Glow-worm S.32 Fault Code
Also written as S32 — same fault.
The Glow-worm S.32 fault code means: your boiler is temporarily pausing because it thinks it is at risk of freezing or there is a minor airflow issue, and it is waiting for conditions to return to normal.. It appears on 12 Glow-worm models in our database.
Technical description: Antifreeze active – fan speed variation too high – waiting during blocking function
What causes the Glow-worm S.32 fault?
This code appears when the boiler's internal sensors detect that the fan speed is fluctuating too much or the temperature has dropped low enough to trigger the built-in frost protection. It is a safety pause where the boiler waits for the air pressure to stabilize or for the internal pipework to reach a safe temperature before firing up again. Most often, it is simply a temporary reaction to external wind gusts affecting the flue or a very cold spell rather than a component failure.
This fault is more common during the winter months, specifically when external temperatures drop below 5°C or during periods of high winds.
DIY fix possible
Check that the external flue terminal is not blocked by debris, ice, or snow.Ensure any visible condensate pipes are not frozen.Wait up to 20 minutes for the boiler to complete its self-check cycle.Reset the boiler if the code persists after the system has warmed up.
Find a Gas Safe engineer
Search the official register for a qualified engineer in your area.
Gas Safe Register →Glow-worm models that show the S.32 fault code
Click a model for the full fault code list and model-specific repair notes.
- Flexicom 18sx Repair: £150-350
- Flexicom cx Repair: £0-120
- Flexicom hx Repair: £150-350
- Flexicom sx Repair: £150-350
- Ultracom 2 CXI Repair: £0-120
- Ultracom 2 HXI Repair: £0-120
- Ultracom 2 SXI Repair: £0-180
- Ultracom 24cx 30cx Repair: £0-120
- Ultracom 35 Store Repair: £0-120
- Ultracom cxi Repair: £0-120
- Ultracom hxi Repair: £0-120
- Ultracom sxi Repair: £0-180
Source
Glow-worm S.32 fault code information on this page is sourced and cross-checked against the official Glow-worm service / installation manuals for each affected model.
Reviewed by the BoilerFaultCodes Editorial Team · Last reviewed 27 April 2026