troubleshooting a brivis ducted heater ready for inspection and repair.

Air conditioning and heating are pivotal aspects of keeping comfortable during the harsher seasons.

Moreover, it’s important to know that even the best ducted heating brands like Brivis heating are prone to dysfunction, faults, and issues.

Not every problem is created equal, as some are due to an underlying issue that requires a VBA-certified technician to fix, while others can be restored through troubleshooting by the homeowner.

So if you haven’t turned the heater off and on yet, this is your sign.

Thomas Air Conditioning takes a practical approach to Brivis ducted heating issues, that’s why we created this definitive guide.

In this Brivis troubleshooting guide, you’ll learn when a DIY solution is suitable and when it’s best to call in the experts for a specialised assessment and fix.

If your heating system has seen better days, and you’re looking for a new system, check out our ducted heating replacement cost guide.

Key Takeaways

  • Many issues with your gas heater can be troubleshooted yourself.
  • Licenced technicians should handle all issues related to electricals, ductwork, and major components.
  • Only consider replacing a Brivis heater after 20 years or multiple costly repairs.
  • If you suspect a gas leak or carbon monoxide, switch it off, and contact a professional.

Common Brivis Ducted Heating Problems and How to Fix Them

Brivis Heater Not Turning On

If your Brivis heater is not turning on at all it can mean a few things.

The most likely causes are:

  • Blocked filter
  • Tripped circuit breaker
  • Wall controller is not set correctly
  • Wall controller off/dead
  • Error code lockout

Solutions:

  • Brivis ducted heating temperature must be higher than the room temperature for operation.
  • Clean the filters and see if that fixes the issue.
  • Check whether the circuit breaker has been tripped, if it has, restart it.
  • Ensure the gas supply is turned on at the heater and gas meter.

If none of these work, reset your ducted heater using these instructions.

If normal function doesn’t resume after all these steps you should call a qualified technician to investigate this issue.

Brivis Heater Blowing Cold Air

Sometimes a heater blowing cold air is a simple issue to resolve, other times it requires expert intervention.

If your heater is in cooling mode (heaters with add-on cooling) then this will explain why you’re feeling cold air so ensure you see this icon on your wall controller.

Brivis Snowman Symbol
Brivis Snowman Symbol Indicating The System Is In Cooling Mode

 

If you have incorrect Brivis wall controller settings then this is the easiest to fix and you won’t need a licenced heating technician.

Make sure your control says “on” and make sure it’s set to a temperature higher than room temperature.

Dirty filters left alone without cleaning will cause dust, dirt, and debris to manifest inside your heating system preventing the air from warming correctly, resulting in subpar cold air.

Regularly clean out the filters, preferably every couple of months to ensure no buildup occurs.

After that, your heating should resume.

No Air From Some Vents

If some vents around your home are working properly but others aren’t, ensure that you’ve set the zoning correctly for the target area.

If you’ve tried this then it could be a more fundamental issue such as poorly installed or damaged ductwork.

If some ductwork is not attached correctly or it’s broken then air will leak out leading to some vents not receiving any air at all.

We don’t recommend trying to reinstall or re-attach any ductwork yourself as this requires professional experience with ducted heating systems.

If you have exhausted all other methods, then call certified specialists to fix your ductwork.

Heater Tripping the Safety Switch

If your Brivis heater is tripping the circuit breaker or safety switch this could mean your system is overheating due to blocked airflow or faulty wiring.

In the case of blocked airflow, if your system has a large amount of dust, debris, and other nasties in the system it can overheat due to an overconsumption of power.

Ensure that you build a routine of cleaning out the filters regularly to prevent this.

Faulty wiring can cause the safety switch to trip, so turn on the safety switch, if it turns back off then you know that you could have faulty and/or damaged wiring that needs repair.

In rare cases it is simply a faulty safety switch, however, we recommend calling professionals for anything electrical.

Brivis Heater Making Strange Noises

The most typical causes for hearing noises in your Brivis system are loose parts/panels, debris in the system, or a faulty blower motor.

For loose parts/panels, if you can isolate exactly where it’s coming from you might be able to fix this by screwing in the panels tightly.

If you’re hearing a whistling noise check the return air grille and filter and remove any debris and dust that you find.

For a more serious issue like a faulty blower, you’ll need the services of a professional technician to fix it.

Burning Smell or Smoke From Vents

Don’t risk it, if you smell gas or burning, switch off your system as soon as possible.

This could indicate a dangerous fault with your system, especially if you haven’t serviced it in a few years.

Call a team of licenced technicians to professionally handle the situation.

