Rheem R802VA07542117MSA Error Code A228_F: Internal Fault: Gas Vlv 2 Rly Stuck Open
What Does Code A228_F Mean?
Fault code A228_F on the Rheem R802VA is the two-stage-only counterpart to A226_F. It indicates that the relay controlling gas valve 2 (the high-stage gas valve) on the IFC board is stuck in the open position and cannot close. This means the IFC cannot energize the high-stage gas valve, so the furnace is unable to fire at high capacity.
In a two-stage R802VA, the low-stage gas valve (controlled by a separate relay) may still function normally, meaning the furnace can potentially provide low-stage heat. However, high-stage heating is unavailable, and in cold weather when the home requires full heating capacity, the furnace will be unable to keep up with the heat load.
Unlike A227_F where the welded relay poses an immediate gas flow safety hazard, a stuck-open relay for the high-stage valve is not an immediate safety concern since no gas flows uncontrollably. However, the IFC board has a hardware failure and must be replaced. After replacement and Bluetooth reprogramming, both gas valve relays should be verified during a test cycle.
Common Causes
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Gas valve 2 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 board has a failed high-stage gas valve relay and needs replacement
- The furnace may still provide low-stage heat, but high-capacity heating is unavailable until the board is replaced
- After board replacement, a technician must verify both the low-stage and high-stage gas valve relays operate correctly through a full heating cycle
✓ Verified against manufacturer service manual — March 2026