Error EA 261

Safety first

- If you smell gas (rotten egg smell), stop using the property, do not operate electrical switches, leave immediately and call the gas emergency number (UK: 0800 111 999) and a Gas Safe engineer. Do not attempt further checks.

- If there is no gas smell, treat the boiler as an appliance with potentially live electrical parts and gas supply. Do not open the boiler casing or touch internal components unless you are a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Initial homeowner checks (safe, do not require opening the boiler)

1. Note the exact code: EA 261 and any accompanying lights or cause codes. This helps the engineer.

2. Try a single reset: press and hold the boiler reset button for about 3–5 seconds (or follow your model’s reset method). Some faults clear after one reset if they were transient. If the code returns, stop resetting — repeated resets won’t fix a genuine HCM fault and may mask the underlying problem.

3. Check external supply: ensure the boiler has mains power (other appliances or the boiler display lit), and make sure the gas isolation valve to the boiler is open. Confirm other gas appliances work or check your gas meter/prepay credit if appropriate.

4. Check for recent work or parts changes: if the boiler was recently serviced or parts replaced, mention this to the engineer — an incorrect HCM or incorrect wiring after service is a common cause.

What a competent engineer will do (do not attempt yourself unless Gas Safe qualified)

1. Verify fault and read detailed cause codes from the boiler’s information menu and fault log. Confirm EA 261 maps to HCM/burner control issues for this model.

2. Isolate and make safe, then remove the boiler cover and inspect the HCM/burner control module and PCB for obvious signs: loose or unplugged connectors, corrosion, burn marks, or incorrectly fitted module. Check wiring integrity and connector seating.

3. Check the flame detection circuit and ignition system: verify electrode, ignition lead, and flame sensor continuity and condition. Confirm the gas valve operation and that gas is reaching the burner under control of the module.

4. Swap or replace the HCM/burner control module if faulty or if an incompatible unit was installed. Refit correctly, reconnect and clear the fault codes. Some engineers may bench-test or substitute a known-good module to confirm the fault before replacement.

5. After repair or replacement, run the boiler through a full commissioning sequence: verify ignition, stable flame signal, correct gas valve operation, safe combustion and no gas leaks. Confirm the boiler runs reliably and the error does not return.

When to call a professional

- If the error remains after one safe reset and basic supply checks, call a Gas Safe registered engineer. EA 261 normally requires qualified diagnosis and likely replacement of an electronic module or repair to associated flame detection/gas components.

- Always call immediately if you detect a gas smell or suspect a leak.

Final notes

- Do not attempt internal repairs, component swaps, or wiring work unless you are Gas Safe registered. Working on gas appliances and live electronics is dangerous and illegal for unqualified persons.

- Keep a note of the fault code, any recent service history or part swaps, and provide that information to the engineer to speed diagnosis. The engineer will have the correct parts and testing equipment to fix EA 261 safely and correctly.