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Vaillant boiler error codes explained

Vaillant boilers are known for their reliability and efficiency, but like any complex system, they can occasionally run into issues. When problems arise, the boiler will display specific error codes that help identify the fault. Understanding these codes is crucial for diagnosing and resolving issues quickly, whether you're a homeowner or a professional engineer.

These error codes can indicate a range of issues, from problems with the gas supply, safety switches, or temperature sensors, to more specific faults like defective condensate pumps, ignition failures, or incorrect settings.

This guide covers a comprehensive list of Vaillant boiler error codes across various models, such as the EcoTEC Plus, Turbomax Plus, and Ecomax Pro. Each code points to a particular issue, whether it's related to the gas flow pressure, flue gas temperature, or mass flow sensor.

By familiarising yourself with these error codes, you can better understand the problem, decide on the appropriate fix, and maintain your boiler's performance, ensuring a safe and efficient operation for years to come.

Vaillant boiler error codes by model

Vaillant boilers come in various models, each with its own set of error codes. These codes help identify issues ranging from gas supply problems to faulty temperature sensors.

Let’s break down these codes by model so you can quickly find the information relevant to your boiler.

1. Vaillant Turbomax Plus 824/828E

The Vaillant Turbomax Plus 824/828E is a widely used model known for its reliability. However, like any boiler, it can encounter issues. Below is a table of the most common error codes for this model.

Fault CodePossible CauseMeaning
F.00NTC FaultsFlow NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient Thermostat) cable is either defective or broken and needs to be replaced.
F.01NTC FaultsSimilar to F.00, this involves the feed temperature sensor and indicates a faulty connection or open circuit.
F.10NTC FaultsThis refers to a short circuit in the feed temperature sensor.
F.20OverheatingYour boiler has exceeded the maximum temperature and needs to cool down.
F.22Dry Fire, Low WaterThere’s either no water in your system, a defective pump, or the pump lead is defective.
F.28Ignition ProblemThis could be due to insufficient gas, a defective electrode, ignition lead, or an electronic ignitor.
F.29Flame ExtinguishedThe flame or pilot light has gone out. Check your flue duct or gas supply.
F.60Gas Valve Control FaultThe cable loom connected to your gas valve might have short-circuited. Alternatively, you could have a defective gas valve assembly or electronic control system.
F.63EEPROM ErrorThis indicates an electronic fault within your system.

2. Vaillant EcoMax Pro 18/28E

The Vaillant EcoMax Pro series is another popular model, especially in larger homes. Here are its common error codes.

Fault CodePossible CauseMeaning
F.1Gas Supply IssueThis could be due to a lack of gas, a fault with the ignition or flue, or you may need to adjust the gas valve or replace a defective electrode lead.
F.4Ignition FaultThe boiler failed to ignite.
F.5OverheatingThe system has overheated.
F.6NTC FaultYour flow NTC has developed a fault.
F.17Polarity IssueCheck the polarity of your system.
F.24Pump FailureThe pump could have failed, overrun, or there could be an issue with the airlock.

3. Vaillant Ecomax Pro 828E

For larger properties or commercial applications, the Vaillant EcoTEC 65kW is a powerhouse. Below are some common error codes for this model.

Fault CodePossible CauseMeaning
S.OHeating IssueNo heat demand.
S.1Fan Start-Up ErrorThe fan failed to start up.
S.3Ignition ProblemThe boiler failed to ignite.
S.4Burner On ErrorThere was an issue with the burner igniting.
S.31No Heat DemandThis typically occurs in summer operating mode.
S.34Frost Protection ErrorAn error occurred during the frost protection mode.
S.22Pump Flow ErrorThe pump is not circulating water as it should.

4. Vaillant EcoTEC 65kW error codes

The EcoTEC Pro and Plus models are among the most popular Vaillant boilers. They are efficient and reliable but can still encounter issues. Here’s a breakdown of the error codes for these models.

