001FA/VA
RHFE-201FA
RHFE-263FA, FAII
RHFE-431FA, FAII, FAIII, WTA
RHFE-556FA, FAII, FAIII, FTRA, FTRAIII, WTA
RHFE-1004FA
This document, 200000014 (11/3/2008),
supersedes and replaces the Direct Vent
Service Manual, TDM-DV-2004.

2 Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual
Table of Contents
General Information .................................... 3
Specifications.............................................. 4
Sequence of Operations ............................. 5
Fault Isolation
Accessing Fault Codes......................... 6, 7
Fault Isolation Codes............................ 8, 9
Fault Isolation - Other Issues.................. 10
431FA Series, 556FA/FTRA Series
Troubleshooting ..................................... 11
Wiring Diagrams
431FA Series, 556FA/FTRA ............. 14
556FAIII ............................................ 15
556FTRAIII........................................ 16
Lockout Check List 431FA Series .......... 17
Lockout Check List 556FA/FTRA Series 19
431WTA, 556WTA
Troubleshooting .................................... 21
Wiring Diagrams (431WTA) ................... 24
Wiring Diagrams (556WTA) ................... 25
Lockout Check Lists ............................... 26
551FA, 1001FA, 1001FA/VA
Troubleshooting (551FA)........................ 28
Wiring Diagram (551FA)......................... 31
Troubleshooting (1001FA)...................... 32
Wiring Diagram (1001FA)....................... 34
Troubleshooting (1001FA/VA)................ 35
Wiring Diagram (1001FA/VA)................. 37
Lockout Check List
(100FA, 1001FA/VA, 551FA) ................. 38
201FA, 263FA, 263FAII
Troubleshooting (201FA)........................ 40
Wiring Diagram (201FA)......................... 42
Block Diagram (201FA) .......................... 43
Troubleshooting (263FA, 263FAII) ......... 44
Wiring Diagram (263FA, 263FAII) .......... 46
Block Diagram (263FA, 263FAII) ........... 47
1004F
Troubleshooting Information................ 48
Wiring Diagram.................................... 50
Lockout Check List .............................. 51
Extension Installation Requirements ........ 52
Vent Kits and Extension Sets ................... 53
Vent Extension Covers ............................. 54
Installations at Altitude.............................. 54
Gas Pressure Setting Procedure
(201FA, 263FA, 263FAII) .................... 55
(431FA/WTA, 556FA/WTA) ................. 57
(1004FA) ............................................. 59
Dip Switch Settings................................... 61
Checking Micro-Amps
(431, 556, 201, 263) ................................. 62
Setting up the U Tube Manometer
(431, 556, 201, 263) ................................. 63
Thermistor ................................................ 64
Flame Rectification ................................... 64
Setting a Maximum Temperature
(431, 556, 201, 263) ................................. 64
Harmonic Noise (1004FA) ........................ 65
Wire Diagram Abbreviations ..................... 65
Removal of “OF” on New PC Board
Installation ................................................ 66

Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual 3
General Information
Safety Definitions
This is the safety alert symbol. This symbol alerts you to potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and
others.
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or
moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.
DANGER
CAUTION
WARNING
Recommended Tools
• Volt/Ohm/Amp meter with test probes
• U tube type manometer with 14 inch water column (W.C.) scale, two hoses and two 1/8 inch taps
• assorted wrenches including a 3/16 Allen wrench
• assorted screw drivers
• leak solution or leak detector
Using this Manual
Repairs should be performed by a qualified service technician.
The following information can be referenced for additional information.
• Operation and Installation Manual
• Conversion Manual
• Technical Bulletins
Technical Support
Technicians are available to assist in servicing issues. Contact Rinnai Technical Services at 1-800-621-9419.
WARNING
There are a number of live tests that are required when fault finding this product. Extreme care should be used at
all times to avoid contact with energized components inside the furnace. Before checking for resistance readings
disconnect the power source to the unit and isolate the item from the circuit (unplug it).
If any of the original wire as supplied with the appliance must
be replaced, it must be replaced with type 18 AWG wire or its
equivalent.
Label all wires prior to disconnection when
servicing controls. Wiring errors can cause
improper and dangerous operation.
CAUTION

