Common problems guide

The most common Vokera Compact HE problems

The faults most likely to send a Vokera Compact HE into lockout — with plain-English causes, what to check first, estimated repair costs and whether you need a Gas Safe engineer.

This model is discontinued. Parts can be harder to source and expensive. If repair costs are mounting, a new A-rated boiler may be the smarter choice.
25 documented codes
6 most common
6 DIY-safe checks
0 engineer needed

The 6 most common faults

01
RED LED ON every 0.5-secs High DIY-safe

Your boiler has detected a safety-related issue with its internal components or airflow and has locked itself down to prevent damage.

Why it happens: This fault occurs when the boiler's safety sensors detect that the system cannot safely move air or water through the unit. It is most commonly caused by a mechanical failure in the fan or a blockage in the flue and condensate drainage system that prevents the boiler from 'breathing' correctly. In some cases, it can also be triggered if the unit overheats due to a lack of water circulation.

What to try first

Check that the system water pressure is between 1 and 1.5 bar on the pressure gaugeTurn the mode selector switch to 'OFF/RESET' for a few seconds, then back to the heater or hot water iconEnsure the external flue terminal is not obstructed by debris or garden growth

Est. cost
£100-350
Parts
Fan, Air Pressure Switch, Limit Thermostat
Full guide for RED LED ON every 0.5-secs
02
Red LED illuminated High DIY-safe

Your boiler has stopped working because the water pressure is too low for the system to run safely.

Why it happens: This fault occurs when the internal water pressure drops below the minimum level required for the boiler to operate safely. The most common reasons are a slow leak hidden somewhere in your radiator system or air being released through a safety valve.

What to try first

Locate the filling loop (the silver flexible hose) underneath or near the boiler.Slowly open the one or two taps/valves on the filling loop until you hear water entering the system.Watch the pressure gauge on the front of the boiler and close the taps once the needle reaches between 1 and 1.5 bar.Restart or reset the boiler by turning the mode selector switch to 'OFF/RESET' and then back to heating/hot water.

Est. cost
£0-80
Parts
Filling loop valves, Pressure gauge, Expansion vessel
Full guide for Red LED illuminated
03
Fault light is on High DIY-safe

Your boiler has detected a general internal error and has locked itself out for safety, meaning your heating and hot water will not work until it is reset or repaired.

Why it happens: This fault occurs when the boiler's internal computer detects an inconsistency in the ignition process or a failure in one of its safety sensors. The most common reasons are that the boiler is struggling to generate a spark to light the gas, or a faulty sensor is sending incorrect temperature readings to the main control board.

What to try first

Check if your gas prepay meter has creditRotate the mode selector switch to the 'OFF/RESET' position, wait five seconds, then move it back to 'Auto' or 'Hot Water Only'Check your pressure gauge is between 1 and 1.5 bar; if it is too low, top it up using the filling loop

Est. cost
£100-350
Parts
Ignition Electrode, Printed Circuit Board (PCB), Thermistor (NTC Sensor)
Full guide for Fault light is on
04
Red | On every 0.5 second High DIY-safe

Your boiler has entered a safety lockout mode due to a critical internal fault or an ignition failure.

Why it happens: This fault occurs when the boiler's control system detects a critical safety issue, most often failing to light the flame after several attempts. It can be caused by a lack of gas reaching the burner, a worn-out spark electrode, or an electrical failure within the main control board. Essentially, the boiler has stopped working to prevent unburnt gas from building up or to protect its internal components from damage.

What to try first

Move the mode selector switch to the 'OFF/RESET' position.Wait approximately 10 seconds.Move the switch back to either 'Hot Water Only' or 'Heating and Hot Water' and wait for the boiler to attempt to reignite.

Est. cost
£100-£350
Parts
Ignition electrode, Printed Circuit Board (PCB), Gas Valve
Full guide for Red | On every 0.5 second
05
Red | On permanently High DIY-safe

Your boiler has become too hot and has shut itself down as a safety precaution to prevent damage.

Why it happens: This fault occurs when the water inside the heat exchanger reaches an unsafe temperature, triggering a safety sensor to cut the power. The most common reasons are a failed pump that isn't moving water around the system or a blockage of sludge and debris restricting the flow. Sometimes, a faulty sensor can also trick the boiler into thinking it is overheating when it actually isn't.

What to try first

Wait at least 20 minutes for the boiler to cool down naturally.Ensure all radiator valves (TRVs) are fully open to allow water to flow.Turn the mode selector switch to the 'OFF/RESET' position, wait a few seconds, then turn it back to the original setting.

Est. cost
£100-£280
Parts
Overheat Thermostat, Circulation Pump, Thermistor (NTC Sensor)
Full guide for Red | On permanently
06
RED LED BLINKS High DIY-safe

Your boiler has likely overheated or has an issue with its internal fan system, causing it to shut down for safety.

Why it happens: This fault occurs when the boiler's internal components detect that the unit is either getting too hot or that the fan isn't safely clearing waste gases. The most common reasons are a blockage in the flue, a failing circulation pump, or a simple mechanical failure of the safety sensors themselves.

What to try first

Turn the mode selector switch to 'OFF/RESET' for a few seconds.Move the switch back to either 'Hot Water' or 'Heating and Hot Water' mode.Check that all radiator valves are open and your wireless thermostat has working batteries.

Est. cost
£120-280
Parts
High Limit Thermostat, Air Pressure Switch, Fan Assembly
Full guide for RED LED BLINKS

on the Vokera Compact HE

FanAir Pressure SwitchLimit ThermostatCondensate TrapFilling loop valvesPressure gauge

Based on parts cited in our fault code database. Your engineer will confirm what's actually needed after diagnosis.

Call a Gas Safe engineer if…

  • You can smell gas or see signs of a leak
  • The Vokera shows an Emergency or High severity code
  • The boiler keeps locking out after repeated resets
  • You've tried the DIY checks and the fault hasn't cleared
  • There's visible water leaking from the boiler
  • The flame is yellow or orange instead of blue
See the full 25-code list for the Vokera Compact HE