Fault CodePossible CauseMeaning
F.00 / F.0Flow Temperature Sensor InterruptionThe flow temperature sensor is not functioning correctly.
F.10Flow NTC Short CircuitThe flow NTC has a short circuit.
F.20Safety Switch OffThe temperature limiter has been triggered.
F.22Low Water PressureThe system has low water pressure.
F.23Temperature Difference Too GreatThe temperature difference between flow and return is too large.
F.25Flue Gas Temperature Too HighThe temperature of the flue gases is too high.
F.28Ignition UnsuccessfulThe boiler failed to ignite.
F.29Re-Ignition UnsuccessfulThe boiler failed to re-ignite after the flame went out.
F.61Gas Valve Regulation ErrorThe gas valve is not regulating the gas flow correctly.
F.62Gas Valve Switch Off DelayThe gas valve is not closing as quickly as it should.
F.73Water Pressure Sensor Signal Too LowThe signal from the water pressure sensor indicates low pressure.
F.75No Pressure Change DetectionThe system did not detect a change in pressure when the pump started.

5. Vaillant EcoTEC Pro / EcoTEC Plus boiler fault codes

For those with the EcoTEC Plus Regular Gas Boiler, the following error codes are essential to know.

Fault CodePossible CauseMeaning
S.20Warmstart DemandThe boiler is waiting for a heat demand.
S.21Fan RunningThe fan is running as expected.
S.22Pump RunningThe pump is running as expected.
S.23Ignition SequenceThe boiler is in the ignition sequence.
S.28Anti-Cycling ModeThe boiler is in anti-cycling mode, which prevents it from repeatedly turning on and off.
S.34Anti-Frost Mode ActiveThe boiler is in anti-frost mode.
S.53Modulation F Block FunctionThe boiler is in a waiting period due to water shortage.
S.96Return Sensor ErrorThere’s an issue with the return temperature sensor.

6. Vaillant EcoTEC Pro / EcoTEC Plus cont.

Fault CodePossible CauseMeaning
S.00Heating mode error – no heat demandNo heat demand detected in heating mode
S.01Heating mode fan start-upThe fan has started up in heating mode
S.02Heating mode error – water pump runningError with the water pump in heating mode
S.03Heating mode – ignition sequence errorProblem with the ignition sequence in heating mode
S.04Heating mode – burner ignitedBurner has successfully ignited in heating mode
S.06Heating mode – fan overrun errorFan is running longer than expected in heating mode
S.07Heating mode – pump overrun errorWater pump is running longer than expected in heating mode
S.08Heating remaining cut off time xx minutesTime remaining until heating mode shuts off
S.10Hot water demand via impeller sensorHot water demand detected via the impeller sensor
S.11DHW mode fan start-up errorError with fan start-up in Domestic Hot Water (DHW) mode
S.13DHW mode ignition errorIssue with ignition in DHW mode
S.14Hot water demand via fan sensor errorHot water demand detected via fan sensor error
S.15DHW mode pump and fan overrunBoth pump and fan running longer than expected in DHW mode
S.16DHW mode – fan overrun errorFan is running longer than expected in DHW mode
S.17DHW mode – pump overrun errorPump is running longer than expected in DHW mode
S.20DHW mode – burner on errorBurner issue detected in DHW mode
S.21DHW mode – fan start-up errorError with fan start-up in DHW mode
S.22DHW demand – error pump runningPump running error detected during DHW demand
S.23DHW ignition errorIgnition issue in DHW mode
S.24DHW mode – burner errorBurner error detected in DHW mode
S.25DHW mode – pump or fan overrun errorEither pump or fan running longer than expected in DHW mode
S.26DHW mode – fan overrunFan running longer than expected in DHW mode
S.27DHW mode – pump overrunPump running longer than expected in DHW mode
S.28Hot water burner anti-cycling timeAnti-cycling time for the hot water burner
S.30Room thermostat is blocking heating modeHeating mode is blocked by the room thermostat
S.31No heat demand boiler in summer operating modeNo heat demand as the boiler is in summer mode
S.32Waiting period because of fan speed deviationDelay due to fan speed deviation
S.34Heating mode frost protection errorError in frost protection during heating mode
S.39Burner off contact has been triggeredBurner shut off due to thermostat or condensate pump issue
S.40Comfort safety mode activeBoiler in safety mode to ensure comfort
S.41Water pressure > 2.8 barWater pressure exceeds 2.8 bar
S.42Flue non-return flap return signal blocks burner operationFlue flap issue blocking burner operation
S.46Comfort safety mode flame loss at minimum loadFlame loss in safety mode at minimum load
S.53Boiler is in waiting period of modulation function due to water shortageBoiler waiting due to water shortage affecting modulation
S.54Boiler is in waiting period of operation, blocking function as a resultOperation blocked due to waiting period
S.57Waiting period comfort safety modeBoiler in waiting period due to safety mode
S.58Modulation limitation due to noise/wind errorModulation limited due to noise or wind error
S.61Gas family check unsuccessfulFailed gas family check

