How to fix an E1 error on a Potterton boiler

Whenever your boiler shows an error code you might immediately think about an expensive engineer visit and repairs. However, that’s not always the necessary solution as some errors on a Potterton boiler you can manage to fix yourself. In this guide, we’ll be looking specifically at what the E1 error on a Potterton boiler means and the steps you can take to resolve it.

What does an E1 error code on a Potterton boiler mean?

Even though it can be frustrating to see an error code appear on your boiler, the E1 code is a fairly common one amongst Potterton boilers and normally isn’t too serious. An E1 code typically means your boiler has low pressure, which is leading it to lock you out and not work as it should.  

When you see this code appear, you should be able to fix it and get rid of the error by repressurising your Potterton boiler. However, not every E1 code means the boiler pressure is low, and if you repressurise the boiler and the problem doesn’t resolve you should contact a professional Gas Safe engineer to diagnose and repair the system.

Examples of common E1 error codes 

In order to get a better understanding of what the precise cause of the error is you should pay attention to the numbers that follow E1. See some examples of E1 error codes and their meanings below to give you a better insight into the potential issue with your boiler.  

• E119 – this code means low water pressure as we mentioned above. It is an issue that can be easily resolved by repressurising your boiler (adding water to the system). If the code continues to come back, it’s likely you’ve got a leak in the system or there is a problem with your pressure sensor. An experienced engineer will be able to locate the source of the problem in this case and advise on any boiler replacement parts you might need. 
• E133 – if you see this error code it suggests that there is a fault with the gas supply. To fix this problem you should reset the boiler after ensuring the gas supply is open and active. When resetting the boiler, if the issue doesn’t look like it is going to resolve after holding the button for five seconds, you should contact an engineer.  
• E168 – when your boiler displays this E1 code it can mean that the system has found a fault somewhere but is unsure of the cause. It might be a problem with the electrical supply, you can try to reset the system to see if that fixes it.

How to repressurise your Potterton boiler

As boilers age it is common for them to need repressurising every now and again, especially if the E119 code is displaying. The first step in increasing the pressure in your boiler is to check the reading on the pressure gauge. Normally, boiler pressure should be around 1 to 1.5 bar. When checking for a low pressure reading you will likely notice that the gauge has dropped to below 1 bar.  

Step 1 

Turn off all your radiator bleeder valves and towel rails. 

Step 2 

Retrieve your boiler’s filling loop if it has an external loop and attach it to the boiler.  

Step 3 

Open the valves to top up your boiler’s pressure through the filling loop, keeping an eye on the pressure gauge as you do so. As soon as the pressure gauge gets to within normal parameters close the valves and detach the filling loop. Make sure you fully close the filling loops and valves to avoid the possibility of leaks occurring. 

Does an E1 fault code mean you need to replace your boiler? 

It’s easy to jump to conclusions and assume that an error on your boiler means it’s on its way out and you’ll need to replace it. However, quite often this isn’t the case, and your boiler will still have many years of life left once this one fault has been fixed. If repressurising the boiler fixes your E1 code with no further issues, then there would be no reason to rush into buying a new boiler straight away.  

On the other hand, if your boiler is already an older system and you’re having multiple problems with it, it might be worth doing some calculations and seeing whether consistently repairing your boiler is costing you more than simply replacing it would. Every situation is different and if you aren’t sure whether it’s time for a new boiler or not check out our other recent guide on the topic here.  

Conclusion: Where can I get boiler spare parts near me?

If you’re having a problem with your Potterton boiler and are looking for an affordable and reliable solution, NBS can help. We offer cost effective new and refurbished boiler spare parts UK to help our customers get their boilers fixed without the hefty price tag. Find the exact part you need for the make and model of your boiler through our online shop today. Contact us if you have any questions or queries.