Your boiler is failing to light or cannot detect the flame, meaning it has shut down to prevent unburned gas from building up.
Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24–48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.
Technical description: No flame or no ionisation (after 3 starts): a. no ignition spark (visible through inspection glass). Check: connection of ignition cable and spark plug cap; ignition cable and electrode for breakdown; electrode distance; must be 3-4 mm. b. ignition spark, but no flame. Check if: gas cock is open; inlet gas pressure is sufficient; gas pipe is vented; gas valve is energized during ignition; electrode is fitted properly; the gas/air ratio is not correct; the gas pipe is not clogged or shows an assembly fault. c. flame, but no ionisation.
What causes this fault?
This fault happens because the boiler has attempted to light three times but failed to establish or detect a steady flame. It is usually caused by a worn-out ignition spark or a problem with the gas supply reaching the burner. Without a confirmed flame, the boiler shuts down as a safety measure to prevent unburned gas from accumulating inside the unit.
This issue is more frequent during the first cold snap of autumn when internal components that have been idle over summer fail to operate correctly upon restart.
DIY fix possible
Check that your gas emergency control valve and any internal gas lever valves are fully open.Verify if other gas appliances in your home, such as a hob, are working to confirm gas supply.If you have a prepayment meter, ensure you have sufficient credit.Press the reset button on the control panel once to see if the boiler restarts.
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 0 2. — no call-out fees, no surprises.
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Remeha W40 60 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.
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.