Blog>Expert Advice>Baxi boiler problems and how to fix them
Last updated: 18 October 2024
Baxi boiler problems and how to fix them
Is your boiler not working properly? There are several common Baxi boiler problems that can be easily fixed - if you know what to do, that is. Let us help you find out why your boiler isn't working and get your heating back up and running again.
Baxi boilers are hot water and heating systems manufactured here in the UK. These boilers are compact and energy efficient and offer reliable long-term performance. That being said, there are some Baxi boiler problems to be aware of.
Baxi boiler troubleshooting
Creating heating and hot water for your home is a complex process. It is no surprise that boilers malfunction from time to time. Fortunately, Baxi boilers display error codes on the control panel to make finding the cause of the problem easier.
Check your boiler's control panel if you're having issues with your home's heating or hot water. Most common Baxi boiler problems will trigger an error code message.
Common Baxi boiler problems and their error codes
Ignition failure: E133 or 3 red flashes
Frozen condensate pipe: E28
Leaking water: H.02 - .06
No hot water: E133 E54 E50
Broken burner: 128
Low pressure: Pressure dial under 1 bar
Not all error codes have been listed above but these are the most common problems associated with Baxi boilers. We recommend checking your boiler's manual if an error code you don't recognise appears on the control panel.
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Common Baxi boiler problems
It is not uncommon for boilers to experience occasional faults. Just like other manufacturers, Baxi boilers can malfunction and leave you with no hot water or heating.
Let's take a closer look at the common Baxi boiler faults and explore what may be causing them.
1. Baxi boiler leaking water
Leaks are typically caused by damaged components inside the unit. In most cases, a broken pump seal or damaged pressure valve will be the source of the leak.
A leaking pressure valve is a sign that the boiler pressure is too high. In comparison, a leak from the pump seal usually indicates that the component is worn and needs to be replaced.
Fixing a leak is a job for the experts. However, it is a good idea to shut off the water supply to your boiler while you wait for assistance.
2. Low pressure
Boilers need to maintain adequate pressure levels to work safely and efficiently. Over time pressure can drop and cause problems with your heating and hot water systems.
Normal pressure for a Baxi boiler is between 1.0 and 2.0. The boiler will need to be repressurised if the needle drops below 1.0.
A sudden drop in pressure is not normal and needs to be addressed as soon as possible. A significant drop in pressure is often due to a leak somewhere in the system.
Contact a gas engineer as soon as possible if you suspect there is a leak in your gas boiler. Gas leaks can be fatal. A water leak in the system may not be as dangerous but must still be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
3. Frozen condensate pipe
Your Baxi boiler's condensate pipe transports acidic water from the boiler to an external drain. Due to its exterior position, it is not uncommon for condensate pipes to freeze during the winter months.
Wastewater is unable to drain away if the condensate pipe is frozen over. This problem will need to be repaired quickly to get your system up and running again without any lasting damage.
4. Ignition failure
Is your Baxi boiler not firing up? Various problems can result in boiler ignition failure and a system 'lock out'. You will be 'locked out' of your Baxi boiler if there is a fault that could cause boiler damage and complete system failure.
Common reasons why a boiler won't fire and their error codes:
System overheating: 110
Flue overheating: E131
Fan fault: 160
Issue with printed circuit board: E168
Gas supply issues can also prevent a Baxi boiler from igniting. A faulty gas valve or damaged electrodes and ignition leads could also be to blame.
5. Broken burner
A boiler's burner plays an essential role in the heating system. This component generates the heat needed to warm the water in the heat exchanger.
Your boiler will make a loud banging sound if the burner is damaged. Broken burners are more common in older Baxi boiler models.
6. No hot water
Are your taps running cold? If so, a faulty diverter valve in your boiler could be to blame. This valve opens when you turn on a tap and allows water into the heat exchanger. Your water will run cold if this vital component is worn or damaged.
Natural corrosion inside the system can cause the diverter valve to malfunction. As well as seeing the error codes, you will also notice that your heating is still working. A faulty diverter valve will stop hot water from reaching your taps but your radiators will still work.
