Noritz Water Heater Priority Light Flashing: What It Means and How to Fix It
Quick Answer
The Priority light on Noritz remote controllers (RC-7651M and similar) serves different purposes depending on the model. In multi-unit installations, the Priority designation indicates which unit responds first to a hot water demand. A steadily lit Priority light during operation is normal in this context.
The Priority light on Noritz remote controllers (RC-7651M and similar) serves different purposes depending on the model. In multi-unit installations, the Priority designation indicates which unit responds first to a hot water demand. A steadily lit Priority light during operation is normal in this context. A flashing Priority light, however, typically signals a scheduled service reminder, an active error code that should be checked on the display, or a wiring issue between the controller and the unit. Before assuming a fault, check whether your installation is single-unit or multi-unit and consult the controller's indicator legend in the owner manual.
Not seeing PRIORITY-LIGHT on your display?
Select what your appliance is actually doing and we'll take you to the right guide.
What Does the PRIORITY-LIGHT Code Mean?
Priority light behavior depends on model and installation type. Steady on during operation is normal in multi-unit setups. Flashing usually signals a service reminder or active error code.
Most Likely Causes
Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:
Symptoms You May Notice
- Priority light flashing on remote controller
- Priority light on steady with no hot water issue
- Priority light flashing alongside an error code
- Priority light active after a year of use
Can you reset a Noritz waterheater to clear the PRIORITY-LIGHT code?
To clear a service reminder indicated by the Priority light, schedule and complete the annual service. After service, the technician can reset the service interval counter using the controller's service menu. A soft reset (power off 30 seconds, power on) will not clear a service reminder on most Noritz models.
Tools Required for Diagnosis
Diagnostic Checklist
Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.
Check the main digital display on the controller
Check the main digital display on the controller. Is there a numeric error code shown alongside the Priority light? If yes, address the error code as the primary fault using the specific code guide.
Check your installation type
Consult the service history
After confirming service or ruling out a fault
Inspect the wiring connection between the controller and the unit
Replacement Parts
If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.
| Part Name | OEM Number | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|
| Remote Controller (RC-7651M)RC-7651M · $40–$90 | RC-7651M | $40 – $90 |
Repair vs. Replace Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Priority light mean on a Noritz water heater?
How do I turn off the Priority light on my Noritz?
Can the Priority light flash without any fault?
My Noritz Priority light came on exactly one year after installation. Is that a service reminder?
Can I change which unit is Priority in a multi-unit Noritz setup?
Related Noritz Waterheater Error Codes
Models Known to Experience PRIORITY-LIGHT Errors
This repair applies to most Noritz waterheaters with this error code. Common model numbers include:
NRCP199-DV, NRCP111-DV, NR98-DV, NR66-DV, NR711
Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026