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Bosch Error Code C3: Flow sensor sees no recirculation (Tankless)

Updated · by Aurora Star Tech Inc.

Bosch error code C3 on a tankless water heater means: Flow sensor sees no recirculation. It is also called Bosch diagnostic code C3.

Low severityTankless Water HeaterBosch Greentherm T9800 SE · Bosch Greentherm T9900 SE

Homeowner? What Bosch code C3 means for you

Usually minor Your tankless water heater is reporting: Flow sensor sees no recirculation. This code is usually informational or minor. The safe checks below often clear it; call us if it keeps showing up.

Safe things you can check yourself

  • Check that gas reaches the house: other gas appliances work, or the propane tank is not empty.
  • Make sure the heater is plugged in and its breaker is on. In winter, keep the power on: it protects the unit from freezing.
  • Outside, make sure the intake and exhaust pipes or vent cap are not blocked by snow, ice, leaves or a nest.
  • Check that the hot and cold water valves under the heater are fully open.
  • If you have a remote controller, turn it off and on once. If the code comes back, call a technician.

Call (647) 657-2977Book a service call

Licensed technicians serving Vaughan, Toronto and the GTA.

What does Bosch error code C3 mean?

The flow sensor does not detect water moving in the recirculation loop.

Applies to: Bosch Greentherm T9800 SE 160/199 and T9900 SE 160/199 / i 199 tankless water heaters

Common causes of Bosch code C3

  • Recirculation pump fault or wiring
  • Blocked recirculation circuit
Safety: Gas, electrical and refrigerant work must be done by a licensed technician. Turn off power and gas before servicing, never bypass a safety control, and always follow the manufacturer's manual for your exact model.

Bosch models that use code C3

Greentherm T9800 SE 160Greentherm T9800 SE 199Greentherm T9800 SEC 199Greentherm T9900 i 199Greentherm T9900 SE 160Greentherm T9900 SE 199

Other Bosch Tankless codes

CodeMeaning
AAFlue gas temperature too high, power limited
ADPower derate warning
BBFan calibration after missed ignitions
BCRepeated fan calibration with similar values
C1Flue blockage at start-up
C2Flue blockage at start-up
C5Bypass water valve fault
C7Fan fault
C8Main water valve fault
C9Barometric pressure sensor damaged
CAWater flow above 9.2 gpm
CEFlue blockage during operation (siphon pressure)

All Bosch Tankless Water Heater error codes →

Bosch code C3: homeowner questions

What does Bosch code C3 mean?

Flow sensor sees no recirculation. The flow sensor does not detect water moving in the recirculation loop.

Is it safe to keep using my tankless water heater with code C3?

Usually yes. Code C3 is normally minor, but if it keeps coming back have it checked.

Can I reset Bosch code C3 myself?

You can try one reset (power off for 30 seconds, then on). If Bosch code C3 comes back, the cause is still there and a licensed technician should check it.

Who can fix Bosch code C3 near me?

Aurora Star Tech Inc. repairs Bosch tankless water heaters in Vaughan, Toronto and across the GTA. Call (647) 657-2977 or book a service call online.

Homeowner help: Tankless Water Heater No Hot Water: What to Check

Troubleshooting guides

Source: Bosch Greentherm T9800 SE 160/199 installation 6720816815 (06.2023), Table 24 Error code diagnostics, p.65-69; Bosch Greentherm T9900 SE 160/199 | i 199 installation 6 720 813 635 (2024-06), section 9.1 Error code diagnostics, p.68-73. Written in our own words as a summary; always check the original manual.

General guidance for qualified technicians. The manufacturer's installation and service manual and local codes always take priority. Aurora Star Tech is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by any equipment manufacturer; brand and model names are used only to identify equipment and belong to their owners.

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