Error E130

Safety first:

1) If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide (CO) do not use the boiler. Turn off the gas supply at the meter if safe to do so, turn off the boiler, open windows, evacuate the property and call the emergency gas number and a Gas Safe engineer. Ensure a working CO alarm is fitted and active.

2) Do not remove covers, access panels or attempt internal repairs unless you are a qualified engineer. Flue, gas and electrical work must be done by a registered professional.

Initial homeowner checks (safe, non-invasive):

1) Note any other fault codes and when the fault happened (date/time, weather conditions). Take a photo of the display and of the flue terminal outside.

2) Check the flue terminal outside for obvious blockages or damage: bird nests, leaves, soot build-up, nearby scaffolding, snow or other debris obstructing the terminal. Remove loose external obstructions if safe to reach (do not climb or lean out of windows dangerously).

3) Ensure vents and air inlets around the boiler and inside the property are not blocked.

4) Check boiler display and try a standard reset: switch off the boiler power at the isolator for 30–60 seconds, switch back on, and press the boiler reset button according to the user manual (usually press and hold for a few seconds). If the code clears and the boiler runs normally, monitor closely for recurrence.

5) Listen for abnormal fan noise when the boiler attempts to start (if audible). Check other appliances using gas to confirm gas supply is present (e.g. gas hob). Do not attempt to access gas valves or internals.

6) Check system water pressure (if code list shows low pressure as separate code) and ensure the boiler has normal operating pressure (typically around 1–1.5 bar cold for many domestic systems). Repressurise only following the manufacturer instructions; do not over-pressurise.

If the error remains or returns after reset, do not continue to attempt repairs yourself. Suggested diagnostic steps for a qualified engineer (for information only):

1) Engineer will verify flue terminal condition and use flue gas analyser/visual inspection to confirm correct combustion and exhaust.

2) Check continuity and resistance of the flue thermostat/thermistor and compare against expected NTC values. Replace sensor if out of tolerance.

3) Inspect wiring and connectors between the flue sensor and the PCB for loose connections, corrosion or damage. Repair or re-terminate as required.

4) Check fan operation and airflow. A failing fan or blocked condensate/drain paths can indirectly cause abnormal flue temperatures. Replace fan if faulty.

5) Inspect for flue obstructions (externally and in any accessible sections) and clear as necessary. If the flue is a concentric/terminal type, confirm there is no internal blockage.

6) Check PCB for fault codes, sensor input behaviour and any logged lockouts. Test other related sensors (DHW/CH sensors) if the fault pattern suggests wider issues.

7) After repairs, engineer will clear the lockout, run combustion tests and confirm safe operation before leaving.

When to call a professional:

1) Call a Gas Safe registered engineer if the E130 error persists, if you cannot locate an obvious external blockage, if the flue terminal appears damaged, or if any wiring/board/sensor work is required.

2) Call immediately if you detect any sign of poor combustion (soot, black residue, persistent smells), CO alarm activation, or if multiple fault codes appear.

Record keeping and follow-up:

1) Record the date/time of the fault, any steps you took, and any photos. Provide this information to the engineer to help diagnosis.

2) After an engineer has repaired the boiler, ask for confirmation of the work done, parts replaced (if any) and any recommended follow-up or servicing intervals.

Remember: E130 is a safety lockout due to flue overheat/sensor trip. Basic external checks and a reset are fine for a homeowner, but do not attempt internal electrical, gas, flue or sensor repairs yourself. A registered gas engineer should carry out all diagnostic testing and repairs if the fault persists or if you are in any doubt.