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If your Ideal boiler has a flashing L2 error code on the display, this indicates an ignition failure or flame loss.
The L2 boiler fault code is specific to Ideal. However, the same issue is common on many other boilers. The only difference is the fault code that is displayed.
Below is a list of boiler brands and their correlating fault code that suggests an ignition failure, or loss of flame:
There are dozens of culprits that could cause the L2 error code to be displayed on Ideal boilers. These include the likes of:
If the boiler was to continue to run, it could be dangerous.
For that reason, your boiler goes into “lockout” mode. It won’t work until a Gas Safe engineer finds the issue, fixes it and then resets your boiler to clear the flashing L2 fault code.
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The L2 fault code shows on a range of system, regular and combi boilers including:
Whilst there are some quick, easy and free fixes, most require a Gas Safe engineer.
Gas boilers can be extremely dangerous and Gas Safe engineers are the only people qualified to work on them!
The printed circuit board (PCB) is the brains of your boiler. It communicates with all components in your appliance, telling it to lockout if it thinks there’s an issue or it’s unsafe.
Whilst the PCB may have correctly identified the fault as an air supply or gas supply issue (among other things) leading to the L2 fault code being shown, it may actually be the PCB that’s at fault.
A Gas Safe engineer can test your PCB to ensure that this isn’t the culprit. If it is and your engineer can’t find a quick fix, it will need to be replaced.
Unfortunately, the PCB is one of the most expensive components in a boiler to fix. Expect repair costs to be in the £400-£600 range.
Given the likes of the Ideal Logic+ combi costs just over £2,200 to install, it makes little sense investing this kind of cash into the repair of an old and unreliable boiler.
You can get boiler quotes on boilers with a 7+ year warranty here to help determine if you should repair or replace your unit. We fit units from top manufacturers producing the best combi boilers in the UK.
The L2 ignition fault could be caused by a blocked flue or condensate pipe.
First, you’ll need to check your flue. Even a handful of leaves in your flue could be enough for your Ideal boiler to lockout.
Secondly, check the condensate pipe (usually a small bore white plastic pipe coming out of an exterior wall). This is a much more common cause of the L2 fault in comparison to the flue, especially in the colder months.
If your condensate pipe is blocked, the blockage needs to be removed. In colder months a condensate that’s not draining properly can freeze, causing your boiler to lockout.
The fix is simple. Pour luke-warm water over the condensate pipe (on it, not in it) until the ice has thawed. At this point, you can reset your boiler and the L2 fault code will be cleared.
If your boiler still shows the flashing L2 error, it’s likely you have another issue (PCB failure, ignition failure, flame sensor error or an issue with the gas supply).
Your Gas Safe engineer will check your ignition leads and electrodes. Without both of these components operating (in good condition), your boiler won’t fire up.
Whilst not cheap, it’s one of the cheaper fixes. Expect a new set of ignition leads and electrodes to cost around £200 including diagnostic and installation from a Gas Safe engineer.
The flame sensor does exactly what it says on the tin; it recognises when there is (or isn’t) a flame on your boiler.
This part is essential. If there isn’t a flame your PCB needs the flame sensor to tell it, so it can shut off the gas valve (and therefore, gas supply). Otherwise, your unit will be building up a supply of unburnt gas and this is incredibly dangerous.
However, a faulty flame sensor could be suggesting to the PCB there isn’t a flame, when actually there is.
If this is the case, you’ll need a Gas Safe engineer to fit a new flame sensor. After diagnostic, parts and labour, expect this to cost £150-£200 depending on the exact Ideal boiler you own.
Once fitted, a simple reset will clear the L2 fault code.
Gas supply is the final potential culprit. However, your engineer will need to do some fault finding to highlight the exact issue.
If this is a sudden breakdown (you've not had problems before), it's likely your gas valve has failed and isn't opening or closing correctly. There's a possibility your boiler engineer can free it up, however, it's more likely you'll need a replacement.
Replacement gas valves tend to sit in the region of £250-£350. For those with an old, inefficient and reliable boiler, it might be worth upgrading to a new boiler with a fresh warranty, rather than investing in a deteriorating one.
You can get quotes on a new boiler here, all coming with a long warranty.
If the gas valve isn't to blame the issue could lie with:
The L2 boiler fault can indicate a flame sensor (ionisation probe) fault. However, this isn't the only potential culprit.
The L2 code can also indicate PCB failure, a gas valve fault, low gas pressure or a blockage in the flue or condensate pipe.
Typically, an Ideal boiler showing the L2 fault code is not dangerous. The boiler will lockout until an engineer fixes the issue and resets the boiler.
However, potential faults could include a faulty gas valve or low gas pressure. If you smell gas, call a Gas Safe engineer or your utility provider immediately.
One of the potential issues if your boiler is flashing with an L2 error code is an ignition fault. Typically this would be a fault with the ignition leads or electrodes.
An ignition lockout is simply your boiler not firing up, as it detects a fault with ignition based components within your appliance.
Ignition fault or flame loss.
This could be due to an air supply issue, ignition failure, flame sensor fault, low gas pressure, faulty gas valve or an error with your printed circuit board.
Check your flue and condensate pipe aren’t blocked with leaves, ice, or debris.
As all other faults relate to boiler components, you’ll need to contact a Gas Safe engineer in order to get this fixed.
Do not attempt to work on a gas boiler if you’re not a Gas Safe registered professional.
And that’s it for our guide covering the Ideal L2 fault code.
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