Bradford White 265-42973-00 Damper Assembly

The Bradford White 265-42973-00 is an OEM 6-inch flue damper assembly designed specifically for precision draft control in high-efficiency commercial and residential water heaters. This assembly includes the wiring harness and essential internal actuators required to interface directly with the integrated control system. Engineered for atmospheric vent water heaters, the damper prevents standby heat loss by closing the flue during off-cycles, maintaining tank temperature and reducing energy consumption. As a direct replacement part, the 265-42973-00 damper ensures the burner circuit only energizes once the valve has reached a fully open position, preventing hazardous backdrafting. Correct installation of this power vent accessory is critical for maintaining the safety sequence of operation and combustion efficiency. For technicians troubleshooting ignition failures, frequent "damper blocked" codes often indicate mechanical resistance or harness oxidation within this specific assembly.

Key Benefits

• Genuine OEM Bradford White replacement part ensures exact fitment and factory-spec seal.
• Maximizes thermal efficiency by restricting airflow through the flue when the burner is idle.
• Includes the plug-and-play wiring harness for streamlined integration with the existing control board.
• Robust construction designed to withstand high-temperature flue gases without mechanical binding.
• Maintains the structural integrity of the venting system for reliable combustion cycles.

Common Questions

How do I troubleshoot a 265-42973-00 that won't open?
Verify 24V signal from the control board to the actuator. Check for obstructions within the 6-inch collar and ensure the harness pins are not recessed or corroded.

Is the wiring harness included with this assembly?
Yes, this specific part number includes the factory harness required to connect the damper motor to the central controller.

Can I manually bypass the damper if the motor fails?
No. The safety circuit prevents the burner from firing unless the end switch confirms the damper is fully open to exhaust combustion gases.

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Disclaimer: While we strive for 100% accuracy, product data and specifications are subject to change. Please contact our team to confirm compatibility or technical details before purchasing.