Error E161

Safety precautions:

- If the boiler has locked out, do not try to bypass safety interlocks. Turn the boiler off at the isolation switch or the fused spur and switch off the gas supply at the meter isolation if you know how and it is safe to do so.

- Do not open the boiler casing unless you are a qualified engineer. Internal components are live and there are gas and electrical hazards.

- If you smell gas, evacuate the property, turn off the gas at the meter if safe, and call the gas emergency number immediately.

Initial homeowner checks (safe, non-invasive):

1. Note the code and any other messages or lights. Take a photo of the display for the engineer.

2. Try a basic reset: switch the boiler off, isolate power at the mains for 30 seconds, then restore power and attempt to restart following the manufacturer’s reset procedure. Note if the error returns immediately or after some time.

3. Check the mains power supply and house fuses. Confirm other electrical items on the same circuit are working.

4. Inspect the external flue terminal from the outside (ground level only, from a safe stable position). Look for obvious blockages such as bird nests, debris, or heavy snow/ice and clear only if it is safe to do so. Do not climb or lean dangerously to inspect.

5. Ensure the area around the boiler and the flue terminal has not been obstructed by new building work or insulation.

Specific diagnostic steps and what they indicate (for information or to tell the engineer):

1. If reset temporarily clears the fault but it returns, note when it happens (at startup, during firing, intermittently). Intermittent faults often indicate failing motor, loose wiring, or marginal voltage.

2. If the fan makes unusual noises (grinding, squealing) before failure, this points to a failing fan motor or bearing problem.

3. If there was recent power interruption or lightning, note this—transient electrical events can damage PCBs and sensors.

4. If you have multiple fault codes or symptoms (e.g., low voltage warnings, circulation faults), record them; multiple codes can indicate a PCB or wiring issue rather than the fan alone.

What a competent engineer will do (do not attempt unless qualified):

- Visually and electrically test the fan motor, rotor, and wiring connections; measure supply voltage to the fan and continuity of connectors.

- Check the air pressure switch and its tubing/connection for blockages or failure; verify the switch closes when the fan runs.

- Inspect flue path and terminals for obstructions and measure flue gas flow/pressure as required.

- Check for wiring faults between the fan and PCB and test the PCB outputs/drivers for the fan. Replace PCB if necessary and confirmed faulty.

- Replace the fan assembly if motor or bearings are faulty, and re-test the system for correct operation and any correlated faults.

When to call a professional:

- If a basic reset does not clear E161, or if the fault returns, arrange immediate repair by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Fan replacement, air pressure switch testing, PCB replacement, and any work inside the boiler must be carried out by a qualified engineer.

- If you are unsure about any inspection or find loose/burnt wiring, do not touch; isolate power and call an engineer.

Practical homeowner actions to prepare for the engineer:

- Record model and serial number, the exact error code (E161), and any other fault codes or symptoms.

- Take photos of the boiler display and the flue terminal.

- Note whether the fault happened during a storm, after a power cut, or during heavy use.

Final note:

- A fan fault is not normally a simple DIY repair. While you can perform safe external checks and a reset, do not attempt internal electrical or gas repairs. Call a Gas Safe registered heating engineer to diagnose and fix E161 to ensure safe and correct repair.