High
E42 on Potterton Powermax HE

Your boiler's computer brain has encountered a serious internal error and can no longer control the heating or hot water safely.

Reviewed by the BoilerFaultCodes Editorial Team · Last reviewed

Call an engineer soon

Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24 to 48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.

What the manual says

Manufacturer manual

Internal control error. Switch OFF/ON at mains isolator. Replace boiler control Part No. 5107535

From this model's manual
Verified against the Potterton Powermax He installation & service manual, page 39.
Plain-English guidance below. Severity, DIY steps, costs and parts are our interpretation to help you act, not text from the manual.

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the boiler's main electronic circuit board suffers a critical internal failure, meaning it can no longer process data or manage safety checks correctly. It is usually caused by the natural degradation of electrical components over time or a sudden power surge that damages the board's memory.

Engineer required

This is a high severity fault. Stop using the boiler and call a Gas Safe registered engineer. Do not attempt gas-related repairs yourself.

Find a Gas Safe engineer
Search the official register →
Boiler cover options

Avoid the next call-out bill

A cover plan would handle faults like E42: no call-out fees, no surprise bills.

Approved partner
Domestic Appliance Guard
Unlimited call-outs, 24/7 helpline, no price-hike promise
Get a quote →

Affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Related fault codes

E40View →

Related guides you might find useful

No hot water but heating works

Almost always a stuck diverter valve on combis.

Read →

Yellow or orange flame — CO safety

Safety-critical — turn off, read this.

Read →

When to replace your boiler

7 signs repair isn't worth it anymore.

Read →