How Do I Reset My Boiler?
Is your boiler displaying an error code or refusing to work? A simple reset might solve the problem. While it sounds technical, resetting your boiler is usually straightforward - though it's important to understand when and how to do it safely.
When to Reset Your Boiler
Before reaching for the reset button, understand why your boiler needs resetting. The most common scenario is a boiler lockout, which is a safety feature designed to prevent the boiler from operating when it detects a potential problem. Boiler lockouts can occur due to various issues, including ignition failures, overheating, or low water pressure.
Power cuts can also trigger the need for a reset. When power is restored after an outage, your boiler may require a manual reset to resume normal operation. This is particularly true for older models that lack automatic restart capabilities.
Error codes displayed on the boiler's control panel are another clear indicator that a reset might be necessary. These codes provide valuable information about the specific issue your boiler is experiencing.
How To Reset A Boiler
Finding Your Reset Button
Most modern boilers have a reset button marked clearly with either 'RESET' or a flame symbol. It's typically located on the front panel, though locations vary between manufacturers. Consult your boiler's manual if you're struggling to find it - each model is slightly different.
The Reset Process
Turn off your boiler using its main power switch and wait for about three minutes. This cooling-off period is crucial. Next, press and hold the reset button for 5-10 seconds until you hear a click or see the display change. Your boiler should now begin its ignition sequence.
If your boiler hasn't successfully reset after two attempts, don't keep trying. Multiple reset attempts could damage your system or indicate a more serious underlying issue.
Sometimes a reset alone won't solve the problem. Low pressure needs repressurising rather than resetting. For frozen condensate pipes, carefully thaw them using warm (not boiling) water. If you smell gas or notice unusual noises, don't attempt a reset - call a Gas Safe registered engineer immediately.
How to Reset a Baxi Boiler
For Baxi boilers, locate the reset button (usually marked with a flame or 'reset'). Press and hold for 5-10 seconds until you hear a click. Their Duo-tec range needs you to press the reset button twice. If you see 'SE' on the display, this means you need to reset.
How to Reset an Ideal Boiler
On Ideal boilers, look for the reset button marked with a flame symbol. Hold it for 5 seconds until you see the flame symbol flash on the display. For the Logic range, press the mode dial until 'reset' appears, then press and hold. Their newer models might need you to press 'mode' and 'enter' simultaneously.
How to Reset a Vaillant Boiler
Vaillant boilers typically need you to press and hold the reset button (marked with a flame) for 10 seconds. For ecoTEC models, wait for an error code to appear, then press the reset button once. Some models have a reset option within their digital menu system.
How to Reset a Worcester Bosch Boiler
Most Worcester Bosch boilers have a reset button marked with a flame symbol. Press and hold this for 3 seconds. For their Greenstar range, press the reset button once - it's usually below the display panel. If you see a spanner symbol with the number 7, this indicates you need a reset.
Professional Heating Engineers West Sussex
We offer boiler services throughout West Sussex, including Billingshurst, Storrington, Pulborough and Horsham. For expert advice on your boiler, please get in touch by calling us on 01903 740538.
