Expanded exact-code directory
State gas water heater error codes
State gas water heater codes as Sears PartsDirect (parts and repair reference) lists them, each with its meaning and the first safe check.
- 1 flash with a 3-second pauseListed as normal operation (bright to dim, light).
- 2 flashesListed as thermocouple.
- 4 flashesListed as temperature exceeded.
- 5 flashesListed as sensor failure.
State gas water heater code 7 flashes: meaning and exact next steps
7 flashes means State's service table, as Sears PartsDirect publishes it, lists this code as: gas/thermostat control failure.
Open record State gas water heater · exact codeState gas water heater code 8 flashes: meaning and exact next steps
8 flashes means State's service table, as Sears PartsDirect publishes it, lists this code as: power off failure.
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Every State gas water heater code: what it means and what to do
State gas water heater code 1 flash with a 3-second pause
Listed as normal operation (bright to dim, light).
No corrective action or repair is necessary. Normal operation.
State gas water heater code 2 flashes
Listed as thermocouple.
Check all wiring connections for loose or damaged wires.
Correct if needed. Check the millivolt output on the thermocouple with a multi-meter. If output is less than 350 millivolts DC, replace the thermocouple/pilot assembly. Parts named: thermocouple/pilot assembly.
State gas water heater code 4 flashes
Listed as temperature exceeded.
Turn gas control valve/thermostat knob to OFF. Turn the main gas supply OFF. Replace the gas control valve assembly. Parts named: gas control valve assembly.
State gas water heater code 5 flashes
Listed as sensor failure.
Turn gas control valve/thermostat knob to OFF. Turn the main gas supply OFF. Replace the gas control valve assembly. Parts named: gas control valve assembly.
State gas water heater code LED continuously on
Listed as pilot light was recently extinguished.
Turn the gas control valve/thermostat knob to OFF. Wait 10 minutes for the thermocouple to cool, then attempt to relight the pilot by following the lighting instructions on the water heater's label. Until the thermocouple reaches its normal operating temperature, the status light will not blink, even if the pilot is lit. It may take as long as 90 seconds of continuous pilot operation before the thermocouple reaches normal operating temperature and the status light starts to blink.
State gas water heater code LED not lit
Listed as control off or pilot light is out.
Follow the lighting instructions on the front of the water heater and attempt to relight the pilot light. Visibly verify the pilot is lit.
Sears PartsDirect (parts and repair reference) — State gas water heater error codes
State gas water heater codes
A State gas water heater reports its status with a flashing light on the gas control, and the number of flashes shows the condition, from normal operation to a fault in the thermocouple, the flame sensor or the temperature limiter. Check that the gas supply is on, the pilot or igniter is working and the vent is clear. If you smell gas, leave the house and call the gas supplier.
Do not attempt gas control repairs yourself. Note the flash pattern and the model number from the rating plate and call a licensed plumber or State's service line.
A gas water heater needs fresh air for combustion and a clear vent for exhaust. Do not store paint, petrol or cleaning products near it, and keep the area around it clear. A rumbling noise is often sediment, and a yearly flush helps. The temperature setting should be near 120 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce scalding risk and save energy. If a pilot light keeps going out, a draft, a dirty thermocouple or a failing gas control may be to blame, and a technician should check it.
State's gas water heaters have a gas control with a pilot or an electronic ignition, a thermostat, a burner, a thermocouple or flame sensor and a flue. The status light on the control flashes in a pattern for faults, and this table gives the patterns. The common faults are a pilot that will not stay lit, an ignition fault, a sensor fault and a venting problem. Gas is the key hazard, so the first rule is that a smell of gas means leave and call the utility.
Water heaters need air to burn gas and a clear flue to remove exhaust. Keep the area around the heater free of boxes, paint and cleaning fluids, and do not block the vent at the top. A flame that is yellow, lazy or leaves soot suggests poor combustion and needs a technician at once. A rumbling or popping noise means sediment on the bottom of the tank, which a flush removes.
The temperature setting should be about 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which reduces the risk of scalds and saves energy. A relief valve at the side or top protects against excess pressure and should not be capped. Check once a year that its discharge pipe is clear. An anode rod inside the tank protects it from corrosion, and replacing it every few years extends the heater's life.
What does a flashing light on a State water heater mean?
The number of flashes gives a code. Count them and compare with the label on the heater, then call a plumber for gas faults.
What temperature should the water heater be set to?
About 120 degrees Fahrenheit.