Vaillant S.5 Fault Code
Also written as S5 — same fault.
The Vaillant S.5 fault code means: your boiler is pausing during its startup sequence while it waits for a signal that the fire has safely lit.. It appears on 21 Vaillant models in our database.
Technical description: Fan and pump running
What causes the Vaillant S.5 fault?
This status occurs when the boiler's internal computer is waiting for the flame sensors to confirm the burner has successfully lit. It usually signals a breakdown in communication between the ignition components and the control board, often caused by worn-out spark electrodes or a faulty gas valve failing to release fuel. If the boiler cannot confirm a safe flame after several attempts, it will eventually stop trying and display a full fault code.
Engineer required
This fault requires a Gas Safe registered engineer. Do not attempt gas-related repairs yourself.
Find a Gas Safe engineer
Search the official register for a qualified engineer in your area.
Gas Safe Register →Vaillant models that show the S.5 fault code
Click a model for the full fault code list and model-specific repair notes.
- ecoMAX 613
- ecoMAX 618
- ecoMAX 622
- ecoMAX 635
- ecoMAX 824E
- ecoMAX 828E
- ecoMAX System 612
- ecoTEC
- ecoTEC exclusive
- ecoTEC plus Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC Plus 615 Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC Plus 620 Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC Plus 625 Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC Plus 630 Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC Plus 635 Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC Plus 65 Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC Plus 832 Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC Plus 836 Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC Plus 840 Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC Plus 938 Repair: £120-350
- ecoTEC sustain Repair: £120-350
Source
Vaillant S.5 fault code information on this page is sourced and cross-checked against the official Vaillant service / installation manuals for each affected model.
Reviewed by the BoilerFaultCodes Editorial Team · Last reviewed 27 April 2026