Your boiler has tried to light several times but cannot establish a flame, meaning your heating and hot water will not work until it is reset or repaired.
Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24–48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.
Technical description: Ignition lockout
What causes this fault?
This fault occurs when the boiler's internal computer senses that a flame has not been successfully lit after several attempts. The most common reasons include a lack of gas reaching the burner, a dirty or worn spark plug that can't create a flame, or an issue with the gas valve not opening correctly.
This fault is more common during extreme cold spells, as the external condensate pipe can freeze and back up, preventing the boiler from completing the ignition process.
DIY fix possible
Check if your gas supply is turned on at the meter or if other gas appliances are working.If you have a prepaid gas meter, ensure it has sufficient credit.Press and hold the 'Reset' button for five seconds to see if the boiler restarts.Check that the white plastic condensate pipe outside hasn't frozen during cold weather.
Find a Gas Safe engineer
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Gas Safe Register →Protect yourself from future repair bills
A boiler cover plan would cover faults like L2 — 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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