7. Vaillant EcoTEC Plus Regular Gas Boiler

The Vaillant EcoTEC Plus Regular Gas Boiler combines robust performance with energy efficiency, ideal for homes that require a dependable and consistent heating source. For any operational issues, check the error codes below to help identify and resolve common problems with this model.

Fault CodePossible CauseMeaning
S.20Warnstar demandDemand signal error for Warnstar system
S.21Fan runningFan is operating
S.22Pump runningPump is operating
S.23Ignition sequenceIssue with the ignition sequence
S.24Burner ignitedBurner has ignited successfully
S.25Fan and water pump runningBoth fan and water pump are operating
S.26Fan overrunFan running longer than expected
S.27Pump overrunPump running longer than expected
S.28Anti-cycling modeMode to prevent rapid cycling of the burner
S.30No heating demand from external controlsNo heating demand detected from external controls
S.31Central heating thermostat knob turned offThermostat knob is set to off
S.32Heat exchanger antifreeze active due to high fan speed variationAnti-freeze mode activated due to fan speed variation
S.34Anti-frost mode is activeAnti-frost protection mode is active
S.36Not heating demand from low voltageLow voltage issue affecting heating demand
S.41Water pressure greater than 2.9 barWater pressure exceeds 2.9 bar
S.42Response from accessory module or defective condensate pump blocking burner operationAccessory module or condensate pump issue blocking burner
S.53Appliance in waiting period of block operation function due to water shortageWaiting period due to water shortage affecting block operation
S.54Appliance in waiting period of block operation due to water shortageWaiting period due to water shortage affecting block operation
S.96Return sensor errorError with the return sensor
S.98Flow return sensor check is running demand is blockedFlow return sensor check in progress with blocked demand

8. Vaillant EcoTEC Plus Gas Boiler

The Vaillant EcoTEC Plus Gas Boiler is known for its high efficiency and reliable heating performance, suited for various home heating needs. If you face any difficulties with your EcoTEC Plus, the error codes provided here will aid in diagnosing and fixing common issues effectively.

Fault CodePossible CauseMeaning
P.00Heating circuit and hot water circuit are purgedThe circuits are being purged.
P.01Maximum load test program errorError during the maximum load test program.
P.02Minimum load test programError during the minimum load test program.
P.06Filling mode test programError during the filling mode test program.

9. Vaillant EcoTEC Gas Boiler error codes

Designed to offer excellent heating efficiency, the Vaillant EcoTEC Gas Boiler is a versatile choice for residential heating. For any operational concerns, consult the following error codes to help pinpoint and resolve issues that may arise with this model.