Fan is not turning off

If your ducted heating fan is continuously on then it could mean that you’ve set the wrong controlled settings, your ducting could have any issue, or your return air grille and filter are blocked.

Restricted airflow from a blocked return air grille and filters can prevent the heating cycle from completing which means the fan will stay on to help regulate the temperature.

Blockages in the filters and return air grille can cause a multitude of issues, so be on top of it every couple of months by cleaning them out.

If you’ve set the wrong fan setting on your controller, then your fan will continue to run.

Make sure that “Fan Only” is not set to the on position.

If your ductwork is crushed or collapsed this will force the fan to stay on, in this case, leave ductwork up to licenced professionals.

Brivis Error Codes and What They Mean

Error Code What It Means What You Can Do
40–43 Overheat condition Ensure that all the outlets are open, registers aren’t blocked, and filters are clean. The main cause if often restricted airflow.
46, 47, 55 Ignition failure Check that the gas supply is on at both the heater and the meter. If the issue continues, contact a licenced heating technician.
50 System lock after four failed ignition attempts Try resetting the system. If the error returns, check your gas supply or book a professional service.
53 Multiple overheating lockouts Usually caused by airflow problems. Clean filters, open vents, and reset. If it returns, book a technician.
56 Pressure switch lockout Most likely a flue pipe or condensate drain (SP6 models) blockage. Call a licenced technician to inspect it safely.

If you see any of these codes, reset your unit first. If it returns, book a Brivis-certified repair.

How to Reset Your Brivis Ducted Heating System

When your Brivis heater issues an error, it’s not always a sign to panic. Most times all you need is a good old fashion reset, especially if you’re using one of the more common controllers like the NC-2, NC-3, or NC-6.

Here’s how to do it properly, without pressing random buttons and hoping for the best.
Brivis Nc-6 wall Controller

Resetting an NC-3 or NC-6 Controller

  1. Look for an Error Message
     At the top of the screen is where the error will scroll. You’ll probably see the word RESET pop up next to Button 4. Good start.
  2. Write Down the Code
     Yep, actually write it down. Don’t trust your memory. If things go pear-shaped and you need to call someone, this code saves time.
  3. Can’t See Any Error?
     Press the FN button. Then hit Button 1. Sometimes the controller hides the code and makes you work for it.
  4. Press Reset (Button 4)
     Go ahead and press Button 4, the one next to where it says “RESET.” The screen will go blank for a few seconds. That’s normal.
  5. Wait
     Don’t rush it. Give the controller a moment to settle. Eventually, it’ll flash “System Off.” That’s your green light.
  6. Switch It Back On
     Hit ON, adjust the settings, and you’re back in business. Hopefully with warm air blowing instead of dead silence.

Brivis Nc-2 Wall Controller

Resetting an NC-2 Controller

  1. Same Drill, Look for the Error
     Top of the screen again. You’ll see the code and the “RESET” prompt next to Button 4.
  2. Note the Error Code
     Save yourself the headache. Write it down before you reset. Trust me on this.
  3. Press the Reset Button
     That’s Button 4 again. Give it a quick press. The screen might blink or go blank.
  4. Reboot the System
     Once you see “System Off,” you’re good to go. Press ON and cross your fingers.

Still Not Working?

If the same error keeps popping up, like code 50, 55, or anything that sounds like tech gibberish, it’s probably not a one-button fix. Might be:

  • A blocked flue
  • Gas supply issue
  • Ignition failure
  • Or something worse you don’t want to mess with

Don’t force it. Just call in a licenced Brivis tech. We’ve dealt with this hundreds of times. Safer, faster, no guesswork.

Should You Try Fixing Your Brivis Heater Yourself?

Safe DIY Fixes (You Can Check These Yourself)

Not every Brivis heating issue needs a technician, but not everything should be DIY either. Here’s how to tell the difference.

1. Heater Not Turning On

  • Make sure the wall controller is set to “heat” and not “off”
  • Set the temperature higher than the current room temperature
  • Make sure the gas supply is turned on at the heater and gas meter
  • Check the circuit breaker, if it’s tripped, switch it back on
  • Clean or replace return air filters
  • Try a system reset (see reset instructions above)

2. Blowing Cold Air

  • Make sure the controller isn’t in cooling mode (common with add-on systems)
  • Check the controller is set to “heat”
  • Clean the filters to remove airflow blockages

3. No Air From Some Vents

  • Check your zoning settings to make sure the vents are enabled
  • If it’s zone-related, adjusting settings should fix the issue

4. Fan Won’t Turn Off

  • Check if “Fan Only” mode is turned on at the controller
  • Clean return air filters and grille to improve airflow

When to Call a Professional (Don’t DIY These)

These issues involve gas, electricity, or system components that can be dangerous without proper tools and qualifications. Do not attempt these yourself.

