Your boiler has sensed it is getting too hot too quickly, likely because water isn't moving through the system properly.
Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24–48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.
Technical description: Circulation fault (dry fire).
What causes this fault?
This fault occurs when the boiler's internal sensors detect the temperature rising far too quickly, often because there is no water flow to carry the heat away. The most common reasons are a failed circulation pump that can no longer push water through the pipes, or a blockage caused by a build-up of debris or limescale. In some cases, it may also be caused by air trapped in the system or a blockage in the heat exchanger.
This fault is frequently seen in autumn when the heating is turned on for the first time after summer, as pump components can seize up during long periods of inactivity.
DIY fix possible
Check that the boiler pressure is between 1.0 and 1.5 bar on the gauge; top up if it is too low.Ensure all radiator valves and isolation valves under the boiler are fully open.Bleed all radiators to remove trapped air that might be blocking water flow.Turn the boiler off and back on again to see if the fault clears.
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A boiler cover plan would cover faults like E270 — 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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