BoilerFaultCodes.com
F24 High Lockout

Your boiler has stopped working because the water returning from your radiators has become too hot, which usually means the water isn't circulating properly through the system.

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 return temperature is greater than90°C

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the water returning to the boiler is too hot, which happens when heat cannot be transferred away into your radiators effectively. The most common reasons are a pump failure that has stopped water from moving, or a blockage caused by a build-up of sludge and debris in the pipework.

This fault often appears during the first cold spell of autumn when the heating is turned back on after being idle all summer, which can cause internal pump components to seize.

Typical repair cost £120-350 (including labour)

DIY fix possible

Check that all radiator valves (TRVs) are fully openEnsure the boiler pressure is between 1.0 and 1.5 barCheck if any bypass valves in your pipework are accidentally closed

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 F24 — 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