BoilerFaultCodes.com
E270 High Lockout

Your boiler has detected that there is no water moving through the system while it is trying to heat up, causing it to shut down to prevent overheating.

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: Dry fire

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the boiler detects a rapid rise in internal temperature but no movement of water to carry that heat away. The most common reasons are a failed internal pump that isn't circulating the water or a significant blockage in the system's pipework. In some cases, a faulty sensor may also incorrectly report that the system is dry when it is actually full.

This fault is more common in autumn when heating systems are switched back on after a long summer break, as pumps can often seize up from lack of use.

Typical repair cost £100-£350 (including labour)

DIY fix possible

Check the pressure gauge on the front of the boiler is between 1 and 1.5 barTop up the water pressure using the external filling loop if it is too lowEnsure all radiator valves and boiler isolation valves are fully openPress the reset button for five seconds

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 E270 — 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