Electronics, sensor or gas valve fault (ICON System)
LED: 5 flashes, 3-second pause
On the ICON System V2 control, five red flashes with a three-second pause mean "Electronics, sensor, or gas valve fault detected". On the ICON System V1 control, five flashes mean "Temperature sensor fault". Both point inside the control system rather than at the pilot or burner.
Applies to
Applies to atmospheric and power-vent residential gas tanks fitted with an ICON System electronic gas control. The V1 chart describes the fault as a temperature sensor fault with the sensor's resistance out of range or the sensor unplugged; the V2 chart adds electronics and gas valve faults to the same pattern.
- Bradford White Defender Safety System atmospheric vent (RG2)
- Bradford White RG240T6N
- Bradford White RG230T6N
- Bradford White RG240S6N
- Bradford White RG250T6N
- Bradford White RG250S6N
- Bradford White RG230S6N
- Bradford White RG130T6N
- Bradford White RG140T6N
- Bradford White RG150T6N
- Bradford White RG250L6N
- Bradford White RG260T6N
Control platform: Bradford White ICON System electronic gas control (V1 single-colour or V2 coloured LED status light). Source manual: 238-51542-00E (REV 08/22).
Why a code is not a diagnosis
The pattern groups several internal faults. On V1 the manual checks the temperature sensor and its connection before replacing the control; on V2 the probable causes listed are a damaged temperature sensor, an open or shorted connection, or a resistance difference between the sensor elements, with the gas control replaced after checks.
Same code, other equipment
- White Rodgers electronic gas control (green LED): Five flashes with a three-second pause mean electronics, sensor or gas valve fault detected, per the same service manual. Source
Safe things to observe
- Note the colour and count and whether the LED returns after a reset.
- Check the water temperature at a tap to confirm the heater is off.
Do not
- Do not bypass the sensor or control to force the burner on.
- Do not replace the control before the manual's sensor checks are done.
How professional service helps
- A technician checks the temperature sensor circuit and connection, verifies resistance per the service manual, and replaces the sensor or gas control as directed.
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
Is a five-flash code a gas leak?
No. It is an internal fault report from the control. If you smell gas, that is a separate emergency: leave and call FortisBC at 1-800-663-9911 or 911.
Can I reset a five-flash code?
The manual allows resetting and observing, but the code returns until the sensor or control fault is fixed. Repeated resets do not repair the circuit.
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
- Defender Safety System Service Manual, ICON System V1 and V2 troubleshooting charts · 238-51542-00E · accessed September 7, 2026
- Installation and Operation Manual, LED status tables · 238-51012-00V · accessed September 7, 2026
Facts checked September 7, 2026. Last updated September 7, 2026. Technical reviewer: not yet assigned.