Your boiler has tried to light but failed, meaning your heating and hot water will not work until it is reset or repaired.
Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24–48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.
Technical description: Ignition failure
What causes this fault?
This fault occurs when the boiler's control system attempts to start the burner but cannot detect a stable flame after several attempts. The most common reasons include a lack of gas supply to the unit, a blocked burner, or dirty sensors that can no longer 'see' the flame even if it has lit.
This fault can be more frequent during extreme cold spells if the external gas meter regulator freezes or if there is a temporary drop in local gas pressure.
DIY fix possible
Check that your gas supply is turned on and other gas appliances are workingPress and hold the 'R' reset button for several secondsEnsure your condensate pipe has not frozen if it is very cold outside
Find a Gas Safe engineer
Search the official register for a qualified engineer in your area.
Gas Safe Register →Protect yourself from future repair bills
A boiler cover plan would cover faults like 1 — no call-out fees, no surprises.
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Could it be time for a new boiler?
If repair costs are adding up, a new energy-efficient boiler could be the smarter long-term choice.
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