Rheem R802VA07542117MSA Error Code A226_F: Internal Fault: Gas Vlv 1 Rly Stuck Open
What Does Code A226_F Mean?
Fault code A226_F on the Rheem R802VA indicates that the relay on the IFC board controlling gas valve 1 is stuck in the open position. Unlike A225_F where the relay is welded shut (keeping the valve on), A226_F describes the opposite failure: the relay contacts have failed open and cannot close, so the IFC cannot send power to the gas valve to open it.
With the gas valve relay stuck open, the gas valve receives no electrical signal and remains mechanically closed. The burners cannot light because no gas can flow. The furnace will attempt the ignition sequence (the igniter will glow, the inducer will run) but the gas valve will never open, resulting in repeated ignition failures before lockout.
While this fault does not present the immediate gas flow safety hazard of A225_F, it does render the furnace completely unable to provide heat. The stuck-open relay is an internal component failure within the IFC board and cannot be repaired in the field — the control board must be replaced. After replacement, the new board requires Bluetooth programming with the correct model data.
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Gas valve relay failure on control board | Most common | ✗ Call a pro → |
| Control board component failure | Common | ✗ Call a pro → |
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed HVAC technician if:
- Call a technician — the IFC control board has a failed relay and must be replaced
- A technician should confirm the relay failure diagnosis before ordering a replacement board, as the symptoms can resemble a faulty gas valve
- After board replacement, the technician must complete the Bluetooth programming and verify the gas valve opens and closes correctly during a test cycle
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026