7. Baxi boiler: heating not working
Conversely, some homeowners face the problem of no heating, but still getting hot water from their Baxi boiler. So they're able to enjoy a nice warm bath but the radiators are ice cold. This is likely down to a fault with the diverter valve or low water pressure.
The boiler will need to be repressurised if the pressure needle is pointing below 1.0. Check your boiler user manual if you are unsure how to top up the pressure.
To replace a faulty diverter valve, you'll need to hire an experienced boiler engineer.
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Quick fixes for Baxi combi boiler problems
With any luck, your Baxi boiler just needs to be either reignited or repressurised to function normally again. Here's how:
How to reignite a Baxi boiler
Resetting your Baxi boiler may be all that is needed to get the system firing again. The system will need to be reset if you have been 'locked out', indicated by a red 'lockout light'.
Follow these steps to reset your boiler:
Locate the reset button on the front control panel
Press and hold for 3 - 5 seconds
The red light should turn off
You should hear the system 'fire up'
Run the hot tap to check the reset has worked
Avoid resetting your boiler every time an error code appears. There is a problem that needs to be addressed if you keep getting 'locked out'. You will need to hire a Gas Safe engineer to come and diagnose the issue and perform the necessary boiler repairs.
How to reset the pressure on a Baxi boiler
You will need to repressurise the boiler if the pressure has dropped below 1.0. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines to top up the pressure or read our expert guide. A boiler engineer can repressurise the system if you're unsure about doing it yourself.
We recommend contacting a gas engineer as soon as possible if you notice a sudden and significant drop in your boiler's pressure.
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Boiler repair costs
The following factors will determine the cost of professional boiler repairs:
Type of boiler
Repairs needed
Replacement parts needed
Warranty and insurance
Your location - tradespeople charge varying rates across the UK
Professionals charge£200 - £425 to repair most common boiler faults. If you have a gas Baxi boiler, you can expect to pay a gas engineer an average hourly rate of£65 + repairs & parts. Emergency boiler repairs cost £450, on average.
Read our boiler repair cost guide to learn more about current prices.
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Key takeaways
Baxi boiler problems include leaking, low pressure, frozen condensate pipes, and hot water issues
Many problems will trigger an error code to be displayed on the control panel
A qualified engineer will be needed to fix most boiler problems
It costs an average of £200 - £425 to repair common boiler faults
Find a qualified and approved engineer near you
A qualified Gas Safe registered engineer will be able to address the problem with your Baxi boiler safely and efficiently.
Enter your postcode, below, to find boiler engineers that we've checked and approved in your area.
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FAQs
What is the lifespan of a Baxi boiler?
The typical lifespan of a Baxi boiler is 10 - 15 years.
The longevity of your boiler will be impacted by how well the unit is maintained. Your boiler will offer better long-term performance if you have it annually serviced by an engineer. Use our trusted directory to find reputable boiler servicing near you.
Where is the reset button on a Baxi boiler?
The Baxi boiler reset button can typically be found somewhere on the front control panel.
The appearance of the button can vary between different boiler models. Baxi boilers can have a green reset button, a button with the power symbol and an 'R'; or a large button with the word RESET on it.
Some boiler models don't have a specific reset button. Instead, the reset function can be activated by turning the control dial to the 'reset' position.
How to fix a frozen condensate pipe
Fixing a frozen condensate pipe is fairly straightforward. All you need to do is pour warm water over the pipes until they thaw out. You can also try placing a hot water bottle, heat pad or cloths soaked in hot water over the pipe.
The condensate pipe can be found at the back of the boiler and runs outside to an exterior drain.
Repairing and replacing damaged parts
Error codes linked to damaged or faulty parts need to be addressed by a professional. Boilers use several components to generate heat for your home and attempting a DIY repair can be dangerous.
Whether it is a worn pump seal or damaged diverter valve, contact an experienced engineer to fix the problem.
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