Have you noticed the F2 Fault Code flashing up on your Ideal Boiler? If so, we’ll guide you through every process, including what F2 means, what is causing the problem and steps involved in fixing the issue.
What Does F2 Mean On A Boiler?
If the fault code F2 is flashing on your Ideal Boiler, there could be a variety of reasons for this, suffice to say it represents a problem with your boiler that needs addressing – and that problem is flame loss.
Some fixes may be more invasive than others, therefore it’s important to understand the meaning of the error before you go ahead and fix it yourself, as more than likely it will require the assistance of a qualified gas engineer.
Causes of an F2 Fault Code
To help you determine the issue, here are some of the most common reasons why an Ideal boiler F2 fault code flashes up
1. Gas Valve
The most common reason for an F2 fault code on an Ideal boiler is that there’s an issue with the gas valve, and in particular, that the valve is stuck.
The first thing a boiler engineer will do is check to see if it’s stuck by rotating it; if the gas valve is unable to rotate then it will not be able to supply fuel to the burner and the pilot jet, which is required to maintain the flame. Once the flame goes out, the F2 error code will flash up.
So, How Do You Fix Flame Loss on a Boiler?
In some instances, the gas engineer may be able to repair the stuck gas valve. However, if they are unable to do this, you will need to pay for a replacement gas valve which typically costs around £300 to install.
2. Gas Pressure
Another cause of an F2 fault code is low gas pressure. If the gas pressure on your boiler is too low, this can cause the flame to go out, which as mentioned, will trigger the F2 fault code on your Ideal Boiler.
To determine the gas pressure issue, you should hire a qualified gas engineer. They will be able to pinpoint the problem by testing the pressure into the gas meter from the mains gas, then out of the meter and back into it. The problem could be caused by the mains gas, which will affect the rest of your gas appliance, and will require the assistance of your gas company.
If it isn’t the mains gas, then it could be an issue with the meter’s regulator, especially if the F2 fault code flashes up during the winter months, as the regulator may be frozen. This will restrict the gas flow and will force the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) to command the boiler to enter an automatic safety lockout mode
How is an Ignition Lockout on an Ideal Boiler Fixed?
If your boiler enters lockout mode, an engineer will assess the problem and will most likely reset the boiler. To prevent future freezing, they may be able to install insulating material around the regulator to protect it.
3. Flue
If you have a flue without a solid airway, there’s nowhere for the flue gases to escape through. This will force the boiler to extinguish the flame, resulting in the Ideal Boiler F2 fault code. This normally occurs if you have a vertical flue through the roof without a flue guard. Without a flue guard, this makes your flue vulnerable to blockages caused by a buildup of debris within the flue.
To determine whether your flue is blocked, you can hire an engineer to check the gas valve, the fan and flue in order to determine the issue.
The Fix?
If it is blocked, the engineer may be able to unblock it and install a flue guard to prevent future blockages.
4. Fan
The main purpose of a boiler fan is to push out any harmful gases out of the flue pipe to prevent them from building up in your home. However, if the fan is faulty, then it will not expel unwanted gases like it normally would.
This is so dangerous that the boiler will not fire up if the fan is not working. The F2 fault code will flash up if the fan stops working, as the boiler will automatically turn off and flame will go out.
How is the Fan Fixed?
If you believe there is a problem with your boiler fan, you should call in a professional to check your fan and make the necessary repairs or replacement if required.
How to Reset an Ideal Boiler
As mentioned above, you may be able to fix an Ideal Boiler F2 fault code by resetting the boiler. To do this, you should follow these steps which can also be found in this video:
- The first thing you need to do is turn the mode control knob to reset the position and allow it to turn back to its original settings.
- Once you’ve turned the mode control knob, the boiler will repeat the ignition sequence.
- If you have followed all the steps correctly and the boiler still fails to light and the F2 error code continues to flash up, you should call in a qualified gas engineer immediately.
How Could I Prevent Ideal Fault Code F2?
To prevent the Ideal fault code F2 from flashing up, you should try to have your boiler professionally serviced at least once a year. This will ensure that any issues are dealt with and will also make sure that no issues occur throughout the year.
What Could Happen if I Ignore Ideal Fault Code F2?
If you choose to ignore the F2 fault code, you will be unable to use your boiler as it will automatically lock itself, which means the flame will not work, rendering it completely useless. Instead of ignoring the fault code, you need to address the problem straight away to prevent any future problems.
Hire a Professional to Fix Your Ideal Boiler F2 Fault Code
If your Ideal boiler cannot be fixed with a simple reset, then it’s important that you get in contact with one of our qualified gas engineers, who will quickly determine the issue and make the necessary repairs in no time at all.
Get in touch today to book an appointment.
Eddie Scoffin
Boiler Choice Director & Founder
This blog was written in collaboration with Eddie Scoffin, the founder of Boiler Choice. Eddie has been installing boilers for over a decade. With a passion for excellence and customer satisfaction, Eddie’s leadership and expertise have been instrumental in the success of Boiler Choice. His commitment to making the boiler installation process hassle-free for customers has earned him a respected reputation in the industry.
Updated on April 28, 2023
