BoilerFaultCodesAlpha 61 Fault Code
The Alpha 61 fault code means: your boiler has detected trapped air or a blockage that is stopping water from flowing through your heating system correctly.. It appears on 20 Alpha models in our database.
Technical description: Air in the pump (restricted central heating flow)
What causes the Alpha 61 fault?
This fault occurs when air becomes trapped inside the boiler's internal pump, preventing it from effectively pushing water around your radiators. The most common reason is a buildup of air pockets following a system drain-down or a failure of the automatic vent that is supposed to release these gases. In some cases, it can also be triggered by a heavy buildup of sludge or debris that has physically blocked the water's path.
This code is frequently seen in autumn when heating systems are turned back on after the summer and trapped air or settled debris begins to circulate.
DIY fix possible
Check that your boiler pressure is between 1.0 and 1.5 barBleed your radiators using a radiator key to remove trapped airEnsure all radiator valves and isolation valves under the boiler are fully openReset the boiler using the selector switch
Find a Gas Safe engineer
Search the official register for a qualified engineer in your area.
Gas Safe Register →Alpha models that show the 61 fault code
Click a model for the full fault code list and model-specific repair notes.
- C25 Xtraflame Repair: £90-180
- E-Tec Repair: £90-180
- E-Tec 24 Repair: £90-180
- E-Tec 28 Repair: £90-180
- E-Tec 33 Repair: £90-180
- E-Tec Plus Repair: £90-180
- E-Tec Plus 10 / 18 Repair: £90-250
- E-Tec Plus 24 Repair: £90-180
- E-Tec Plus 28 Repair: £90-180
- E-Tec Plus 33 Repair: £90-180
- E-Tec R Repair: £90-150
- E-Tec, E-Tec Plus, Evoke Repair: £80-180
- Evoke Repair: £100-250
- Evoke 10 / 18 Repair: £80-250
- FMK Repair: £80-250
- H25 Xtraflame Repair: £90-180
- Intec 28GS Repair: £90-180
- Intec 50CS Repair: £90-180
- Intec2 25 28XE Repair: £80-150
- Intec2 30SE Repair: £80-150
Source
Alpha 61 fault code information on this page is sourced and cross-checked against the official Alpha service / installation manuals for each affected model.
Reviewed by the BoilerFaultCodes Editorial Team · Last reviewed 27 April 2026