High Lockout
A1281 on Worcester Bosch CDi Classic

Your boiler is struggling to move water through the system, either because the pump is jammed or there is not enough water present.

Call an engineer soon

Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24 to 48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.

Technical description

Pump stock or running dry

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the boiler's internal pump is unable to circulate water, leading to a rapid heat build-up that triggers a safety shutdown. The most common reasons are a pump that has seized due to debris or a lack of water pressure caused by air trapped in the system or a leak.

This issue often appears at the start of autumn when the heating is turned back on after sitting idle all summer, which can cause the pump components to stick.

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.

Find a Gas Safe engineer
Search the official register →

Related fault codes

Related guides you might find useful