Pilot does not light High

Ideal Pilot does not light Fault Code

Also written as PILOTDOESNOTLIGHT — same fault.

The Ideal Pilot does not light fault code means: your boiler is failing to ignite the small starter flame, which means the main burner cannot catch light to provide heating or hot water.. It appears on 1 Ideal model in our database.

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.

Technical description: Check gas supply, air in gas line, pilot injector blockage, or supply voltage at pilot gas valve

What causes the Ideal Pilot does not light fault?

This fault occurs when the small pilot flame fails to ignite or stay lit, preventing the main boiler from firing up. The most common reasons include a buildup of soot or debris blocking the tiny pilot hole, a worn-out probe that can no longer sense the heat, or a lack of gas reaching the burner.

This issue is more common after the boiler has been switched off all summer, as dust can settle in the pilot assembly or the gas line can develop air pockets during periods of inactivity.

Typical repair cost £120-£280 (including labour)

Engineer required

This fault requires a Gas Safe registered engineer. Do not attempt gas-related repairs yourself.

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Ideal models that show the Pilot does not light fault code

Click a model for the full fault code list and model-specific repair notes.

Source

Ideal Pilot does not light fault code information on this page is sourced and cross-checked against the official Ideal service / installation manuals for each affected model.

Reviewed by the BoilerFaultCodes Editorial Team · Last reviewed 27 April 2026