Your boiler is temporarily pausing its burner to prevent it from switching on and off too frequently, which protects the internal components and saves energy.
This is a minor fault. Keep an eye on it and mention it at your next annual boiler service. Reset the boiler and see if it clears.
Technical description: Anti cycling period
What causes this fault?
This occurs when your boiler has reached its target temperature and shuts off, entering a built-in waiting period before it can fire up again. It happens to prevent the system from 'short cycling,' which is when the boiler turns on and off too rapidly, causing unnecessary wear and tear. This is usually triggered because the heat produced is more than your home currently needs or because the water is circulating too slowly through your radiators.
This is more common during the autumn and spring when the weather is milder and your home doesn't require the boiler to run at full power for long periods.
DIY fix possible
Wait for 5 to 15 minutes for the countdown to finishEnsure your room thermostat is turned up high enough to call for heatCheck that your radiator valves are open
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 S.08 — no call-out fees, no surprises.
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Glow-worm Flexicom cx 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.
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.