BoilerFaultCodes.com
E21 High Lockout

Your boiler has detected that the water returning from your radiators is too hot, causing the system to shut down to prevent damage.

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: Central heating (CH) return sensor overheating

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the internal sensors detect that the water flowing back from your radiators is at a dangerously high temperature, suggesting the heat isn't being dissipated correctly. The most common reasons are a blockage in the system, a failing pump that isn't circulating water fast enough, or a faulty sensor sending incorrect readings to the boiler.

This issue often comes to light during the first cold spell of autumn when the heating is turned on for the first time after summer, often due to a pump that has seized while sitting idle.

Typical repair cost £120-250 (including labour)

DIY fix possible

Check that all radiator valves are fully openEnsure the central heating system pressure is between 1.0 and 1.5 barSwitch the boiler off and on again to see if the fault clears after the system cools down

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 E21 — 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.

Ravenheat CS 80/90, WH System, WH 80/90 is discontinued — time for a new one?

Parts for discontinued models can be hard to find and expensive. A new A-rated boiler could save you money on both repairs and energy bills.

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