BoilerFaultCodes.com
51 High Lockout

Your boiler's pilot light is failing to stay ignited after you try to light it, meaning the main burner cannot start to provide heat.

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: PILOT WILL NOT STAY LIT WHEN THE GAS CONTROL VALVE KNOB IS RELEASED

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the boiler's safety mechanism fails to detect a healthy flame, causing it to shut off the gas supply for safety. The most common reason is a worn-out thermocouple that can no longer generate the small electrical current needed to hold the internal gas valve open. It can also be triggered by a faulty overheat thermostat or a blockage in the pilot injector preventing a consistent flame.

Typical repair cost £90-180 (including labour)

Engineer required

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

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 51 — 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 Mexico CF3100 CF3140 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.