Combustion fan fault
Displayed as: 61
Rinnai's RU series installation and operation manual lists diagnostic code 61 as "Combustion Fan". The manual's checks are: check the motor wire harness for loose or damaged connections, measure the resistance of the motor wire harness, and ensure the combustion fan spins freely.
If a carbon-monoxide alarm sounds
- Leave the building immediately and get fresh air.
- Call 911. Do not go back inside until emergency services say it is safe.
- Have every fuel-burning appliance and its venting inspected before use.
Official guidance: Health Canada on carbon monoxide.
Applies to
This code and wording come from manual 100000467 for the RU series. The cross-series document 100000652 applies the same code across SENSEI and non-SENSEI generations.
- 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 cannot confirm the combustion fan is running correctly. The manual's checks separate wiring (loose or damaged connections, harness resistance) from the motor itself (fan wheel spins freely), and the code does not say which side failed until those checks are done.
Same code, other equipment
- Rinnai non-SENSEI series: Same code family per troubleshooting document 100000652. Source
Safe things to observe
- Listen for the fan during a firing attempt and note whether it turns at all.
- Check the vent termination for blockage, which can load the fan abnormally.
Do not
- Do not force the fan wheel or attempt to spin it by hand while powered.
- Do not run the unit with a fan that fails to start; combustion depends on it.
How professional service helps
- A technician checks the motor harness connections and resistance per the manual, verifies the fan wheel spins freely, and replaces the fan motor or harness as the checks direct.
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
Can debris stop the combustion fan?
Yes, and the manual's checks include ensuring the fan spins freely. Debris in the fan housing is also one of the causes listed under code 10.
Is the combustion fan the same as a vent blower on a tank?
It serves the same purpose, proving and moving combustion airflow, but it is a sealed variable-speed fan integral to the tankless unit rather than a separate power-vent blower.
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.