Common Boiler Fault Codes Explained

What is your boiler trying to tell you?

Modern boilers display an error or fault code when they detect a problem. The code flags which area or component has triggered a safety lockout or warning. Some codes clear with a single reset and do not return. If a code keeps coming back, there is an underlying fault that needs diagnosing by an engineer.

This page covers the most common fault codes for the makes we see regularly across Burnley and East Lancashire. Call us on 07939 236001 if you are not sure what yours means.

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common fault codes

Baxi

The boiler has attempted to light and failed. Possible causes include a temporary drop in gas pressure, a faulty spark electrode, or a problem with the gas valve. One reset is worth trying.

If the code returns quickly, it needs diagnosing.

The boiler’s internal temperature has exceeded safe limits. Can be caused by low system pressure, a failing pump, a heat exchanger blockage, or a faulty thermistor. Do not keep resetting this code.

The boiler detected a flame but lost it shortly after lighting. Often caused by gas supply intermittency, a faulty flame sensor, or a combustion issue.

The boiler has timed out trying to respond to a heat demand. Usually a communication fault or PCB issue.

Worcester Bosch (Greenstar)

System pressure has dropped below 1 bar. Check the gauge and repressurise via the fillingloop. If it keeps dropping, there is likely a leak.

Same as EA 338. One of the most common faults and sometimes resolvable without an engineer. If it drops repeatedly, call us.

Ideal Logic

The boiler has detected an issue it cannot self-identify. Needs diagnostic equipment. Do not keep resetting.

Failing to establish or maintain a flame. Same likely causes as Baxi E1.

Fan not reaching correct speed before ignition. Fan failure or PCB fault. Needs engineer diagnosis.

Vokera

Same principle as Baxi E1 and Ideal L2. One reset worth trying. If it returns, book a call-out.

Vaillant

System pressure too low. Repressurise via the filling loop. If it keeps dropping, there is a leak.

Boiler attempted to light and failed. Gas supply or ignition components.

Flame went out during a cycle. Combustion quality, gas supply, or flame sensor.

Other Common Faults

Do not continue using the boiler with a suspected flue fault. Carbon monoxide can back-draft into the property. Call an engineer.

Flame failure across several brands. One reset worth trying. If it returns, book a call-out.

The boiler locked out after failing to light, typically after three attempts. A reset will sometimes clear a one-off lockout. If it does not, or keeps coming back, it needs diagnosing.

Contact

Not sure what your boiler fault code means?

If your boiler is showing a fault code, keeps locking out, or the same error keeps coming back after a reset, it’s time to get it checked properly. David can diagnose the issue, explain what’s causing the fault, and advise on the safest, most cost-effective repair.

Don’t keep resetting a boiler that is repeatedly showing an error. Book a local Gas Safe engineer and get the problem sorted safely.

Book your boiler fault diagnosis today