Your boiler has detected that water is not circulating correctly through the system before the burner ignites.
Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24–48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.
Technical description: Pre-circulation error
What causes this fault?
This fault occurs when the boiler's internal sensors detect that water isn't moving through the unit quickly enough before it attempts to fire up. The most common reason is a seized or failing circulation pump, though it can also be caused by air trapped in the heat exchanger or a blockage in the system pipework. Because the heat cannot be carried away from the burner, the boiler shuts down to prevent internal damage from overheating.
This error is frequently seen at the start of autumn when heating systems are turned on for the first time after summer, as pump components can seize during long periods of inactivity.
DIY fix possible
Check that your system pressure is between 1.0 and 1.5 bar on the pressure gaugeEnsure all radiator valves and isolation valves under the boiler are fully openBleed your radiators to remove any trapped air pockets that may be blocking flow
Find a Gas Safe engineer
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Gas Safe Register →Protect yourself from future repair bills
A boiler cover plan would cover faults like E193 — no call-out fees, no surprises.
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Baxi Platinum is discontinued — time for a new one?
Parts for discontinued models can be hard to find and expensive. A new A-rated boiler could save you money on both repairs and energy bills.
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