Potterton Boiler Faults

Top 5 Potterton Boiler Problems

Low Boiler Pressure (E119 Fault Code)

Low boiler pressure is one of the most common issues for Potterton models and can stop your boiler from working altogether.

• Leaks in your system, such as piping or radiator pinholes
• Faulty seals leading to gradual pressure loss
• Over time, a natural drop in pressure occurs

You can resolve low boiler pressure by repressurising your boiler. Start by referring to your boiler manual for instructions specific to your model. Generally, you'll use the filling loop to add water until the pressure gauge needle points to the green zone around 1.5 bar. Once done, restart your boiler.

While this quick fix might resolve immediate issues, it's vital to address the underlying cause, like leaks. For significant problems, book a Gas Safe Engineer for a professional boiler repair service.

No Hot Water

No hot water coming from your taps or shower is another common frustration. The main culprit? A faulty diverter valve.

The diverter valve directs hot water between your central heating and taps/showers. Over time, it can wear out or become stuck, resulting in lukewarm or no hot water.

While you can visually inspect components like the diverter valve if you're qualified, most homeowners will need professional assistance to resolve this issue. A malfunctioning valve is costly to replace, so weigh the cost of repairs against investing in a new, energy-efficient boiler.

Frozen Condensate Pipe (E133 Fault Code)

When winter temperatures in London plummet, it's not unusual for the condensate pipe in your Potterton boiler to freeze. This pipe removes excess acidic waste from your boiler. If blocked by ice, your boiler will stop and display the E133 error code.

The easiest solution for your frozen condensate pipe is to carefully thaw the pipe using warm water, a hot water bottle, or even a hairdryer. Once the blockage clears, reset your boiler and monitor its performance.

To prevent reoccurrence, you can have the condensate pipe insulated or relocated indoors where it's less likely to freeze.

Radiators Not Heating Evenly

Cold spots on radiators are a clear sign of air or sludge buildup in your heating system. Radiators may feel warm at the bottom but cold at the top when there is excess air or debris, such as metallic sludge, clogging the system.

• Air is trapped in the radiator.
• Sludge buildup is blocking water circulation.

Try bleeding your radiators to remove trapped air and restore heat distribution. Turn off your heating, grab a radiator key, and slowly release air until water starts to drip. Don't forget to repressurise your boiler afterwards.

If the issue persists, your system might need a professional powerflush to remove sludge and debris.

Boiler Locking Out or Turning Off

Your Potterton boiler might turn off or "lock out" as a safety precaution if it detects a fault. This could be due to overheating, poor water circulation, or even a failed PCB (Printed Circuit Board).

A lockout should not be ignored, as it often indicates a serious issue. Don't repeatedly attempt to restart your boiler. Instead, call a gas safe engineer to diagnose and repair the root cause.

Potterton Boiler Fault Codes Explained

Error codes or problems with Potterton boilers give homeowners a starting point for identifying boiler issues.

Here's a quick guide to some common Potterton boiler error codes and their meanings:

If you're unsure how to proceed with an error code, consult your manual or enlist professional advice.

When to Replace Your Potterton Boiler?

Sometimes, repairs are too costly or frequent to justify. If your Potterton boiler is older or no longer under warranty, here's why installing a new boiler might be the best decision.

Benefits of a New Boiler

• Longer Warranty
  New models often come with warranties of up to 10 years, giving you peace of mind.
• Energy Efficiency
  Modern boilers use less energy, helping you reduce your bills while minimising your environmental impact.
• Fewer Repairs
  An upgraded boiler means fewer breakdowns and more reliable heating during winter. Get a no-obligation quote for a boiler replacement and enjoy improved efficiency in no time.

Take the Next Step For Boiler Maintenance

Boilers are an essential part of every home, especially during London's chilly winters. Regular maintenance, proper boiler care, and knowing when to call a professional can help keep your Potterton boiler running smoothly. If you're experiencing persistent issues or your boiler is over a decade old, why not upgrade and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a new, efficient model?

Need Help?

Our gas and heating engineers here at Serviceteam are just a call away. Whether you need repairs, diagnostics, or an entirely new boiler, we've got you covered.

Book your appointment online today and join thousands of satisfied homeowners across London.

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

If your Potterton boiler isn't firing up, it might be because there's no gas getting to it, something's wrong with the ignition, or there's a blockage somewhere in the system. First, make sure the gas supply is on. Then, take a look at the display panel; if there's a fault code showing, it can help you figure out what's going wrong.

There are a few common reasons for this. It could be low water pressure, a faulty thermostat, poor water circulation caused by air in the system, a closed valve, or a faulty pump. In some cases, dirt or sludge buildup inside the system can also cause issues; a chemical clean or system flush can help fix that. If you're unsure, it's best to get a heating engineer to take a look.

This could be due to a faulty thermostat, a broken diverter valve, or a blocked heat exchanger, and it may not display any error codes. A professional inspection is recommended.

If your Potterton Assure Heat boiler displays three red lights flashing and then pauses, it typically indicates a problem with the ignition. In most cases, it is likely due to a gas supply issue; the boiler isn't receiving the necessary gas to start up properly.

Look for the reset button; it's often red and easy to find. Press it down and hold for around 10 seconds. You might hear a click as it tries to restart. Once you let go, give the boiler a moment. It should try to fire up again on its own. If it doesn't start after a couple of tries, it's best to call a professional.