Your boiler's fan is failing to reach the correct speed required to safely clear exhaust gases before or after the burner fires.
Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24–48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.
Technical description: Ventilation: When the appliance is started the fan is first brought to starting speed, or post-ventilation is taking place after the burner has stopped.
What causes this fault?
This fault occurs when the boiler's control system detects that the fan isn't spinning at the necessary speed to safely move air through the unit. The most common reasons are a build-up of debris causing the fan to stick, a loose connection in the wiring, or a mechanical failure of the fan motor itself.
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 3 — no call-out fees, no surprises.
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.
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.