4 Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual
Specifications
201FA 263FA, FAII
431FA Series,
WTA 556FA/FTRA
Series, WTA 1004FA 551FA 1001FA
1001FA/VA
BTU Input NG 3,000-8,000 5,500-11,000 8,200-16,700 8,200-21,500 10,500-38,400 22,000 (max) 38,400 (max) BTU Input LP 3,000-8,000 5,700-11,000 8,200-16,700 8,200-20,700 10,500-36,500 21,000 (max) 36,500 (max) AFUE Rating
Natural Gas:
80.6%
Propane Gas:
83.4%
Natural Gas:
80%
Propane Gas:
80%
Natural Gas:
80.8%
Propane Gas:
81%
Natural Gas:
80.6%
Propane Gas:
81%
Natural Gas:
80.6%
Propane Gas:
82%
NA NA
Gas Supply Pressure (NG)
4.5-10.5 in
(114-267 mm)
W.C.
3.5-10.5 in
(89-267 mm)
W.C.
3.5-10.5 in
(89-267 mm)
W.C.
5.0-10.5 in (127-
267 mm) W.C.
5.0-10.5 in (127-
267 mm) W.C.
4.5-10.5 in (114-
267 mm) W.C.
5.0-10.5 in (127
-267 mm) W.C.
Gas Supply Pressure (LP)
8-13 in
(203-330 mm)
W.C.
8-13 in
(203-330 mm)
W.C.
8-13 in
(203-330 mm)
W.C.
8-13 in
(203-330 mm)
W.C.
11-13 in
(279-330 mm)
W.C.
11-13 in
(279-330 mm)
W.C.
11-13 in
(279-330 mm)
W.C.
Electrical Connection (at high fire)
AC 120V,
60 Hz,
42 watts
AC 120V,
60 Hz,
47 watts
AC 120V,
60 Hz,
40 watts
AC 120V,
60 Hz,
55 watts
AC 120V,
60 Hz,
121 watts
AC 120V,
60 Hz,
120 watts
AC 120V,
60 Hz,
120 watts
Sound Level 27-34 dB(A) 31-38 dB(A) 32-38 dB(A) 32-41 dB(A) 37-47 dB(A) 35-44 dB(A) 35-46 dB(A) Fan CFM 48.3-78.6 96.4-128.5 110.5-141.3 110.5-162.7 203.4-360.6 135-189 179-289
Weight 39.4 lbs
(17.9 kg) 37 lbs (17 kg) 51 lbs (23 kg) 51 lbs (23 kg) 90 lbs (41 kg) 74 (34 kg) 110 (50 kg)

Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual 5
Sequence of Operations
1. The blower (combustion) motor fan starts and purges the combustion and heat exchanger
chambers making sure that they are clear. The green LED light is on.
2. The blower stages down and the ignition module powers the spark igniter and spark
occurs. When the spark is sensed as being correct, the PCB allows voltage to the
solenoid gas valves and gas enters the chamber. Ignition occurs and the flame rod begins
to prove flame. The blower motor stages back up to high. When the burner is on the LED
glows red indicating the burner is on. If the flame is correct and a secure ground is
available, then the flame rod produces micro-amps and the unit will fire trying to reach your
set room temperature.
3. The convection (room blower) will start on low speed circulating warm air into the structure.
After the PCB compares the set temperature to the room temperature, the seven stage gas
valve and fan control will fire the unit at the most efficient rate to obtain the comfort level as
set.
4. The negative co-efficient thermistor will sense the room temperature at the floor level and
will provide feedback to the PCB to determine the firing rate, fan speed, and run time.
When the set temperature is reached, the red indicator will return to green indicating the
burner is off. The convection fan will continue to run cooling the exchangers and
electronics for about 4 minutes.
5. The LED will be green indicating the unit is on standby. When the structure temperature
drops, the process starts over again.
6. Fresh air for combustion is drawn from outside and exhaust air is eliminated to the outside.
Moisture coming from the vent outside is normal as most high efficient units produce
moisture.

