Technical description
Ignition failure
What causes this fault?
This fault occurs when the boiler attempts to start up but cannot establish or detect a flame. The most common reasons include a lack of gas reaching the unit, a worn-out electrode that can no longer create a spark, or a build-up of carbon that prevents the sensor from 'seeing' the flame. It can also be caused by an internal electronic failure where the boiler's computer fails to open the gas valve correctly.
This fault is more common in winter, as extremely cold temperatures can cause external gas regulators to freeze or condensation pipes to block, both of which prevent successful ignition.
Engineer required
This is a high severity fault. Stop using the boiler and call a Gas Safe registered engineer. Do not attempt gas-related repairs yourself.