BoilerFaultCodes.com
F.20 High Lockout

Your boiler has shut itself down because it has become too hot inside, likely due to a circulation issue or a lack of water.

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: Safety switch-off: Overheating temperature reached

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the boiler’s internal temperature rises too quickly or exceeds a safe limit, causing the system to shut down for safety. It is usually caused by a lack of water flow, which can happen if the pump has failed, the system pressure is too low, or there is a blockage or trapped air preventing the heat from being carried away from the heat exchanger.

This issue is more common when the heating is first turned on after summer, as pump components can seize up during long periods of inactivity.

Typical repair cost £100-£350 (including labour)

DIY fix possible

Check if your radiator valves are open to allow water to flowCheck the boiler pressure gauge and top it up to 1.5 bar if it is too lowPress the 'Reset' button (represented by a flame with a line through it) to restart the system

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 F.20 — 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