Your boiler has detected that the two pipes measuring temperature are giving very different readings, which usually means a sensor is failing or there is a blockage in the system.
Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24–48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.
Technical description: Fault: Flow/return sensor - Temperature difference between flow and return temperature sensor is too great
What causes this fault?
This fault occurs when the boiler's internal computer notices that the flow and return pipes have wildly different temperatures, which shouldn't happen during normal operation. The most common reason is that one of the temperature sensors has become faulty or uncalibrated, though it can also be caused by a physical blockage or a pump failure preventing water from circulating correctly.
This fault often surfaces when the heating is first turned on after summer, as internal components like the pump can seize or debris can settle during long periods of inactivity.
Engineer required
This fault requires a Gas Safe registered engineer. Do not attempt gas-related repairs yourself.
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A boiler cover plan would cover faults like F.72 — no call-out fees, no surprises.
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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.
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