Fault CodePossible CauseMeaning
D.0Heating part load errorError with heating part load.
D.1Water pump overrun – time for heat modeThe water pump is running longer than necessary.
D.2Max burner anti-cycling period at 20°C flow temperatureBurner anti-cycling period exceeded at 20°C.
D.3Hot water flow temperature readingReading issue with the hot water flow temperature.
D.4Current temperature for warm stat sensorIssue with the warm stat sensor temperature reading.
D.5Set value of flow temperature or target value of returnIncorrect set value for flow or return temperature.
D.7Warm start temperature target valueIssue with the warm start temperature target.
D.8External controls heat demandProblem with heat demand from external controls.
D.9Flow target temperature from external analogue regulator terminalIncorrect flow target temperature from external regulator.
D.10Status internal heating pump errorError with the internal heating pump status.
D.11Status external heating pump errorError with the external heating pump status.
D.12Cylinder charging pump via accessory moduleIssue with the cylinder charging pump.
D.13Hot water circulation pumpProblem with the hot water circulation pump.

10. Vaillant Error Codes F28 and F29

If your Vaillant boiler is showing either error code F28 or F29, then the condensate pipe has frozen and needs to be thawed.

This issue can occur during the colder months as the pipe runs outside but can be resolved fairly easily without the need for an engineer, as the pipe just needs to be thawed out.

How do you clear faults on a Vaillant boiler?

Clearing faults on a Vaillant boiler depends on the specific error code or issue. In many cases, a simple reset can clear minor faults like a temporary pressure drop or ignition failure. To clear a fault code on a Vaillant boiler, locate the reset button on the boiler's control panel, which usually looks like a flame with a line through it, and press and hold it for a few seconds until the error code disappears.

Before resetting, it’s worth checking a couple of things:

  • Boiler pressure: If your boiler pressure is too low (below 1 bar), you may need to top it up using the filling loop.
  • Gas and power supply: Ensure your gas supply is working (try other gas appliances) and that there are no electrical issues, such as a tripped fuse.

If you’ve checked these and the fault persists after resetting, it’s best to contact a Gas Safe registered engineer. Repeatedly resetting your boiler without addressing the underlying issue can cause further damage.

Which is the reset button on a Vaillant boiler?

The reset button on a Vaillant boiler is usually located on the front panel and marked with a flame symbol and a line through it or simply labelled “RESET.” On most models, it’s a small button that you need to press and hold for a few seconds (typically 3-5 seconds) to initiate a reset. If you’re unsure where it is on your specific model, check your boiler’s manual or look for a button near the display screen. Once pressed, your boiler should attempt to restart. If the fault continues, there may be an issue that needs professional attention.

FAQs about Vaillant boiler error codes

Is it safe to reset a Vaillant boiler?

Yes, resetting a Vaillant boiler is generally safe as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If your boiler has locked out due to a minor issue - like a temporary pressure drop or a power cut - a reset can often get it running again. However, if your boiler keeps locking out or displaying an error code, it could indicate a deeper issue. In that case, it’s best to call a Gas Safe registered engineer rather than repeatedly resetting it.

What does the flashing flame symbol mean on a Vaillant boiler?

The flashing flame symbol on a Vaillant boiler usually means the burner is in operation, which is normal when your heating or hot water is on. However, if the flame symbol is flashing and your boiler isn’t providing heat or hot water, it could point to an ignition fault, gas supply issue, or another problem. Checking the pressure gauge and error codes can help pinpoint the issue - if in doubt, a professional should take a look.

Why is my Vaillant boiler giving me hot water but no heating?

If your Vaillant boiler is providing hot water but not heating your home, the issue could be with the thermostat, diverter valve, or system pressure. For common causes and simple fixes for this issue, read our guide: Hot water but no heating? Here's what to do.

When to call a professional

Some boiler problems can be solved with a few simple checks, but anything involving the gas supply, the inside of the boiler, or a fault that keeps coming back needs a Gas Safe registered engineer. Never remove the boiler casing or attempt internal repairs yourself.

JustFix engineers can diagnose the fault, explain what's needed and what it'll cost before any work starts, and get your heating and hot water back up and running. All our work is backed by our 12-month workmanship guarantee.

Need a hand? Tell us what's going on and we'll take it from there.

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