Noritz EZ98DV GQ-C2861WX-FF US – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-04-28 – A Noritz condensing tankless gas water heater caused significant residential water damage after a defective orange O-ring on the black bleeder valve failed, according to an incident report filed with the CPSC's SaferProducts.gov database. The reported hazard is categorized as a Water Damage Hazard, with no injuries reported.

Product Details

Brand Name: Noritz
Manufacturer: Noritz America
Model: EZ98DV GQ-C2861WX-FF US
Retailer: Cedar Valley Plumbing
Incident Report Number: 5990441
Severity Type Name: No First Aid or Medical Attention Received
Severity Type ID: 6

Incident Overview

The incident began on December 15, 2025, when a California licensed plumber installed a Noritz EZ98DV GQ-C2861WX-FF US tankless gas water heater at a residence. The day after installation, December 16, the consumer noticed water dripping from the black bleeder valve and a damp floor in the heater closet. The plumber advised hand-tightening the fitting and said he would visit the next day. The leak appeared to stop, and on February 27, 2026, a new exterior door was installed for the closet with no leaks observed at that time.

On March 27, 2026, while doing yard work, the consumer discovered water running from the black bleeder valve. The entire floor was soaked, three walls of the closet were wet, and the new door was warped. The plumber arrived within 30 minutes and identified a failed orange O-ring on the bleeder valve as the cause. The leak damaged the closet, door, kitchen walls and vintage knotty pine cabinets, and one side of the bathroom shower. The consumer contacted Noritz on April 1, 2026, and was assigned a case number. Despite multiple follow-ups, as of April 10, 2026, Noritz's insurer, MSIG USA, had not contacted the consumer. The consumer expressed concern about health risks from prolonged water exposure, especially for a 97-year-old resident. The full report is available at https://www.saferproducts.gov/PublicSearch/Detail?ReportId=5990441.

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: The failure of the orange O-ring on the bleeder valve can cause a sudden, continuous water leak, leading to extensive flooding within minutes. This can damage flooring, walls, and personal property, and create slip hazards.

Long-Term Risks: Prolonged moisture behind walls and under cabinets promotes mold growth, which can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and other health problems. The consumer reported that the walls and cabinets were soaked, as confirmed by water remediation meter readings on March 31, 2026, posing a particular risk to the 97-year-old resident.

Property Damage Potential: Water from the defective O-ring can saturate drywall, wood framing, insulation, and irreplaceable features like vintage tile and knotty pine cabinets. In this case, the leak damaged the water heater closet, door, kitchen walls, cabinets, and bathroom shower, requiring extensive remediation and replacement.

Warning Signs: A slow drip from the bleeder valve, as observed the day after installation, may indicate an impending O-ring failure. Consumers should inspect the orange O-ring on the black bleeder valve for any signs of wear, cracking, or leakage, and address any moisture promptly.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using Immediately: If you notice any water leakage from the bleeder valve or surrounding areas, shut off the water supply to the water heater and turn off the unit to prevent further damage.

Inspect the O-Ring: Owners of the Noritz EZ98DV GQ-C2861WX-FF US should examine the orange O-ring on the black bleeder valve for signs of failure, such as cracks, deformation, or leaks. If any issues are found, contact a licensed plumber or the manufacturer.

Preserve the Product: Keep the defective O-ring and any other failed components in a safe place. Do not discard or repair them, as they may be critical evidence for a potential claim or investigation.

Document the Incident: Take photographs and videos of the leak, water damage, and affected areas. Keep records of all communications with the plumber, manufacturer, and insurance company, including dates, names, and case numbers.

Contact the Manufacturer: Report the issue to Noritz America and obtain a case number. Follow up in writing and request timely action, especially if property damage or health risks are involved.

Report to the CPSC: File a report with the CPSC at SaferProducts.gov to help alert other consumers and contribute to product safety monitoring.

Consumers who have experienced property damage or health issues due to this defect may wish to consult with a product liability attorney to explore their legal options.

Manufacturer's Response

Noritz America was contacted on April 1, 2026, and assigned a case number. On April 7, 2026, Noritz informed the consumer that the case and claim had been shared with its insurer, MSIG USA. As of April 10, 2026, the consumer had not been contacted by the insurer. Noritz's official response to this specific incident report is not publicly available at the time of this writing.

Legal Help Available

H Law Group is a California product liability law firm representing individuals harmed by defective products. The firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs, and offers free consultations to discuss your case. If you or a loved one was injured by Noritz EZ98DV GQ-C2861WX-FF US or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.