High Lockout
F.23 on Vaillant ecoTEC

Your boiler is struggling to move water around the system properly, causing it to overheat and shut down for safety.

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

Water shortage, temperature difference between flow and return NTC too large

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the boiler detects that water isn't circulating through the pipes and radiators fast enough to carry heat away from the burner. The most common reasons are a seized internal pump or a blockage in the system, such as a buildup of sludge or a clogged heating filter, which prevents the water from moving freely. Because the heat cannot escape, the boiler reaches a dangerous temperature and shuts down to prevent internal damage.

This fault is frequently seen at the start of autumn when the heating is turned on for the first time after summer, as the pump can seize during long periods of inactivity.

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.

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