Solenoid valve circuit fault
Displayed as: 71
Rinnai's RU series installation and operation manual lists diagnostic code 71 as "Solenoid Valve Circuit". The manual's checks are: ensure the dip switch on the PC board is in the OFF position, ensure the gas control wire is not loose or damaged, ensure the heater circuit is not grounded, and replace the PC board if the checks do not resolve it.
If you smell gas
- Stop what you are doing. Do not use phones, switches, matches or anything that can spark inside.
- Go outside and leave the door open behind you.
- Call the FortisBC 24-hour emergency line at 1-800-663-9911 or dial 911.
Only after that, call CANRO about the water heater. Official guidance: FortisBC gas leaks and odour.
Applies to
This code and wording come from manual 100000467 for the RU series. The cross-series document 100000652 applies the same code across the generations it covers.
- Rinnai SENSEI RU (Super High Efficiency Plus condensing)
- Rinnai RU130iN
- Rinnai RU160iN
- Rinnai RU180iN
- Rinnai RU199iN
Control platform: Rinnai PC board with digital controller display. Source manual: 100000467 (rev. 07 on rinnai.ca) (2020–2021).
Why a code is not a diagnosis
The control has detected an abnormal condition in the gas solenoid valve circuit. The manual's checks walk through configuration (dip switch), wiring (gas control wire loose or damaged), and isolation (heater circuit grounded) before directing a PC-board replacement, so the code does not by itself identify which of those is true.
Same code, other equipment
- Rinnai non-SENSEI series: Same code family per troubleshooting document 100000652. Source
Safe things to observe
- Note whether the code appeared after any recent work on the unit or its wiring.
- If you smell gas, leave the building and call FortisBC at 1-800-663-9911 or 911.
Do not
- Do not move dip switches or touch the PC board yourself.
- Do not reset repeatedly to force the burner on.
How professional service helps
- A technician verifies the dip switch position, checks the gas control wiring and grounding per the manual, and replaces the PC board only after those checks pass.
Diagnostic visit
Repair visits carry a diagnostic service fee that CANRO states is credited toward the repair if you proceed. The amount is confirmed by phone; it is not published. Source, checked September 7, 2026.
Where CANRO provides on-site service
On-site service is currently offered across Metro Vancouver: Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, New Westminster, Delta, Langley, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, White Rock, Tsawwassen; plus Anmore, Belcarra, Lions Bay, Bowen Island, Abbotsford with travel or ferry arrangements confirmed by phone. Everything else on this site is reference information you can use anywhere in Canada.
Frequently asked questions
What is the solenoid valve circuit?
The gas solenoid valves that open and close the gas path are driven by the PC board through this circuit; code 71 reports the circuit's electrical state is wrong.
Can code 71 clear on its own?
A loose wire can intermittently report and clear, which is exactly why the manual checks the wiring before replacing the board.
Locked out with no hot water? Call with the code ready.
The brand, model and this code are passed along when you request service online, so the technician arrives prepared.
On-site service in Metro Vancouver, BC. Call to check availability.
Sources and verification
- Rinnai RU series Installation and Operation Manual, section 5.6 Diagnostic Codes · 100000467 · accessed September 7, 2026
Facts checked September 7, 2026. Last updated September 7, 2026. Technical reviewer: not yet assigned.