What is the Vaillant F61 Fault Code?
Speak to an expertHave you run into an F61 fault code on your Vaillant boiler? Fear not! In this article, we explain what the F61 code means, what causes it, and what you can do to fix it!
What is the Vaillant F61 fault code?
The Vaillant F61 fault code indicates a communication problem between the boiler’s printed circuit board (PCB) and the gas valve.
The error code is displayed when the boiler is unable to receive signals from the PCB, which controls the gas valve. As a result, the boiler will not ignite or produce hot water.
What causes the fault code?
There are several potential causes of an F61 error code. We’ll explain the most common issues.
Faulty PCB
One of the most likely causes of the error is a faulty PCB. The PCB is a critical component that acts as the brain of your boiler. The PCB receives signals from sensors and thermostats and uses them to regulate the boiler’s pressure and temperature.
As the brain of the boiler, when the PCB fails, the boiler will shut down, and you’ll see an error code on your boiler’s display.
Unfortunately, there is no DIY fix for this issue. Instead, you will need to get in touch with a boiler repair specialist who will be able to diagnose the problem and repair the fault.
The bad news is that PCB replacements can be expensive, so it is important to consider the age of your boiler before ordering a new part.
Generally, if your boiler is over ten years old, it may be more cost-effective to replace it in the long run.
Seized or stuck valves
If you’re experiencing the Vaillant F61 error due to a stuck or seized valve, it can lead to dangerous situations. A partially open valve can let gas into the combustion chamber, while a partially closed one can starve your boiler of gas.
Fortunately, in many cases, a Gas Safe engineer can free the valve. Get in touch with a professional to assess and repair the damage. If the valve can’t be released, a replacement may be necessary.
Faulty gas valve
Another possible cause of the F61 error code is a faulty gas valve. The gas valve controls the flow of gas into the burner, which is used to heat the water in the system.
Gas valves can become faulty with age and general wear and tear. So if you haven’t had your boiler serviced for some time, a defective gas valve may be the problem.
You will need to contact a Gas Safe registered engineer to investigate the issue. Your engineer may be able to complete an on-the-spot repair after testing. Alternatively, they will need to order a replacement gas valve if unrepairable.
Loose or damaged wiring
Loose wiring between the PCB and the gas valve can also cause the F61 fault code. Loose wiring can occur due to vibrations, wear and tear, or poor installation.
When the wiring is loose, the communication between the PCB and the gas valve is disrupted, and the F61 code is displayed.
A Gas Safe registered engineer will inspect the wiring for any signs of wear and tear, poor installation, or vibrations.
If the engineer finds any loose connections, they will need to reconnect them tightly. In addition, if any of the wiring is damaged, the engineer may be able to replace the wiring to restore the connection.
How to prevent the F61 fault code
The F61 fault code is commonly caused by ageing parts and poor maintenance. To prevent this issue, it is best to schedule regular maintenance for your boiler.
We highly recommend arranging an annual boiler service, during which the engineer will carefully clean every component to prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris.
Regular servicing will help prevent the F61 fault code and ensure that your boiler runs efficiently. This, in turn, can save you money by preventing your boiler from overworking and causing more significant wear and tear on critical components.
About the author
Trades Team are experts in Heating, Plumbing and Gas Services. We have 15 years of experience providing expert Boiler Repair and Boiler Servicing to homes and businesses across the Southeast. Learn more about Trades Team.