State / American · Water heater
Status light patterns Ignition, limit, or sensor fault (tank)
What this code means
State and American share manufacturing with A.O. Smith and use similar Honeywell/Resideo gas valve LED codes.
Most likely causes
- Ignition failure from a fouled sensor rod
- High-limit switch tripped
- Gas supply issue
What to try first
Check your unit's data label for the exact flash-pattern legend, since it's printed directly on the tank.
Safety note: if this code returns after one clean reset, stop resetting it — repeated lockouts usually mean a real fault that needs a licensed technician. Never bypass a safety switch.
FAQ
What does State / American error code Status light patterns mean?
Ignition, limit, or sensor fault (tank). State and American share manufacturing with A.O. Smith and use similar Honeywell/Resideo gas valve LED codes.
Can I fix State / American code Status light patterns myself?
Usually not. Check your unit's data label for the exact flash-pattern legend, since it's printed directly on the tank. If the code returns after one reset, it needs a licensed technician.
What causes State / American code Status light patterns?
The most common causes are: ignition failure from a fouled sensor rod; high-limit switch tripped; gas supply issue.
Other water heater brands: Rheem · Ruud · Rinnai · Navien · Noritz · Takagi · A.O. Smith · Bradford White · Generic electric · Generic tankless
This information may contain errors or not apply to your exact model — always double-check it against your appliance's own manual before acting. If there's any chance of a gas, fire, electrical, carbon monoxide, or other safety hazard, stop and call a licensed professional or the appropriate agency (e.g. your gas utility) instead of relying on this page alone.