UK Appliance Error Codes

Error code

Baxi Boiler Fault Code E160

Baxi Boiler Fault Code E160 usually means the boiler has detected a fan or air-pressure related fault. Keep checks to the boiler display, pressure gauge, controls, manual reset, and visible external system only; do not remove the casing.

Last updated: 12 May 2026Boiler faults need a cautious approach

Quick answer

E160: what does it mean and how to fix

high severity

What does it mean?

the boiler has detected a fan or air-pressure related fault.

How to fix first

Do not use the boiler if the fault keeps returning.

Why is this happening?

Fan not reaching or proving the expected speed

When should I call an engineer?

Call a qualified heating or Gas Safe registered engineer if the fault returns after one permitted reset, the boiler repeatedly locks out, pressure drops, ignition or flame proving is affected, overheating occurs, or any internal diagnosis is needed.

What does this error code mean?

Baxi boiler fault code E160 usually points to a fan, air-pressure, or safe-flue-operation fault.

Do not inspect the fan, flue, or combustion path yourself. Check only that the boiler has power, controls are set correctly, and no external obstruction is obvious from a safe distance.

This page deliberately keeps diagnosis conservative because boiler internals, combustion safety, and sealed-case work require qualified professional attention.

Symptoms users may notice

  1. The boiler may lock out and stop providing heating or hot water.
  2. The display may return to the same code after a reset.
  3. Heating demand may fail, cycle briefly, or stop before normal operation.

Why is this happening?

  1. Fan not reaching or proving the expected speed
  2. Air-pressure or flue-safety issue
  3. Internal wiring or PCB fan-control fault

What this usually points to

This page deliberately keeps diagnosis conservative because boiler internals, combustion safety, and sealed-case work require qualified professional attention.

How to fix this safely

  1. Do not use the boiler if the fault keeps returning.
  2. Check only the display, power, and controls from outside the casing.
  3. Try one permitted reset if the manual allows it.
  4. Call a Gas Safe registered engineer for fan, flue, or air-pressure diagnosis.

Can I fix this myself?

No

Keep this to safe homeowner checks only. Do not remove the boiler casing or attempt gas, combustion, fan, flue, sensor, pump, PCB, or internal wiring work.

Safety boundary: Stop after one permitted user reset if the fault returns, pressure drops again, the boiler overheats, ignition fails, or any internal fault is suspected.

What not to do

  1. Do not remove the boiler casing.
  2. Do not repeatedly reset a boiler that locks out again.
  3. Do not work on gas, combustion, flue, fan, sensor, pump, PCB, valve, or internal wiring parts.

Reset steps

  1. Check the boiler manual for the permitted user reset process.
  2. Try one reset only if the manual allows it and there are no signs of overheating, leaking, gas smell, or electrical concern.
  3. Stop and call a qualified heating or Gas Safe registered engineer if the code returns.

Intermittent vs persistent faults

A one-off fault may clear after one permitted reset, but repeat lockouts should be treated as persistent and professionally diagnosed.

When to call an engineer

Call a qualified heating or Gas Safe registered engineer if the fault returns after one permitted reset, the boiler repeatedly locks out, pressure drops, ignition or flame proving is affected, overheating occurs, or any internal diagnosis is needed.

Safety warning

Do not remove the boiler casing, disturb the flue, or attempt gas, combustion, fan, pump, PCB, sensor, valve, or internal wiring repairs. Use only safe homeowner checks from the manual.

Useful hub links

Related fan and flue fault codes

Relevant guide

Frequently asked questions

What does Baxi boiler E160 mean?+

Baxi Boiler Fault Code E160 usually means the boiler has detected a fan or air-pressure related fault.

How do I fix Baxi boiler E160?+

Use only safe homeowner checks: read the display, check controls and pressure where relevant, and try one permitted reset if the manual allows it. Repeated lockout needs an engineer.

Can I still use a Baxi boiler with E160?+

Do not keep using or repeatedly resetting the boiler while this fault is showing. If heat or hot water returns after one permitted reset but the code comes back, stop and arrange professional diagnosis.

Can I repair Baxi E160 myself?+

No. Stay outside the casing and leave gas, combustion, fan, flue, overheating, sensor, PCB, and internal repairs to a qualified professional.