BoilerFaultCodes.com
3.C Medium Warning

Your boiler is heating up too quickly and has paused itself to prevent over-heating, which often suggests there is a problem with the water circulating through the system.

Book a service

This fault should be looked at by a Gas Safe engineer within the next week or two. It may get worse if left.

Technical description: Anti-cycle flow temperature differential

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the boiler detects that the water inside the heat exchanger is getting hot much faster than it can be moved around your radiators. The most common reason is a blockage or a failing pump that is preventing the water from circulating properly, causing the heat to build up to unsafe levels within the unit. It can also be caused by air trapped in the system or closed radiator valves stopping the flow of water.

This issue often appears when you first turn the heating back on in autumn, as internal pump parts can seize or sludge can settle during the summer months of inactivity.

Typical repair cost £100-250 (including labour)

DIY fix possible

Check that all radiator valves are fully openEnsure your system pressure is between 1 and 1.5 bar on the gaugeBleed all radiators to remove trapped air

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 3.C — 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.

Related fault codes