Is your Ariston boiler on the blink? In this guide we'll explore some of the most common faults and costs to fix.
If you have a boiler, then the likelihood that you'll need help with a repair at some point during its life is relatively high.
Wear and tear take their toll and when problems happen a boiler breakdown can cause major inconvenience and discomfort.
Thankfully many of the most common Ariston boiler problems are simple to fix, but others do require the help and assistance of a qualified engineer.
In this guide, we will explore some of the most common Ariston boiler problems, along with their error codes and faults and explore some possible solutions.
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Top Ariston Boiler Problems
Here are the most common Ariston boiler problems, with their associated error codes and potential fixes...
#1 Low Water Pressure (Fault Code 108)
Low water pressure or low boiler pressure is one of the most common faults Ariston boilers experience (as is common in many other brands too).
In the event that your Ariston boiler's pressure does drop too low, the boiler will stop working or "lockout" and display the 108 fault code on the interface.
As mentioned, low boiler pressure is a common error in many boilers so isn't typically a cause for concern. Over time boilers can gradually lose pressure and need topping up, which you can do yourself.
However, sometimes a drop in pressure, particularly a sudden and sharp drop can be a sign of a more serious issue, such as a pinhole leak somewhere in the system. In order to rectify this, you will need the assistance of a qualified Gas Safe engineer.
Have issues with your combi boiler? Read our boiler problems and solutions for quick troubleshooting guidance.
How to Fix the Low Water Pressure in your Ariston Boiler
If your Ariston boiler has lost water pressure and is displaying the 108 fault code, it will have "locked out" and restarting is not the solution.
You will need to increase the boiler pressure, which is relatively easy to do manually. The exact way to do it will vary between boiler models and brands, so it's always worth reading the boiler manufacturer manual.
You can see the pressure level by looking at the pressure gauge if the needle is below 1 on the pressure gauge, this indicates the pressure is too low. Ideally, you want to top it up, until the needle sits within the green area, around the 1.5 mark.
Once the pressure is at the required level, you can then restart the boiler and it should resolve the issue.
However, bear in mind that this will only likely solve the issue if it's related to a gradual drop in pressure. If it is sudden and unexpected and repeatedly keeps occurring, it's likely caused by a leak somewhere in the system.
You will need to hire a registered Gas Safe Engineer to diagnose and repair the Ariston boiler problems.
Think you may have an ongoing issue with your boiler? Check our list of the top 10 boiler problems common in all types of boilers.
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#2 Failing to Ignite (Fault Code SP1 or SP2)
If the Ariston boiler fails to ignite, there are several potential causes, which will likely need the assistance of a registered Gas Safe engineer to fix.
Common causes for a failed ignition, include the following:
Faulty ignition leads
Broken diaphragms or airlocks
Blocked burner
The issue with the spark generator
No or little no gas supply
Low gas pressure
Debris in the pilot jet
As mentioned, there are many potential causes of a faulty boiler ignition and should be left to a registered Gas Safe engineer to repair.
How to Fix an Ignition Fault in an Ariston Boiler
If your Ariston boiler is displaying an ignition fault code, then it's certainly worth checking that your boiler pressure is within the normal range and that your thermostat is in working order.
If there are no other obvious causes and the code remains, then you should contact a Gas Safe engineer to diagnose and repair the issue safely.
#3 No Pilot Light (Fault Code 501)
The pilot light is ready to light the burner whenever there is a demand for hot water or when the central heating is turned on.
In some ungodly circumstances, this flame could go out or more commonly, just fail to catch. This will lead to total failure, meaning you'll get no hot water from your boiler.
In older boilers, you might actually be able to see the pilot light through the framework of your boiler, but in more modern boilers, you’ll be alerted of its failings through an error code on a depressing black-and-white monitor.
There are many potential causes of a faulty pilot light, which include:
Draft from the flue blowing out the flame
Faulty thermocouple
Blocked gas valve
Blockage in the flue
How to Fix the No Pilot Light Error in an Ariston Boiler
Unfortunately, fixing and diagnosing a faulty pilot light isn't a DIY task and will require assistance from a registered Gas Safe engineer.
#4 Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Fault (Fault Code 301-307)
The printed circuit board (PCB) in your Ariston boiler is essentially the control centre of your boiler, where all the electronic components meet and receive their instructions, making sure all components work in harmony.
Here is an example of what a PCB looks like:
Image source: Worcester Bosch
In Ariston boilers, there are several fault codes that indicate a fault with the PCB, some of the most commonly displayed include the following:
301
302
303
304
305
306
307
How to Fix a Faulty PCB in an Ariston Boiler
Since the PCB is a major, electronic and internal boiler component, issues relating to it need to be investigated by a registered Gas Safe engineer.
It is possible that wiring has become loose with the PCB, in which case it's a relatively quick and easy repair. However, if it's related to water damage or major component dysfunction, an engineer would typically advise a replacement PCB.
#5 Ariston Fan Fault (Fault Code A41)
The boiler fan plays a major safety role in your boiler functioning, as it ensures harmful exhaust fumes are removed from the boiler and your home via the exhaust. Therefore, if the fan is faulty, the boiler will lock out and display the A41 error code on the interface.
How to Fix a Faulty Fan in an Ariston Boiler
A boiler fan should not be attempted to be fixed yourself and should be left to a professional Gas Safe engineer.
The engineer will usually start diagnosing a faulty fan by checking that it's getting a necessary supply of power. They will check this by taking a look at the voltmeter. If this is the issue, then it’s very likely that a replacement fan will need to be fitted.
However, if it is related to a fan with wear and tear, this could be a sign that your boiler is getting old and may need replacing. Choosing to keep an old boiler and repair it when required can quickly add up.
#6 Faulty Air Pressure Switch (Fault Code E43)
Similar to the fan, the air pressure switch functions to remove harmful gases from your home, so if there is a fault with it, the Ariston boiler is designed to switch off or "lockout", in order to prioritise safety.
Therefore, a faulty air pressure switch is quite a serious issue, since it means the boiler is not safe to use.
How to Fix a Faulty Air Pressure Switch
As mentioned, the E43 error code is an indication that there is a fault with the Ariston air pressure switch and it needs to be repaired or replaced by a heating engineer.
It is possible that it may be related to the PCB too, as this key safety function is controlled by the PCB working together with the fan and air pressure switch.
Before the boiler ignites, the PCB will signal for the fan to start running, this is crucial since a change in air pressure is required for the harmful exhaust fumes to be extracted from the boiler during operation.
Once the fan is running, the gas valve is enabled, allowing gas to flow into the burner where it is ignited so that combustion can take place, producing the heat.
Do I need a new boiler?
Often, people who experience consistent boiler issues have an old boiler that is more prone to needing parts replacing and requiring emergency call-outs, both of which can be expensive.
At some point, there comes a time when it's going to be more financially sensible to have your boiler replaced with a new one, rather than dealing with the inconvenience and expense of constant repairs.
We have also reviewed and compared many other popular UK boiler brands, including the following:
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