Glow-worm F28 Fault Guide for Homeowners: Meaning, Symptoms, Safety, Causes, and Prevention
The Glow-worm F28 fault indicates an ignition failure. You will see the boiler fail to start, showing an error code F28. This fault poses a potential safety risk due to unburned gas accumulation. The main causes include gas supply issues, faulty components, blockages, and electronic faults. Preventative measures include regular servicing, checking gas supply, and protecting against freezing. Always use a Gas-Safe engineer for repairs. The next section will explain the meaning of the F28 fault in more detail.
Meaning of the Glow-worm F28 Fault
The F28 fault code on a Glow-worm boiler signifies an ignition failure. This means that the boiler has attempted to ignite three times but has failed to do so. The ignition process has 4 main parts: the gas supply, spark generator, ignition leads, and gas valve. If one of these fails, the boiler can’t light and it will display the F28 error code.
What are the risks associated with the F28 fault?
The main risk associated with the F28 fault is the potential for unburned gas accumulation. This poses a danger of gas leaks or explosions. Ensure proper ventilation, and get a boiler engineer to take a look.
Can I resolve the F28 fault myself?
No, it is unlikely that you will be able to resolve the F28 issue yourself.
You can check the gas supply is on and reset the boiler. If you’re on a pre-pay gas meter, make sure it’s not run out of credit. But you’re probably going to need a Gas-Safe engineer. This is because the fault is likely to involve complex components like the gas valve or ignition. These aren’t DIY jobs.
Is the F28 fault dangerous?
Yes, the F28 fault can be dangerous if you don’t fix it. The primary danger comes from the risk of unburned gas, which has the potential to lead to leaks or explosions. Get in touch with a Gas-Safe engineer to safely handle the fault for you.
Symptoms of the Glow-worm F28 Fault
The Glow-worm F28 fault presents specific symptoms that indicate an ignition failure. Identifying these symptoms can help in diagnosing the problem quickly. Here are the main symptoms:
- Boiler Fails to Ignite: The boiler attempts to start but fails.
- No Hot Water or Heating: If the boiler can’t ignite, it can’t heat your water, so you’ll have no hot water and heating.
- Error Code Display: The F28 fault code appears on the boiler’s display panel.
- Repeated Clicking Sounds: You may hear the boiler clicking as it attempts to ignite but fails.
- Boiler Lockout: The boiler enters what engineers call a lockout state. This is to prevent damage and requires a reset to attempt restarting.
How To Recognise The F28 Fault on Different Types of Glow-worm Boiler
Glow-worm Combi Boilers
Combi boilers show the F28 fault code directly on the digital display. You’ll also have no hot water and heating. The display may show additional diagnostic information, depending on your model of combi-boiler.
Glow-worm System Boilers
System boilers also present the F28 error on their digital control panels. Your hot water will cool down as it’s used. This happens because the tank refills with cold water, not hot water. These boilers may also produce repeated clicking sounds during ignition attempts.
Older Non-Digital Boilers
For older non-digital Glow-worm boilers, recognizing the F28 fault can be more challenging. These boilers don’t display error codes but will have similar other symptoms. There’s be no hot water and the boiler won’t run. You may hear repeated clicking sounds and see the boiler’s status light indicating a fault.
What to Do When Your Glow-Worm Boiler Shows the F28 Fault
When your Glow-worm boiler displays the F28 fault code, follow these steps. First, check the gas supply to ensure it is turned on. Second, reset the boiler according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Third, if the fault persists, contact a Gas-Safe engineer for further inspection.
Safety Disclaimer: Only perform actions described in the boiler’s instruction manual. For any other issues or repairs, use a Gas-Safe registered engineer. Do not tamper with internal components, pipework, wires or other parts of your boiler installation.
How to reset the boiler after an F28 fault?
To reset your Glow-worm boiler, find the reset button. It is usually marked with a flame symbol and a line through it. Press and hold the button for about 10 seconds. If the boiler doesn’t reset, contact a professional.
Should I turn off the boiler?
Yes, if you detect any unusual smells or sounds, turn off the boiler immediately. This prevents further issues and ensures safety.
Where can I check the gas supply?
Check the gas meter to ensure it is on and that you have credit if using a prepayment meter. Verify that other gas appliances, like a gas hob, are working to confirm the gas supply.
When should I call a Gas-Safe engineer?
Call a Gas-Safe engineer if resetting the boiler does not clear the F28 fault.
The 6 Major Causes of The F28 Fault
The 6 major causes of the F28 fault on Glow-worm boilers are gas supply issues, faulty ignition components, blockages, electronic faults, frozen condensate pipes, and debris in the burner.
1. Gas Supply Issues
Gas supply problems are a common cause of the F28 fault. There may be low gas pressure, an air pocket in the gas main, or a frozen gas meter regulator. There may need to be a pre-payment for some meters. Consistent and adequate gas supply is obviously required for your boiler to function.
2. Faulty Ignition Components
Faulty ignition leads, spark generators, or electrodes can prevent the boiler from igniting. These components create the spark needed to ignite the gas. If they have been damaged or have worn out, the ignition process fails.
3. Blockages in the Flue or Air Intake
Blockages in the flue or air intake can impede proper airflow. This restriction prevents the boiler from igniting safely. Common blockages include debris, bird nests, or ice in the flue during cold weather.
4. Electronic Faults
Electronic issues can cause the F28 fault. Examples include a faulty printed circuit board (PCB) or failure in the wiring. The PCB controls the ignition process and other essential boiler functions.
5. Frozen Condensate Pipe
In cold weather, the condensate pipe can freeze, causing a blockage. This prevents the boiler from igniting and leads to the F28 fault code. Thawing the pipe and insulating it from freezing again can resolve this issue.
6. Debris in the Burner
Debris in the burner can block the gas jet, preventing proper gas flow and ignition.
How can a frozen condensate pipe cause the F28 fault?
A frozen condensate pipe creates a blockage that stops the boiler from expelling condensation. This blockage prevents ignition, leading to the F28 fault code.
How does debris in the burner cause ignition failure?
Debris in the burner blocks the gas jet, disturbing normal gas flow.
Preventing Future Glow-worm Boiler F28 Faults
Have your boiler serviced annually to reduce the risk of all kinds of faults. It’s worth paying for a regular service and emergency cover to keep your home warm and your family safe.
You can also ensure proper ventilation around the boiler to keep it running well.
Disclaimer
You should only follow the instructions in your boiler user manual. Anything beyond this requires a Gas-Safe registered engineer. Handling gas appliances requires professional expertise to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.