How to Fix Navien Error Code E004

Running into an error code on your Navien tankless water heater is nobody’s idea of a good time. Luckily, some error codes, like E004, occur more than others, meaning experts who are equipped to deal with these error codes can have the issue resolved promptly.

After 15-plus years of diagnosing and addressing tankless water heater error codes in the field, we’ve seen it all. In terms of error codes, there isn’t much we haven’t seen, especially with Navien, since we’ve been partnered with the company for over 13 years and know these machines inside and out.

In this article, we’ll fill you in on what Navien error code E004 means and how you can resolve it. As a heads-up, resolving the error code requires professional assistance. While it can be a drag to have to call for help, the alternative is many articles that will tell you that you can simply unplug and plug your tankless water heater back in to resolve the error code. This is essentially the equivalent of unplugging a car battery to get rid of a check engine light, but the underlying issue will still be there.

Now, let’s jump in by talking about what Navien error code E004 means.A

What Does Navien Error Code E004 Mean?

If Navien Error code E004 pops up on your tankless water heater, it means your unit is experiencing false flame detection. When you run into this issue, the sensor that picks up light from flames is not detecting a flame. While this is one of the more common Navien error codes, it is less frequent than others.

There are a couple of different causes for Navien error code E004. For instance, this error code can trigger due to a blockage in the venting system. It doesn’t stop there, though. If you have a blockage, it can short the onboard circuit board, which is what will ultimately cause false flame detection.

On the other hand, if there is no blockage, you likely have an issue with the heat exchanger, such as a leak.

So, How Do You Fix Navien Error Code E004?

Fixing Navien error code E004 could go either way in terms of complexity. But first, you’ll need to call a technician to resolve the error code to ensure your issue is resolved correctly the first time. Because this issue is slightly more involved in terms of diagnosing and potential fixes, it’s best to leave the heavy lifting to a professional.

After your technician arrives at your home, they’ll thoroughly inspect your Navien tankless water heater and your entire plumbing system to ensure the issue is isolated to your tankless water heater. This process will rule out any other potential issues causing the larger problem at hand.

If the error code is triggering due to a blockage, your technician will clear the blockage. Your technician may find that the blockage caused the onboard circuit.

board to short. If this is the case, the technician will sort out the circuit board and have your Navien tankless water heater up and running in no time.

Your technician may not spot a blockage, leading them to examine your unit’s heat exchanger closer. Typically, if the issue isn’t caused by a blockage or circuit board, it means there’s a leak in the heat exchanger. If this is the case, your technician will need to replace or rebuild your heat exchanger.

An easy way to prevent leaks in your heat exchanger is yearly maintenance. This process will clear build-up in your heat exchanger and prevent blockages from forming, which allows your Navien tankless water heater to run its best without issue. Performing yearly maintenance also helps keep your tankless water heater under warranty. Some manufacturers require logged maintenance by certified technicians to keep the warranty intact.

Having Another Issue?

While resolving one error code is a big win, others may likely pop up throughout your tankless water heater’s lifespan. As mentioned above, an easy way to dodge future issues is by performing yearly maintenance.

Not every area requires the same amount of maintenance for tankless water heaters. For instance, yearly maintenance is key to preventing early breakdowns and leaks in areas with hard water, like Los Angeles County and the surrounding area. Maintenance can also prevent other common Navien error codes from popping up, like Navien error code 11.

To check out other common Navien error codes in Los Angeles County and the surrounding cities, check out this comprehensive list with detailed explanations of their causes.

Brushed Up on Navien Error Code E004

We’ve covered what Navien error code E004 means and how to resolve the issue. Now, you can confidently pick up the phone and talk to a technician to explain your problem. Knowing what’s going on with your Navien tankless water heater will make the entire service process go faster from start to finish so that you can get your home back in working order in no time.

We’ve been partnered with Navien for over 13 of our 15-plus runs in the industry, giving us keen insight into what makes these tankless water heaters tick. With this knowledge base, we’re confident in our ability to diagnose and resolve any Navien error code with relative ease.

If you live in Los Angeles County or a surrounding city and need help with an error code, use one of the buttons below to get in touch or visit our online scheduler to book a consultation or maintenance call.