Your boiler is having trouble measuring the temperature of your hot water, which usually means your taps will only run cold.
Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24–48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.
Technical description: Domestic hot water (DHW) sensor fault
What causes this fault?
This fault occurs when the boiler's control board loses communication with the sensor responsible for monitoring your hot water temperature. The most common reason is that the internal sensor has developed a physical defect or the electrical wiring connecting it to the main system has become loose or damaged. Without this information, the boiler shuts down the hot water function as a safety precaution to prevent scalding.
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 F52 — 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.