Got fault code 227 flashing on your Worcester Bosch boiler? It’s a common fault that can often be sorted out without too much hassle.
Quick answer: Fault code 227 / EA 227 means your Worcester Bosch boiler tried to ignite but couldn’t prove a flame, so it’s gone into ignition lockout for safety.
This guide explains what the 227 error code means, what’s likely causing it, and what you can do about it - safely.
We’ll also cover when to step back and call a Gas Safe engineer (because “DIY gas work” is a fast track to regret).
Safety first - but yes, we’ll still try to get your boiler running again.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Fault code 227 / EA 227 means ignition lockout (the boiler can’t detect a flame after trying to light).
Common causes include gas supply issues, a frozen/blocked condensate pipe, or worn ignition/flame-sensing components.
A reset can fix a one-off glitch - but repeated lockouts usually mean a component or supply problem.
Engineer checks may include the ignition electrode, flame sensor/ionisation probe, gas valve, flue/air issues, or PCB.
If faults are frequent and the boiler is 10+ years old, replacement can be the smarter money move.
Get a new boiler quote (finance available, including 0% APR)
Try this first (2-minute checklist)
Do these in order - they’re safe and they rule out the most common causes quickly:
1. Check other gas appliances
Turn on your hob/cooker. If that isn’t working, your boiler probably isn’t the problem - it’s the gas supply or meter.
2. If you’re on a prepay meter, check credit + meter status
Sounds obvious. Still catches people out weekly.
3. If it’s freezing outside: check your condensate pipe
A frozen condensate pipe can stop the boiler firing safely. (More on this below.)
4. Reset the boiler once
If it comes back repeatedly, stop resetting and move to “When to call an engineer”.
What Does Worcester Boiler Fault Code 227 Mean?
Fault code 227 means your Worcester Bosch boiler has failed to ignite.
In plain English: it tried to light the burner, couldn’t detect a flame (often described as no flame / no ionisation after ignition), then shut down as a safety precaution. That’s the “lockout”.
“Fault 227 usually boils down to ignition failure. A reset can sometimes clear it, but if your boiler keeps cutting out, it’s worth having a Gas Safe engineer take a look - or even consider a replacement if it’s an older model.” - Patrick Garner, Gas Safe Engineer
Common symptoms you’ll notice:
If your boiler is showing fault 227 / EA 227, you’ll often see:
No heating and/or no hot water
Boiler tries to fire up, then stops (sometimes more than once)
Fault code returns after a reset
Lockout light/icon showing on the display
Possible Causes of Fault Code 227
Several issues could be preventing your boiler from igniting:
Low or no gas pressure - If the gas supply is weak or disrupted, ignition will fail. This could stem from a meter fault, low mains pressure, or even an issue with your gas provider.
Blocked or frozen condensate pipe - In cold weather, this pipe can freeze or clog, stopping the boiler from firing up safely.
Faulty ignition electrode or flame sensor – If these components are worn, dirty, or misaligned, the boiler can’t spark or detect a flame.
Gas valve malfunction - A stuck or faulty gas valve may block the gas flow, preventing ignition.
PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fault - If the boiler’s control board is failing, it might not send or interpret signals correctly, leading to a lockout.
Causes that need a Gas Safe engineer
These are common culprits - but they’re not DIY territory:
Ignition electrode fault (no spark / weak ignition)
Flame sensor / ionisation probe issue (flame exists but boiler can’t “see” it)
Gas valve malfunction (gas not reaching burner correctly)
Flue / air supply problems (combustion/airflow issues can prevent ignition)
PCB fault (control board not sending/reading signals properly)Can I Fix It Myself?
Can I fix it myself?
Tempted to have a go? Fair. But keep it within safe limits.
✅ Safe things you can do
1) Reset the boiler
Most Worcester Bosch boilers have a reset button or reset option in the display menu.
Press/hold reset for a few seconds (or use the on-screen reset prompt)
Wait for the restart cycle to complete
If the fault returns more than once, don’t keep hammering reset — you’ll just mask the real issue.
2) Check / thaw a frozen condensate pipe (if it’s cold)
If the pipe is frozen, thawing it can genuinely bring the boiler back to life.
How to thaw it safely:
Locate the condensate pipe (often plastic, running outside to a drain)
Check for ice around bends or at the end
Pour warm (not boiling) water over the frozen section
Use a hot water bottle or warm cloth if needed
Once thawed, reset the boiler once
Avoid: boiling water (can damage plastic), DIY “gas fixes”, opening the case, touching wiring.
Anything involving gas or electrics = Gas Safe engineer. UK law says so, and your eyebrows will thank you.
When to Call a Gas Safe Engineer
If a reset doesn’t solve the problem - or the fault keeps coming back - it’s time to bring in a professional.
A Gas Safe registered engineer can safely diagnose and fix issues such as:
Checking or replacing ignition electrodes and flame sensors
Inspecting the gas valve for faults or blockages
Testing the PCB and replacing it if necessary
Measuring gas pressure and resolving supply problems
You can find a qualified engineer through the Gas Safe Register.
Repeated lockouts are a warning sign - they usually mean something deeper needs attention. Don’t ignore it.
How much does it cost to fix Worcester Bosch fault code 227?
Typical repair costs are usually £150–£400, depending on the cause.
Here’s a more useful breakdown:
Likely fix | Typical cost range (UK) |
Call-out + diagnostics | £80–£150 |
Condensate thaw / minor fix | £80–£150 |
Ignition electrode / flame sensor | £150–£300 |
Gas valve repair/replacement | £250–£450+ |
PCB replacement | £300–£600+ |
Costs vary by:
Location (London often higher)
Urgency/out-of-hours call-outs
Parts availability and boiler model
If costs start stacking up, compare repair spend to the cost of replacement.
Should You Repair or Replace the Boiler?
If your boiler is 10+ years old and fault 227 keeps appearing, you’re often throwing good money after bad - especially if the culprit is a gas valve or PCB.
A decent rule of thumb:
If the repair is big and the boiler is old: replacement usually wins
If it’s a one-off issue (condensate freeze / minor sensor): repair is fine
Get a Quote for a New Boiler Today
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