Error F.68

Safety precautions:

1) If you smell gas, immediately turn off gas appliances, do not operate electrical switches, ventilate the area by opening windows and leave the building. Call the gas emergency number and a Gas Safe engineer immediately. Do not attempt repairs.

2) Do not attempt to dismantle the burner, gas valve or internal boiler components unless you are a Gas Safe registered engineer. Isolate electrical power before attempting any visual checks inside the user-accessible service panels.

3) Do not repeatedly reset the boiler. One short reset is OK to test, but multiple resets can stress components and hide progressive faults.

Initial checks a homeowner can do (safe, non-invasive):

1) Record the fault: note the error code (F.68), when it appears and any recent work on gas or the boiler. This information is useful for the engineer.

2) Try a single reset: use the boiler reset function once, then observe. If the fault returns immediately or soon after, stop resetting.

3) Confirm gas supply: check other gas appliances (hob, gas fire) light and burn normally. If other appliances fail, the problem is likely the gas supply or meter (locked off or empty prepay). Check the gas meter isolation valve is in line with the pipe.

4) Check the boiler has power and water pressure normal (the boiler won’t operate properly if power or supply issues exist).

5) Note any recent activity that could introduce air into the gas line (recent meter change, work on gas piping) as air can cause unstable flame until purged.

If basic checks do not clear the fault, prepare for an engineer visit. Information to provide: the exact error code(s), whether the fault is intermittent or constant, whether other gas appliances work, any recent service or gas work, and whether the boiler has been reset and how often.

What a qualified engineer will diagnose and potential fixes (do not attempt these unless Gas Safe qualified):

1) Read the boiler fault memory and live signals to confirm F.68 and any associated codes (F28, F29, F54, F61 etc.) that give clues about ignition or gas valve faults.

2) Visually inspect and electronically test the flame detection electrode/ionisation probe for correct position, cleanliness and continuity. Replace or re-seat the probe if contaminated, damaged or incorrectly positioned.

3) Check wiring and connectors from the electrode to the PCB for corrosion, loose connections or damaged insulation and repair as required.

4) Verify gas supply pressure at the appliance and check for air in the gas line; purge if required following safe gas procedures. Confirm the regulator and meter deliver stable pressure.

5) Test the gas valve operation and the ignition transformer; replace the gas valve if it is failing to regulate flow correctly (many ignition/valve faults present with F28/F29/F54 in combination with flame instability codes).

6) Check the PCB and ignition control electronics; if the flame signal circuit or PCB electronics are faulty they may need replacement.

7) After repairs, the engineer will run the boiler, observe the flame signal and ensure stable combustion and correct safety operation. They will also clear the fault memory and advise on any parts replaced.

When to call a professional:

1) Call a Gas Safe registered engineer whenever the fault persists after the safe homeowner checks, whenever internal burner, gas valve or wiring inspection is required, or if you cannot confirm a normal gas supply from other appliances.

2) If you smell gas or there is any sign of gas leakage, evacuate and call the gas emergency service immediately.

Final notes:

1) Do not attempt to adjust electrode gaps, gas pressure settings, or replace the gas valve or PCB yourself. These require specialist tools and certification.

2) Provide the engineer with fault history and any related symptoms to help speed diagnosis and repair.

3) Regular servicing of the boiler reduces the chance of flame detection and gas-supply related faults in the future.