Girard Water Heater: “E1”

warning RV water heater fault codes

Safety Propane safety: if you smell gas, stop, shut off the tank, and ventilate before retrying. Do not make repeated ignition attempts in quick succession, and never modify the igniter gap or gas pressure yourself beyond visual checks.

What it means

Ignition failure. The igniter sparked but the board never confirmed a flame, so after its trial-for-ignition and purge cycles the heater locks out instead of continuing to spark.

Most likely causes

No or low propane (empty/near-empty tank, closed valve, regulator issue) most likely
Air in the gas line after running out of propane or after service most likely
Dirty igniter/burner, or wrong gap between igniter and burner common
Faulty igniter or loose igniter wiring connection less common
Low gas inlet pressure less common

Safe checks you can do yourself

Confirm the propane tank is not empty and the gas valve is fully open.
Light a stovetop burner or another propane appliance first to purge air from the lines after a refill.
Check that other propane appliances ignite normally (rules out a system-wide gas/regulator problem).
Make sure the exhaust/intake on the exterior side of the heater is clear of obstructions and insect nests.

How to reset / clear E1

Turn the heater off at the wall control panel.
Wait about 10 seconds, then turn it back on to clear the lockout.
Run hot water to trigger a fresh ignition attempt.

When to call a technician

If gas is present and lines are purged but you still get E1, or if you suspect low gas pressure or a failed igniter, have an RV tech check gas pressure, the igniter, and the burner.

Applies to

GSWH-2 · 2GWHAM

FAQ

What does Girard Water Heater code "E1" mean?

Ignition failure. The igniter sparked but the board never confirmed a flame, so after its trial-for-ignition and purge cycles the heater locks out instead of continuing to spark.

How do I reset Girard Water Heater E1?

Turn the heater off at the wall control panel. Wait about 10 seconds, then turn it back on to clear the lockout. Run hot water to trigger a fresh ignition attempt.

What is the most common cause of E1 on a Girard Water Heater?

The most likely cause is no or low propane (empty/near-empty tank, closed valve, regulator issue).

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Sources

Girard GSWH-2 Technical / Service Manual (Model GSWH-2) — GSWH-2 Service Manual, fault code E1 Ignition failure (trial for ignition / purge sequence) (Girard Products (hosted by RV Upgrade Store))
Girard GSWH-2 Tankless Water Heater Technical Manual and Troubleshooting Guide — Fault code list, E1 Ignition failure causes (Manuals.plus)

Note: By far the most common real-world cause reported by owners is an empty propane tank or air in the lines after a refill — check gas supply before assuming a hardware fault.

● Last verified 2026-06-29 · compiled from manufacturer documentation. Codes can vary by model year — always cross-check your unit’s manual.