1. Tripping the Safety Switch or Circuit Breaker

  • If the heater keeps tripping the switch, it could be due to overheating, faulty wiring, or internal faults
  • This needs licenced electrical or gas repair, don’t keep switching it back on

2. No Air From Some Vents (After Zoning Check)

  • If zoning seems fine but the vents still aren’t working, the issue is likely damaged or disconnected ductwork
  • Reattaching or repairing ducts is not a DIY task

3. Fan Runs Continuously (After Settings Checked)

  • Could be collapsed ductwork or pressure issues
  • Needs internal inspection from a ducted heating technician

4. Strange Noises

  • Loose parts can sometimes be tightened if obvious
  • But noises like grinding, buzzing, or banging often point to failing motors or internal parts

5. Burning Smell or Smoke

  • Shut your system off immediately
  • This could mean a serious fault, gas issue, or electrical short
  • Book a technician without delay

If you’re unsure, start with the safe checks above. But the moment things seem off, especially if there’s smell, smoke, or electrical behaviour, it’s not worth guessing.

Book a licenced Brivis technician to inspect and fix the issue properly. Safer, cleaner, and no second-guessing.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Brivis Heating System?

Brivis ducted heating systems are known for their durability and can easily last 20+ years.

Furthermore, we wouldn’t recommend replacing your ducted heating unless you have clear signs.

Some key factors that signal it’s time for a replacement:

  • Over 20 years old – only if it’s showing other signs
  • Frequent repairs
  • High repair costs
  • Outdated models and units (Older Brivis models)
  • No available parts to repair the system

Check out this simple-to-follow diagram that shows whether you’re due for a repair or a replacement.

brivis ducted heating repair or replace diagram

 

If you’d like to learn more about ducted heating replacement, read our complete guide to Brivis heater replacement.

Brivis Controller Not Working? Try These Fixes

Oftentimes the Brivis wall controller including the Nc-3, Nc-6, and Nc-2 can play.

Brivisi Nc-6 Wall Controller

Common issues include a blank screen, buttons not working, and error display issues.

I’ll show you exactly how to troubleshoot a wall controller that’s not working.

To troubleshoot a blank screen there are 2 things you can do:

  • Check the power supply to the heating unit is correctly connected and switched on.
  • Ensure the thermostat cable is connected.

If buttons are not responding ensure that the padlock symbol is not present.

This means that childproof lock has been activated.

If there is an issue with error codes or the display not showing correctly, refer to our section on how to reset the Brivis wall controller, and this should resolve the issue.

If you have tried everything and you’re still experiencing issues with the controller, contact our team for professional help.

Download Brivis Ducted Heating Manuals

Brivis Ducted Heater Operation Manual

Brivis Ducted Gas Heating and DualComfort Brochure

Brivis Heating Troubleshooting FAQs

Why is my Brivis heater not turning on?

There are many potential causes including blocked filters, a tripped circuit breaker, incorrect controller settings, or an active error code. If you see an error code, refer to the table above for specific actions you can take to fix it.

How do I reset a Brivis controller?

If you have an NC-3 or NC-6 controller, the reset steps are the same — follow the guide above. NC-2 controllers have slightly different instructions, which are also explained earlier in this article.

What does Brivis error code 55 mean?

Error code 55 means your Brivis heater failed to ignite within the specified timeframe. It’s a common ignition fault that may require a licensed technician if it persists after a reset.

When should I replace my Brivis ducted heater?

If your Brivis ducted heater is over 20 years old or constantly needs expensive repairs, it's a good time to consider a replacement. Modern systems are more efficient and safer to run.

Do Brivis heaters need regular servicing?

Yes. Brivis heating systems can develop faults or gas leaks if left unserviced. For safety and performance, book a full ducted heater service every 1–2 years.

Need Help With Your Brivis Ducted Heating?

Still need help with your Brivis ducted heating system? Our team of local VBA-certified technicians can help repair or replace your StarPro, Buffalo, Wombat, or Compact Classic model.

Serving Melbourne proudly for over 100 years, our teams have worked on 1000’s of Brivis ducted heating systems.

Our approach to ducted heating installation is cost-effective and tailored to your home, budget, and needs, without sacrificing on quality.

Call Thomas Air Conditioning today for an assessment of your Brivis ducted heating system.