BoilerFaultCodes.com
LF High Lockout

Your boiler has tried to ignite three times but failed, meaning it has locked itself out for safety and you will have no heating or hot water.

Call an engineer soon

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

Technical description: The boiler does not light after 3 attempts

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the boiler's internal sensor fails to detect a flame after several attempts to start. The most common reasons are a temporary interruption in the gas supply, a blocked drainage pipe, or a build-up of carbon on the part that creates the spark. Because the boiler cannot confirm it is safely burning gas, it shuts down to prevent unburnt gas from escaping.

This fault is more common in freezing winter temperatures, as the external condensate drainage pipe can freeze and back up into the boiler, preventing ignition.

Typical repair cost £100-£250 (including labour)

DIY fix possible

Check if your gas supply is active (e.g., check if a gas hob or other gas appliance works).Check if your gas meter has credit (for pre-payment customers).Press the 'Restart' button on the front control panel to reset the ignition sequence.

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 LF — no call-out fees, no surprises.

Top rated
OpenFix
Boiler & heating care plans
Get a quote →
Hometree
from £12.95/month
Get a quote →
HomeServe
from £8.00/month
Get a quote →

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

Ideal Elise H 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.

UK's #1 online installer
Boxt
Fixed-price online quotes. Next-day installation.
Get a free quote →
Heatable
Instant online boiler quotes from £1,499.
Get a free quote →
iHeat
Fast installation. Price match guarantee.
Get a free quote →

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

Related fault codes