BoilerFaultCodes.com
4.9 High Lockout

Your boiler has lost its ability to measure the temperature of the water coming back from your radiators, often resulting in the system shutting down for safety.

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: Return Thermistor Fault

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the sensor responsible for monitoring the temperature of the water returning to the boiler begins sending incorrect data or stops communicating entirely. The most common reason is that the internal components of the thermistor have degraded over time or a wire has shaken loose, preventing the boiler from safely managing its heat output.

Typical repair cost £120-£210 (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 4.9 — 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.

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.

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