What Do Boiler Fault Codes Mean?
Boiler Breakdowns and Fault Codes
Boiler breakdowns always seem to happen at the worst possible time, especially during colder months. You wake up to no hot water or heating, and your boiler is flashing a mysterious error message you’ve never seen before. These are known as boiler fault codes or boiler error codes, and understanding them can be the key to getting your system back up and running faster.
At Assett Plumbing, we know that dealing with a faulty boiler can be stressful, and that these issues can usually be avoided by regular maintenance and boiler servicing.
However, if you do already have an issue, let's review what boiler error codes mean, what the most common faults are and what you should do next.
What Is A Boiler Error Code?
Most modern household and commercial boilers contain diagnostic circuitry to both control and monitor the operation of the unit. When your boiler detects a problem, whether mechanical, electrical, or related to water or gas flow, it will usually display a code made up of numbers and/or letters.
These codes help both homeowners and plumbers quickly identify the issue, without necessarily needing to dismantle the boiler. However, interpreting the codes correctly depends on the make and model of your system.
Different boiler manufacturers have their own unique coding systems. For example:
- A Baxi error code like E133 signals a gas supply fault.
- An Ideal error code like F1, typically indicates low pressure.
Understanding the meaning of your specific code is the first step toward resolving the issue. If you're unsure, consult your boiler manual, check the manufacturer’s website or call a qualified local plumber.
Why Do Boiler Fault Codes Appear?
Boiler fault codes appear when something is disrupting the boiler’s safe and efficient operation. Some faults are minor and can be fixed at home, but others may require a Gas Safe registered engineer like Assett Plumbing to repair or replace the boiler.
These are some common causes of faults that can be shown as a code on your boiler:
- Low water pressure
- Airlocks in the system
- Frozen condensate pipes (especially in winter)
- Faulty sensors
- Ignition failure
- Interruption to the gas supply
- Thermostat communication issues
- Blocked or leaking heat exchangers
At Assett Plumbing, one of the most common problems we’re called out to fix is low boiler pressure. This is usually caused by a water leak, bleeding radiators or a faulty pressure relief valve.
How Do I Clear A Boiler Fault Code?
In some cases, you may be able to resolve the issues yourself, especially if it’s a simple one like low pressure. Here’s a general guide:
- Check system pressure- Look at your boiler’s pressure gauge; if it’s below 1 bar, the system needs repressurising. Most systems should sit between 1 and 1.5 bars.
- Repressurise the boiler- Use the filling loop (usually a silver braided hose under the boiler with one or more taps fitted) to allow more water into the system until the pressure rises. Always follow your manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Reset the boiler- Once pressure is restored, press the reset button on the boiler’s control panel. This may clear the fault code.
- Check for gas supply issues- If your boiler fault relates to ignition, check if your other gas appliances are working. Contact your gas supplier immediately if you have no gas supply.
Important Note: If you’re in any doubt or the issue involves gas, electrics or internal parts, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Contact a qualified engineer such as Assett Plumbing.
Should I Call A Professional Plumber?
Some basic boiler faults, such as low water pressure, can be fixed at home, but if you see any of the following, it is time to call an expert:
- The fault code keeps returning even after a reset.
- You have topped up the pressure, and it drops again.
- The boiler won’t fire up.
- You smell gas or suspect a leak.
- You are unsure what the code means.
Asset Plumbing’s Gas Safe engineers are on hand across the local area to help with your boiler and heating needs.
Our Emergency Plumbers cover homes and businesses throughout Northamptonshire, including:
We are approved and fully vetted by Northants County Council as Buy with Confidence approved plumbers, as well as being certified Trusted Traders.
Why Choose Assett Plumbing?
We are proud to be part of the Northamptonshire community, responding to calls, offering expert advice and ensuring the local homes and businesses are safe.
When you choose Assett Plumbing, you’re partnering with a team that genuinely cares about your comfort and safety.
From boiler servicing to emergency call-outs, we are the Northampton plumber you can trust.
Contact Assett Plumbing today for all your plumbing needs in Northampton and surrounding towns. Call us on
01604 372395.
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