Boiler
141
Error code 141 on a Potterton boiler indicates a flame detection fault — the boiler is failing to detect a stable flame after ignition, which is a safety lockout. This is a serious fault that requires prompt attention and, in almost all cases, a Gas Safe registered engineer.
What does this error mean?
When the boiler fires up, the flame sensor (also called an ionisation probe) sends an electrical signal to the PCB confirming the burner has lit successfully. If that signal isn’t detected within a set time, or the flame appears unstable, the boiler locks out and displays code 141 to prevent unburnt gas from building up. This is a deliberate safety mechanism — not a glitch to be bypassed.
Est. repair cost
£80–£180 for sensor/electrode repair; £150–£450 for gas valve or PCB replacement — all require a Gas Safe engineer
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Check your gas supply first: confirm other gas appliances (hob, gas fire) are working. If not, contact your gas supplier immediately — do not attempt to reset the boiler.
Perform a manual reset: press and hold the reset button on your Potterton boiler for 3–5 seconds (refer to your model’s manual for the exact location). Allow the boiler to attempt ignition. If it locks out again after 1–2 resets, stop here.
Do not attempt more than two resets in quick succession — repeated failed ignition attempts can allow gas to accumulate, which is dangerous.
Check your boiler’s gas isolation valve (the handle on the pipe near the boiler) is fully open — it should be inline with the pipe, not across it.
If the boiler resets successfully but the fault returns within hours or days, there is an underlying component failure. Do not continue resetting — call a Gas Safe registered engineer.
All further diagnosis and repair (cleaning the flame sensor, replacing electrodes, testing the gas valve, or replacing the PCB) must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. This is a legal requirement in the UK — it is illegal for unqualified individuals to work on gas components.
📞 When to call a professional
Call a Gas Safe registered engineer if the boiler does not clear after one or two resets, if the fault returns repeatedly, or if you smell gas at any point (in which case call the National Gas Emergency line on 0800 111 999 immediately and do not use the boiler). When calling an engineer, tell them: ‘My Potterton boiler is displaying error code 141 and locking out on ignition — I suspect a flame detection fault.’
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A flame sensor clean or electrode replacement typically costs £80–£180 including labour; a gas valve replacement runs £150–£300; a PCB replacement can reach £250–£450 fitted. If your Potterton boiler is over 10–12 years old and facing a repair above £300, replacement is likely the more cost-effective choice — modern A-rated combi boilers start from around £1,800–£2,500 fully installed. For boilers under 8 years old in otherwise good condition, repair is almost always worthwhile.