6 Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual
Fault Isolation
If there is a malfunction the appliance may shut down
as a safety precaution and display a fault code to
assist in diagnosing the problem. The fault code will
flash in the display on the control panel.
Fault codes should be used to assist in identifying the
cause of the failure.
After the problem has been corrected, the fault code
will clear only after the appliance has been turned off
and back on. The code will be stored into the memory.
Some faults may cause a hard lockout where the
appliance shuts off and corrective action is required
before the appliance will operate.
Accessing Fault Codes
Up to 10 fault codes are stored in the PC Board and can be recalled by simultaneously pressing the “Economy”
button and both temperature control buttons for 2.5 seconds while the appliance is turned OFF. After the buttons
are released, the fault codes will be displayed in 2 second intervals beginning with the most recent fault code.
Models with analog controls and models with digital LED’s each have their own set of fault codes.
On models RHFE-431WTA, RHFE-556WTA, RHFE-556FTRA:
Under SET the codes in memory are numbered 1 through 10 with “1” as the
most recent. Under ROOM the fault code will be displayed.
Models with analog controls:
The fault code will display by lighting up 1 to 4 of the temperatures at
the same time. For example, if the temperatures 60, 64, and 68 are lit
up then the fault code is 60*64*68 - Abnormal Combustion Fan RPM.
On models RHFE-201FA, RHFE-263FA, RHFE-263FAII, and
RHFE-1004FA:
The codes in memory are numbered 1 through 10 with “1” as the most
recent. The temperature display will show “1” and then show the most
recent fault code. A “2” will then be displayed followed by the second
most recent fault code. The 10 most recent fault codes will be displayed
in this manner.
SET ROOM
1 61
SET ROOM
2 14
1 61 2 14
LO 60 64 68 72 76 80 HI

Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual 7
RHFE-431WTA,
RHFE-556WTA
5082 combustion hours
18420 combustion cycles (multiply displayed number by 10)
125 power failures
Accessing Operation History
RHFE-431FA, RHFE-556FA
After the fault codes, the heater will display the combustion hours and combustion cycles (number of times the
unit is turned on and off). The combustion time will display first in two parts followed by the combustion cycles
displayed in two parts.
Combustion Time
1. The temperature display will indicate a 16 digit binary number. A light indicates a “1”. A position not lighted,
indicates a “0”. Read this number using the example below.
LO 60 64 68 72 76 80 HI
LO 60 64 68 72 76 80 HI
LO 60 64 68 72 76 80 HI
LO 60 64 68 72 76 80 HI
This indicates the first 8 digits as follows: 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1
This indicates the next 8 digits as follows: 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0
2. Use a calculator with binary and decimal functions. Set the calculator to binary, “BIN”, and enter the 16 digits.
(0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 in the example above.)
3. Press the decimal function, “DEC”, and the combustion time in hours will display. The combustion hours in
this example is 16848.
Combustion Cycles
1. The temperature display will indicate a 16 digit binary number. A light indicates a “1”. A position not lighted,
indicates a “0”. Read this number using the example below.
This indicates the first 8 digits as follows: 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0
This indicates the next 8 digits as follows: 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1
2. Use a calculator with binary and decimal functions. Set the calculator to binary, “BIN”, and enter the 16 digits.
(1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 in the example above.)
3. Press the decimal function, “DEC”, and multiply the displayed number by 10 to obtain the combustion cycles.
The combustion cycles in this example is 512,490.
50 82
18 42
1 25
SET ROOM
50 82
18 42
1 25
After the fault codes, the heater will display the
combustion hours, combustion cycles (number of times
the unit is turned on and off), and power failure
frequency.
RHFE-201FA,
RHFE-263FA,
RHFE-263FAII,
RHFE-1004FA,
RHFE-556FTRA

8 Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual
Analog
Indicator
Light
Digital
LED Name Definition Corrective Action
LO-HI PF --
:--
Power Failure Electric power has
been lost while the
appliance was running
Check that the power cord is firmly inserted into
the electrical outlet.
Check the 3 amp fuse.
Check whether the fuse or breaker has blown at
the switch board.
60 11 Missed Ignition Flame rod current
does not reach 1.0
microamp within a
certain time after the
solenoid opens.
Check that the flame rod is firmly positioned.
Check the flame rod lead.
Check the flame rod for carbon build up.
Check that the correct gas is being used.
Check the supply pressure at the meter and at
the appliance.
Check that there are no leaks in the gas supply
line or appliance.
Check for air in the gas supply.
LO 12 Flame Failure Flame rod current
remains below 1.0
microamp for 3
seconds during initial
combustion
Check that the correct gas is being used.
Check the supply pressure at the meter and at
the appliance.
Check that there are no leaks in the gas supply
line or appliance.
Check for air in the gas supply.
68 14 Overheat Safety
Device
High limit temperature
thermistor or thermal
fuse has activated
Check that the correct gas is being used.
Check the supply pressure at the meter and at
the appliance.
Check that the flue terminal is not blocked.
Check that the air filter is not blocked.
Check that the warm air flow is not blocked.
(There should be a clearance of 40 inches in front
of the appliance.)
HI 16 Over
Temperature
Cut Off
Room temperature is
above 104ºF for
longer than 10
minutes
Check that the correct gas is being used.
Check the supply pressure at the meter and at
the appliance.
Check that the flue terminal is not blocked.
Check that the air filter is not blocked.
Check that the warm air flow is not blocked.
(There should be a clearance of 40 inches in front
of the appliance.)
72 76 31 Room
Temperature
Thermistor
Disconnection
Room temperature
thermistor circuit is
open
Check the circuit. (troubleshooting)
76 80 32 Room
temperature
thermistor short
circuit
Room temperature
thermistor wire is
trapped or touching
bare metal.
Check the circuit. (troubleshooting)
Fault Isolation Codes

Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual 9
Analog
Indicator
Light
Digital
LED Name Definition Corrective Action
64 68 72 33 High-limit
thermistor
disconnection
High limit thermistor
circuit is open.
Check the circuit. (troubleshooting)
68 72 76 34 High-limit
thermistor short
circuit
High limit thermistor
wire is trapped or
touching bare metal.
Check the circuit. (troubleshooting)
LO 60 64 53 Abnormal spark
sensed
• Sparker is not off
within 20 seconds of
ignition.
• 1st spark is not
sensed within 2
seconds
• 2nd spark is not
continuous for 1
second after
solenoid valve
opens
Replace sparker
60 64 68 61 Abnormal
Combustion Fan
RPM
RPM is not achieved
within a certain time or
exceeds the RPM
limit.
Check for obstacle preventing fan from turning
freely.
Check wiring harness to motor for damage or
loose connections.
64 68 70 ON/OFF Switch
Failure
The ON/OFF switch
connects continuously
for more than 15
seconds.
Check the circuit. (troubleshooting)
Replace switch.
LO 60 71 Solenoid Valve
Failure
For either solenoid
valve, SV1 or SV2, the
signal and response
signal are different.
Check the circuit. (troubleshooting)
Replace gas valve.
80 72 Flame Rod
Failure
Flame rod output does
not cease within 20
seconds
Check the circuit. (troubleshooting)
Replace flame rod.
72 76 80
HI
73 Communication
Failure
Data transfer between
CPU and E2PROM
fails.
Disconnect the power and re-apply power.
NA 49 Pressure Sensor No signal from the
pressure sensor.
Check the circuit. (troubleshooting)
NA 99 Flue Block The pressure sensor
signal is below its limit.
Check the flue and termination for proper
installation and blockage.
60 64 68
72 76
NA Flue Block Flue blockage has
been detected based
on fan speed.
Check the flue and termination for proper
installation and blockage.
Fault Isolation Codes

10 Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual
Heater does not operate. Is the heater plugged in?
Have the fuses or breaker blown at the fuse box / breaker panel?
Is there a power failure?
Is the air filter blocked?
Is anything blocking the outlet for the hot air?
Is the flue blocked?
AT IGNITION:
Warm air does not flow when the burner
lights.
The fan is started automatically after a short delay. This is to allow the
heat exchanger to warm up, helping to avoid cold draughts.
Smoke or strange smells are produced
on the first trial light up after installation.
This is caused by grease, oil, or dust on the heat exchanger and will stop
after a short time.
Sharp clicking noised at ignition, or
when unit shuts down, or goes out.
This is simply expansion noise from the heat exchanger.
DURING COMBUSTION:
Clunking noise when the thermostat
operates.
This is the sound of the solenoid gas valves opening and closing.
Unit is not heating room. Is the air filter blocked?
Is the set temperature high enough?
Is the warm air outlet blocked by anything?
Are the doors and windows of the room closed?
Was the appliance correctly sized for the space?
Air filter is blocked or the louvers are
blocked.
Allow heater to cool, clean air filter, and operate again.
Heater will not re-ignite after overheating Even after unit has cooled down, the heater does not ignite again. Repair
is necessary by a qualified service provider.
DURING COMBUSTION:
Convection fan continues to run after
turning OFF
This is to remove the residual heat from the heat exchanger. The fan will
stop when the heater cools down.
OTHER POINTS:
Steam is discharged from the flue
terminal.
High efficiency appliances tend to discharge water vapor on cold days.
This is normal.
Unit shuts off without apparent reason. Check whether filters are blocked. Dirty filters will cause the heater to
overheat.
Power Failure Switch OFF, then ON again when power is restored to re-set controls.
Fault Isolation - Other Issues

Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual 11
(TR) Transformer:
Read Voltage across:
(SP) Sparker Board:
Set your voltage meter on the 400k scale, unplug the (5) pin connector on the sparker board. When reading
across the two lugs the blue and red wire connect to, you should read somewhere between 100k and 120k ohms
of resistance. When checking the spark sensing circuit, check across the orange wire (pin #35) and grey wire (pin
#32) on your 40 VDC scale. You should read between 4 - 5 VDC. During the spark this voltage will drop to
approximately 0 VDC. Once unit ignites the voltage will go back up to 4 - 5 VDC.
(POV, SV1, and SV2) Gas valve solenoids:
*Remember, when reading the resistance of a solenoid coil, you should read across the lugs on the coil.
RHFE-431FA Series
RHFE-556FA/FTRA Series
Troubleshooting
WARNING
There are a number of live tests that are required when fault finding this product. Extreme care should be used at
all times to avoid contact with energized components inside the furnace.
You MUST be a qualified service person before proceeding with these test instructions.
Before checking resistance readings, turn off power source to unit and then isolate each item to be checked from
the circuit by unplugging it.
When setting gas pressures on one of these units, please check the complete model number you are trouble-
shooting. Gas pressures and dip switches can vary among models. Always check the rating plate for complete
information and follow directions.
Gray - Gray 4.5 VDC low fire to
11.5 VDC high fire 80 - 100 ohms 43 - 45
Black - Yellow 85 - 90 VDC 1,300 - 2,000 ohms 31 - 34
WIRE COLOR VOLTAGE RESISTANCE * PIN NO.
Blue - Red 85 - 110 VAC see below 33 - 36
WIRE COLOR VOLTAGE
RESISTANCE
READING
PIN
NUMBERS
WIRE COLOR VOLTAGE RESISTANCE PIN NO.
White - White 98 - 105 VAC 6 - 19 ohms 26 - 30
Red - Red 28 - 50 VAC 1 - 3 ohms 24 - 28
Black - Blue 10 - 15 VAC 0.5 - 2 ohms 25 - 29
Blue - Yellow 130 - 185 VAC 200 - 400 ohms 23 - 29
Gray - Gray 110 - 120 VAC 10 - 14 ohms 19 - 20

12 Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual
(BL) Combustion Motor:
NOTE: If your meter does not have a hertz scale, please
refer to voltage and resistance readings listed
below. If you have a hertz scale, check the
following items first. Hertz reading across black -
white wires, pins 41 and 42.
RHFE-431 - LP UNITS RHFE-556 LP UNITS
Lo fire - 44 Hz. Lo fire - 47 Hz.
Hi fire - 81 Hz. Hi fire - 106 Hz.
Voltage and resistance check for (BL).
(TH) Thermistor:
Check the thermistor by inserting meter leads into each end of the thermistor plug. Set your meter to the 200k
scale and read resistance. You should be able to apply heat to the thermistor bulb and see the resistance
decrease. Then apply ice to the thermistor bulb and the resistance should increase.
EXAMPLES: 41 °F = 91 k ohms
50 °F = 65 k ohms
68 °F = 39 k ohms
86 °F = 23 k ohms
(FR) Flame Rod:
Flame rod - yellow wire = pin #27. Low fire current should be 1.3 to 2.0 micro amps (Fa). High fire current should
be 4 to 8 micro amps, depending on gas type being used.
NOTE: Improperly setup and/or converted units can soot and cause carbon to accumulate on flame rods. This
will cause hard lockouts. If carbon is found on the flame rod, remove and clean carbon from rod. Then
you will need to confirm manifold gas pressure, proper air dampers and ensure vent is clear. Also, check
for proper orifices.
RHFE-431 NG UNITS RHFE-556 NG UNITS
Lo fire - 44 Hz. Lo fire - 48 Hz.
Hi fire - 81 Hz. Hi fire - 106 Hz.
(FM) Convection fan motor:
Red - Yellow 1-2 VDC low fire to 7.6
-18 VDC high fire 1.2 - 1.8 mega ohms 39 - 40
Black - White N/A 9.4 k - 9.9 k ohms 41 - 42
WIRE COLOR VOLTAGE RESISTANCE PIN NO.
WIRE COLOR VOLTAGE RESISTANCE PIN NO.
Red - Gray 80-94 VAC low fire to
95-104 VAC high fire 90-180 ohms 21 - 22
RHFE-431FA Series
RHFE-556FA/FTRA Series
Troubleshooting

Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual 13
(H1, H2and H3) Safety Circuit:
Check for continuity across pins 44 and 46 at terminal H on the PC board. If you have no continuity, this means
one of these switch/thermal fuses is open. Replace defective component.
(OH - TH) Overheat Thermistor:
Check resistance reading across pins 12 and 13 at terminal A on the PC board. Proper readings should be 0.6 k
and 523 k. A reading below 0.6 k ohms indicates a short and a reading above 523k indicates an open circuit.
(MS) On/Off Control:
To check to ensure the on/off button is functioning, unplug terminal I. Place (1) lead of your meter on the red wire
for pin #66 and the other lead on the blue wire for pin#68. Now press the on/off button and you should be able to
read continuity through this switch each time the button is pressed.
(TB) Terminal Block:
This terminal is located on the right rear upper portion of the unit. On direct vents the jumper should be across
terminals 2 and 3. On units with vent extensions over four feet, this jumper should be across terminals 1 and 2.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION CONCERNING HARD LOCKOUTS:
Other items that can cause lockouts are: Improperly converted units, spider webs in burner and
air intake of vent system, improperly sized gas lines, low gas pressures or pressure drops due to other appliances
on the gas system, improper ground or no ground at receptacle, supply regulators freezing up or defective,
voltage drops or bad receptacle, winds in excess of 30 to 40 MPH causing turbulence inside the vent terminal, etc.
RHFE-431FA Series
RHFE-556FA/FTRA Series
Troubleshooting

14 Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual
RHFE-431FA Series
RHFE-556FA/FTRA
Wire Diagram

Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual 15
RHFE-556FAIII
Wire Diagram

16 Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual
RHFE-556FTRAIII
Wire Diagram

Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual 17
RHFE-431FA Series
Lock Out Checklist
1. Check high fire manifold differential pressure, gas pressure should be:
4.4" WC on the RHFE-431FA and the RHFE-431FA-II propane units.
2.8" WC on the RHFE-431FA-III propane unit.
2.1" WC on the RHFE-431FA natural gas unit.
3.5" WC on the RHFE-431FA-II natural gas unit.
2.4" WC on the RHFE-431FA-III natural gas unit.
2. Check low fire manifold differential pressure, gas pressure should be:
1" WC on the RHFE-431FA and the RHFE-431FA-II propane units.
0.8" WC on the RHFE-431FA-III propane unit.
0.4" WC on the RHFE-431FA natural gas unit.
0.8" WC on the RHFE-431FA-II natural gas unit.
0.7" WC on the RHFE-431FA-III natural gas unit.
3. Ensure proper secondary air damper has been installed.
Propane secondary air damper has (15) small holes in it.
Natural gas secondary air damper has (1) large hole cut out in it, 1 1/4" x 1 3/4".
4. Ensure unit has proper size orifices in it.
Orifice sizes for the RHFE-431FA and the RHFE-431FA-II propane unit are 0.75 mm or 0.029", part #
AU129-210x02-0.75.
Orifice sizes for the RHFE-431FA-III propane units are 0.85mm or 0.033" - part # AU129-210x02- 0.85.
Orifice sizes for the RHFE-431FA natural gas units are 1.15mm or 0.045" - part # AU129-210x02-1.15.
Orifice sizes for the RHFE-431FA-II natural gas units are 1.00mm or 0.039" - part # AU129x210x02-1.00.
Orifice size for the RHFE-431FA-III natural gas units are 1.13mm or 0.044" - part # AU129-210x02-1.13.
5. Ensure gas type listed on rating plate matches gas type connected to unit.
6. Check for proper dip switch settings on PC board:
Proper settings for the RHFE-431FA and the RHFE-431FA-II propane unit is switch #1 is ON, switch #2
OFF, switch #3 ON, and switch #4 ON.
Proper settings for the RHFE-431FA-III propane unit is, switch #1 is ON, switch #2 ON, switch #3 ON, and
switch #4 ON.
Proper settings for the RHFE-431FA and the RHFE-431FA-II natural gas units is switch #1 is OFF, switch
#2 ON, switch #3 ON, and switch #4 ON.
Proper settings for the RHFE-431FA-III natural gas unit is switch #1 is OFF, switch #2 OFF, switch #3 ON,
and switch #4 ON.
7. Inspect wall vent to ensure it is not clogged or restricted in any way. For proper inspection of the
combustion chamber air way, vent MUST be removed from wall.
8. Remove flame rod and electrode and inspect for cracks and/or carbon buildup. Clean flame rod and
electrode with sand paper. Also, check electrode gap setting, should be 1/8" - 3/16".
9. Check all wire connections for loose and/or broken pins or connections. Disconnect electrical power before
performing above task.

