Most Richmond problems map to standard tank/tankless symptoms. Same diagnostic procedures as Rheem and Ruud equivalents.
No hot water — gas tanks
- Check LED status indicator on gas valve
- Standing pilot: relight per unit instructions
- If won\'t stay lit: replace thermocouple
- Electronic ignition: check 120V power, then gas valve
No hot water — electric tanks
(1) Check breaker; (2) press ECO red button on upper thermostat; (3) test upper element; (4) test upper thermostat.
Hot water runs out fast
Most common cause: broken dip tube. $5-15 part, 30-min DIY.
Encore Hybrid issues
- Mode setting (should be Hybrid)
- Breaker (30A double-pole)
- Air filter (vacuum monthly)
- Condensate drain (must be free-flowing)
- Compressor lockout: breaker off 30 min
Encore Tankless issues
Check digital controller for error code:
- Code 11 — ignition failure
- Code 12 — flame failure mid-draw
- Code 14 — overheat (scale)
- Code 79 — combustion fan
- Code 99 — exhaust restriction
Water heater leaking
Top fittings: tighten. T&P drips: thermal expansion (install expansion tank). Bottom: shell failure — replace.
Popping noise
Sediment. Flush tank.
Rotten egg smell
Switch to aluminum-zinc anode + shock-chlorinate.
Bottom line
Diagnostics match Rheem and Ruud equivalents. Same gas valve LED for tank, same numeric codes for tankless.