Your boiler has detected a flame when there shouldn't be one, which means the internal sensors or ignition parts are sending incorrect signals to the control board.
Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24–48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.
Technical description: Internal boiler wiring integrity or electrode deterioration.
What causes this fault?
This fault occurs when the boiler's control system detects an electrical current that mimics a flame, even though the gas hasn't been turned on yet. The most common reason is a buildup of carbon or moisture on the ignition electrode, which causes it to send a false 'fire' signal to the main computer. In some cases, it can also be caused by a fault within the internal wiring or the control board itself misreading the sensor data.
Engineer required
This fault requires a Gas Safe registered engineer. Do not attempt gas-related repairs yourself.
Find a Gas Safe engineer
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A boiler cover plan would cover faults like Flame on before gas valve on — no call-out fees, no surprises.
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Could it be time for a new boiler?
If repair costs are adding up, a new energy-efficient boiler could be the smarter long-term choice.
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