High
Red operational light 2 (E) on Ideal Excel HE

Your boiler has failed to ignite and has safely locked itself down to prevent any issues with unburnt gas.

Reviewed by the BoilerFaultCodes Editorial Team · Last reviewed

Call an engineer soon

Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24 to 48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.

What the manual says

Manufacturer manual

Boiler fails to light up to five times during the ignition sequence, the boiler will go to lockout (can take up to 10 minutes in an overheat condition).

From this model's manual
Verified against the Ideal Boiler Excel He installation & service manual.
Plain-English guidance below. Severity, DIY steps, costs and parts are our interpretation to help you act, not text from the manual.

Engineer required

This is a high severity fault. Stop using the boiler and call a Gas Safe registered engineer. Do not attempt gas-related repairs yourself.

Find a Gas Safe engineer
Search the official register →
Boiler cover options

Avoid the next call-out bill

A cover plan would handle faults like Red operational light 2 (E): no call-out fees, no surprise bills.

Approved partner
Domestic Appliance Guard
Unlimited call-outs, 24/7 helpline, no price-hike promise
Get a quote →

Affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Related guides you might find useful

Boiler keeps cutting out

Lockout fault with a reset-needed pattern.

Read →

Pilot light keeps going out

Older boilers — thermocouple, draught, gas supply.

Read →

When to replace your boiler

7 signs repair isn't worth it anymore.

Read →