When your heating system fails, knowing how to properly reset your boiler becomes an essential household skill. Whether you're dealing with a sudden breakdown or recurring issues, a boiler reset can often restore your heating and hot water without the immediate need for professional intervention. However, while this procedure might seem straightforward, it's crucial to understand both when and how to perform a reset safely.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the reset process, helping you distinguish between situations that warrant a simple reset and those that require professional attention. For more information, get in touch with us by calling us on 07875 344794. Our heating engineers in Northampton, Brackley and Milton Keynes are here to help every step of the way.
Boiler Lockout
Boiler lockout is a safety feature designed to prevent damage to your heating system and ensure your safety. When a boiler detects a potential issue, it automatically shuts down and enters a lockout state. Common reasons for boiler lockout include:
- Water Pressure Issues
- Heat Exchanger Blockage
- Ignition Failures
- Error Codes
Boiler Reset Guide: Expert Steps to Restart Your System
Safety First
Important: If you smell gas, do NOT attempt to reset your boiler. Leave the property immediately and contact your gas emergency service.
Pre-Reset Checks
Before attempting a boiler reset, verify that your unit is genuinely locked out (typically indicated by a red light or error code) rather than experiencing other issues. Check that your boiler is receiving power by inspecting the fuse box for tripped switches or blown fuses, and confirm the pressure gauge reads between 1 and 2 bar (usually marked as the green zone on the dial). Low or high pressure should be addressed before attempting a reset.
General Reset Steps
Finding the Reset Button
Your boiler's reset button is typically marked in red or clearly labelled "RESET" on the front control panel. If you're having trouble locating it, consult your boiler's manual or look for a manufacturer's label that might show its position.
The Reset Process
Once you've located the reset button, press and hold it for approximately 10 seconds. You may notice lights flashing or hear a beep - this is normal and indicates the reset is in progress. Different models might require slightly different hold times, so pay attention to any response from your unit.
After the Reset
Give your boiler several minutes to complete its restart sequence. During this time, you should hear the ignition process begin and notice your error code clear from the display. If the boiler doesn't respond or quickly returns to a lockout state, this suggests a more complex issue that needs professional attention.
Model-Specific Reset Instructions
Worcester Bosch Boiler
Press and hold the reset button for 3 seconds. Alternatively, turn the thermostat dial to the reset light position and hold for 3 seconds.
Vaillant Boiler
Press the reset button beneath the display for one second.
Baxi Boiler
Press and hold the reset button until the red light turns off. Some models may require using the ON/OFF/SELECTOR switch for resetting.
Vokera Boiler
Move the mode selector switch to the 'OFF/RESET' position, then return it to the normal setting.
Glow-worm Boiler
Press the reset button and wait for 5 seconds.
When the Boiler Reset Doesn't Work
If your initial reset attempt fails, don't keep trying repeatedly - this rarely solves the problem and might cause additional issues. Instead, perform these quick checks:
- Verify that all radiator valves are fully open
- Double-check your boiler's pressure reading
- Consult your manual for specific error code meanings
- Look for any obvious issues like frozen condensate pipes in winter
It's important to contact a Gas Safe registered engineer to diagnose and resolve the problem. They have the expertise and tools to identify complex issues that may not be apparent to the untrained eye.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I need to reset my boiler?
Ideally, you shouldn't need to reset your boiler frequently. If you're resetting more than once or twice a year, it's likely indicative of an underlying issue that requires professional attention.
Can resetting the boiler damage it?
When done correctly, resetting your boiler shouldn't cause damage. However, repeatedly resetting without addressing the root cause can potentially lead to more serious issues over time.
Is it safe to reset my boiler if there's a strong gas smell?
No. If you smell gas, do not attempt to reset or operate your boiler. Immediately turn off the gas supply, open windows, evacuate the premises, and contact your gas provider's emergency line.
How long should I wait between reset attempts?
Wait at least 5-10 minutes between reset attempts. If the boiler fails to start after three attempts, cease further resets and contact a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Will resetting my boiler clear all error codes?
Not necessarily. While resetting can clear some temporary faults, persistent error codes often indicate more serious issues that require professional diagnosis and repair.
