Rinnai Q-Series Error 18 — Maximum Flow Temperature Exceeded
Error 18
Maximum flow temperature exceeded. The flow water temperature exceeded 212°F; check the actual flow temperature and flow sensor resistance and replace defective parts, changing the control unit if the error persists. The table classifies it as Lockout.
Applies to
This low-water or pressure protection code is displayed by the Q-Series control (block and error display) on Q-Series models (Q85SN, Q130SN, Q175SN, Q205SN and the Q175CN combi, plus their propane SP/CP variants), as documented in Rinnai Q-Series High Efficiency Condensing Gas Boiler Installation & Servicing Instructions, doc 800000010 (hosted on the Rinnai Canada Q85SN product page), Section 16 Blocks and Errors (800000010). Codes can differ between controller generations, so always check the manual that matches your unit.
Controller: Q-Series control (block and error display). Source manual: 800000010.
Why a code is not a diagnosis
A water-pressure or low-water code can mean a genuine leak or empty system, a failed expansion tank, a faulty fill valve, or a sensor problem. The appliance does not distinguish these.
Safe things to observe
- Read the pressure gauge and compare it with the normal cold-system pressure your installer set.
- Look for drips or wet spots near the appliance, pipes and the relief-valve discharge.
Do not
- Do not keep re-pressurizing a system that keeps losing water.
- Do not cap a relief-valve discharge pipe.
How professional service helps
- A technician finds and repairs the leak, checks the expansion tank and fill assembly, and verifies the sensor circuit.
Where ROMA provides on-site service
On-site service is currently offered in Greater Vancouver, BC, including Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, New Westminster, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Delta, Langley, Maple Ridge, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, White Rock, Pitt Meadows, Tsawwassen, Anmore, Lions Bay, Belcarra, Bowen Island, Mission. Everything else on this site is reference information you can use anywhere in Canada.
Parts and service
Parts commonly involved
These parts appear in the documented text for this alert. A code reports a condition, not a failed part — a technician confirms the cause by testing before anything is replaced.
DHW flow sensor
On a combi boiler, the DHW flow sensor is the component that notices a hot-water tap has been opened and tells the boiler to switch from space…
What a technician checks →
Service for this alert
- Gas Boiler Repair
Licensed gas technicians from ROMA Heating & Cooling diagnose and repair residential and light-commercial gas boilers across…
- Emergency Boiler Repair
Priority gas boiler repair for homes and buildings in Greater Vancouver with no heat, no hot water, a locked-out boiler or a leak.
Every boiler part explained — what it does, how it fails and what a technician checks.
Documented for Rinnai Q-Series.
Frequently asked questions
Can I clear this code myself?
Clearing a code without fixing its cause usually just brings it back. Note the code, check the safe items on this page, then call a licensed technician. If your appliance manual describes a user reset for this exact code and it stays away, no call may be needed.
Boiler locked out? Call with the alert text ready.
The brand, model and this alert are passed along when you request service online, so the technician arrives prepared.
On-site service in Greater Vancouver, BC. ROMA lists “Open 7 days” on its site; call to confirm same-day availability.
Sources and verification
- Rinnai Q-Series High Efficiency Condensing Gas Boiler Installation & Servicing Instructions, doc 800000010 (hosted on the Rinnai Canada Q85SN product page), Section 16 Blocks and Errors · 800000010 · accessed September 9, 2026
Facts checked September 9, 2026. Last updated September 9, 2026. Technical reviewer: not yet assigned.