18 Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual
10. Check resistance on all three gas solenoid valve coils. Unplug each coil before reading resistance. Set
your meter on the 2k scale, you should read somewhere between 1,200 to 1,900 ohms across SV1 and SV2.
Coils SV1 and SV2 each have (1) yellow and (1) black wire. The POV valve with two gray wires should read
somewhere between 80 - 100 ohms of resistance. Next plug the coils back up and turn the unit on. When the
unit is going through the ignition cycle you should have 90 VDC to SV1 and SV2 solenoids. Make sure you
have your meter set to read 100 VDC. Across the POV coil you will read somewhere between 1 - 35 VDC. If
the unit goes to lockout before you have time to read all the coils, you may have to cycle it two or three times.
11. Check for voltage and resistance readings across transformer listed below. Remember any time you are
taking resistance readings, disconnect power to the unit and isolate item being checked.
Across the two white wires you should have 100 VAC or 11.2 ohms.
Across the two red wires you should have 30 VAC or 1.6 ohms.
Across the black and blue wires you should have 13.5 VAC or 1.4 ohms.
Across the blue and yellow output wire from the transformer you should have 155 VAC or 250 ohms.
Across the two gray wires you should have 120 VAC or 12 ohms.
12. Ensure the vent assembly does not exceed thirteen feet and two elbows. Maximum vertical run is eight
feet, then the vent must run horizontal.
13. Ensure jumper for vent extension on rear of your unit is connected to proper terminals. Terminals 2 and 3
are for direct vent, terminals 1 and 2 are used for vent extension of four feet or more.
14. Check thermistor by inserting meter leads into each end of the thermistor plug. Set your meter to the
200k scale and read resistance. You should be able to apply heat to the thermistor bulb and see the
resistance decrease, then place some ice to thermistor and the resistance should increase.
15. Check flame rod circuit on low fire. Cycle unit down to low flame for ten minutes then take flame circuit
reading. The reading should be above 1.2 micro amps.
16. Ensure unit is plugged into a properly grounded outlet. Do not assume you have a ground, check with
your voltage meter.
17. Check for proper polarity of the receptacle.
18. Check ignition circuit, when unit is in the process of ignition, you should have 100 VAC across the blue
and red wires connected to the ignition module.
19. Check for frozen regulators in supply lines.
20. If further assistance is needed, please contact your distributor. If they are unable to assist you with repairs,
contact Rinnai America's service department at 1-800-621-9419.
NOTE: Before any items/products are to be returned to Rinnai, you must first obtain a return authorization
number. Any items returned without this number will be returned at owner's/shipper's expense.
RHFE-431FA Series
Lock Out Checklist

Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual 19
1. Check high fire manifold differential pressure, gas pressure should be:
4.5" WC on the RHFE-556FA/FTRA and the RHFE-556FA/FTRA-III propane gas units.
3.8" WC on the RHFE-556FA/FTRA and the RHFE-556FA/FTRA-III on natural gas.
2. Check low fire manifold differential pressure, gas pressure should be:
0.8" WC on the RHFE-556FA/FTRA and the RHFE-556FA/FTRA-III propane gas units.
0.7" WC on the RHFE-556FA/FTRA and the RHFE-556FA/FTRA-III natural gas units.
3. Ensure proper secondary air damper has been installed.
Propane secondary air damper has (15) small holes in it - PART # 556F-208-5.
Natural gas secondary air damper has (1) large hole cut out in it, 1 1/4" x 1 3/4" - part # 556F-208-7.
4. Ensure unit has proper size orifices in it.
Orifice sizes for the RHFE-556FA/FTRA and the RHFE-556FA/FTRA-III propane gas units are 0.85mm or
0.033" - part # AU129-210x02-0.85.
Orifice sizes for the RHFE-556FA/FTRA and the RHFE-556FA/FTRA-III natural gas are 1.13mm or 0.044"
–part # AU129-210x02-1.13.
5. Ensure gas type listed on rating plate matches gas type connected to unit.
6. Check for proper dip switch settings on PC board:
Proper settings for the RHFE-556FA and the RHFE-556FTRA propane unit is switch #1 is ON, switch #2
OFF, switch #3 OFF and switch #4 OFF.
Proper settings for the RHFE-556FA-III and the RHFE-556FTRA-III propane unit is, switch #1 is ON,
switch #2 ON, switch #3 OFF and switch #4 OFF.
Proper settings for the RHFE-556FA and the RHFE-556FTRA natural gas units is switch #1 is OFF,
switch #2 ON, switch #3 OFF and switch #4 OFF
Proper settings for the RHFE-556FA-III and the RHFE-556FTRA-III natural gas unit is switch #1 is OFF,
switch #2 OFF, switch #3 OFF and switch #4 OFF
7. Inspect wall vent to ensure it is not clogged or restricted in any way. For proper inspection of the
combustion chamber air way, vent MUST be removed from wall.
8. Remove flame rod and electrode and inspect for cracks and/or carbon buildup. Clean flame rod and
electrode with sand paper. Also, check electrode gap setting, should be 1/8" - 3/16".
9. Check all wire connections for loose and/or broken pins or connections. Disconnect electrical power before
performing above task.
10. Check resistance on all three gas solenoid valve coils. Unplug each coil before reading resistance. Set
your meter on the 2k scale, you should read somewhere between 1,200 to 1,900 ohms across SV1 and SV2.
Coils SV1 and SV2 each have (1) yellow and (1) black wire. The POV valve with two gray wires should read
somewhere between 80 - 100 ohms of resistance. Next plug the coils back up and turn the unit on. When the
unit is going through the ignition cycle you should have 90 VDC to SV1 and SV2 solenoids. Make sure you
have your meter set to read 100 VDC. Across the POV coil you will read somewhere between 1 - 35 VDC. If
the unit goes to lockout before you have time to read all the coils, you may have to cycle it two or three times.
RHFE-556FA/FTRA Series
Lock Out Checklist

20 Rinnai Direct Vent Service Manual
11. Check for voltage and resistance readings across transformer listed below. Remember any time you are
taking resistance readings, disconnect power to the unit and isolate item being checked.
Across the two white wires you should have 100 VAC or 11.3 ohms.
Across the two red wires you should have 30 VAC or 1.6 ohms.
Across the black and blue wires you should have 13.5 VAC or 1.4 ohms.
Across the blue and yellow output wire from the transformer should have 155 VAC or 250 ohms.
Across the two gray wires you should have 120 VAC or 12 ohms.
12. Ensure the vent assembly does not exceed thirteen feet and two elbows. Maximum vertical run is eight
feet, then the vent must run horizontal.
13. Ensure jumper for vent extension on rear of your unit is connected to proper terminals. Terminals 2 and 3
are for direct vent, terminals 1 and 2 are used for vent extension of four feet or more.
14. Check thermistor by inserting meter leads into each end of the thermistor plug. Set your meter to the
200k scale and read resistance. You should be able to apply heat to the thermistor bulb and see the
resistance decrease, then place some ice to thermistor and the resistance should increase.
15. Check flame rod circuit on low fire. Cycle unit down to low flame for ten minutes then take flame circuit
reading. The reading should be above 1.2 micro amps.
16. Ensure unit is plugged into a properly grounded outlet. Do not assume you have a ground, check with
your voltage meter.
17. Check for proper polarity of the receptacle.
18. Check ignition circuit, when unit is in the process of ignition, you should have 100 VAC across the blue
and red wires connected to the ignition module.
19. Check for frozen regulators in supply lines.
20. If further assistance is needed, please contact your distributor. If they are unable to assist you with repairs,
contact Rinnai America's service department at 1-800-621-9419.
NOTE: Before any items/products are to be returned to Rinnai, you must first obtain a return authorization
number. Any items returned without this number will be returned at owner's/shipper's expense.
RHFE-556FA/FTRA Series
Lock Out Checklist