Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 Boiler

Error 1017 W

Overview

Error 1017 W on a Worcester Bosch Greenstar 8000 means the boiler has detected water pressure below the safe operating threshold. The boiler continuously monitors system pressure with a sensor; when pressure falls too low (typically below about 1.0 bar cold), the boiler will lock out or display a fault to protect the heat exchanger and pump from damage and to prevent unreliable operation. Common causes are simply a loss of system water (leak in pipework, radiators or boiler), a closed or incorrectly used filling loop, a stuck or faulty pressure relief valve (PRV) letting water escape, trapped air that makes the gauge read low, a blocked/frozen condensate pipe affecting operation, or a faulty pressure sensor. Severity ranges from low (easy DIY fix by re-pressurising) to serious (active leak, failed PRV, or component failure). If topping up pressure and basic checks clear the fault, it is likely a simple maintenance action; if pressure keeps dropping, the PRV, expansion vessel, pressure sensor, pump or a leak will usually require a qualified Gas Safe engineer.

Possible Cause: Water pressure too low.

Troubleshooting Steps

Safety precautions:

1) Do not attempt any internal repairs or to work on gas-tight components. If you are not confident, call a Gas Safe registered engineer. 2) Turn off electrical power to the boiler before removing any covers. Do not work on the boiler while it is live unless performing only safe user operations like pressing reset or opening a filling loop. 3) If you smell gas, leave the property immediately and call the gas emergency number; do not operate electrical switches.

Initial checks a homeowner can do:

1) Look at the pressure gauge on the boiler. The cold system pressure should normally be around 1.0–1.5 bar. Note what it reads. 2) Check for visible leaks around the boiler, pipes, radiators, and valve connections. Look for fresh drips, wet patches or corrosion. 3) Check the condensate pipe (usually a small plastic pipe to outside). In freezing weather it can block; thaw gently with warm (not boiling) water or a warm cloth. 4) Ensure all isolation valves to and from the boiler are fully open (inlet and outlet valves, motorised valves where accessible).

Steps to diagnose and (where safe) fix:

1) Re-pressurise the system: Identify your filling loop type (external hose, internal keyed or keyless key). Follow the boiler manual instructions. For an external filling loop open the mains cold water valve and the filling valve slowly, watch the pressure gauge and stop when it reaches about 1.0–1.5 bar, then close both valves and remove/secure the hose. For internal keyed or keyless types operate the key or lever as instructed until pressure reaches about 1.0–1.5 bar. Wipe up any drips. 2) Reset the boiler: After topping up, follow the boiler manual reset procedure or use the control panel to clear the fault. The 1017 W should clear if low pressure was the only issue. 3) Bleed radiators: If radiators are cold at the top, bleed them to release trapped air. Bleeding will lower pressure, so repressurise afterwards to about 1.0–1.5 bar and reset again. 4) Watch the pressure: Over the next 24–48 hours monitor the gauge. If pressure stays stable, the issue may be resolved. If it drops slowly, you likely have a leak in the system. If it drops immediately after repressurising or when heating is on, suspect a PRV leak, expansion vessel problem or pressure sensor/pump fault.

When to call a professional (and what they will check):

1) Call a Gas Safe engineer if you find a leak, if the boiler keeps losing pressure after topping up, if you can see water discharging from the PRV pipe, if the pressure sensor appears to be faulty (error persists after correct pressure), or if you are uncomfortable performing the steps above. 2) A qualified engineer will pressure-test the system to locate leaks, check and replace a faulty pressure sensor, test or replace a leaking pressure relief valve, inspect and recharge or replace the expansion vessel, examine the pump and internal components, and ensure the boiler is safe and operating to manufacturer specifications.

Additional notes and cautions:

1) Never leave the filling loop permanently open; it must be fully closed and secured after use. 2) Do not use the boiler if you suspect a serious leak or component failure — isolate and call a professional. 3) Avoid using direct heat sources or open flames to thaw condensate or frozen pipes; use warm water or a warm air source. 4) Always consult your boiler user manual for model-specific instructions for repressurising and resetting. 5) Replacing sensors, PRVs, the expansion vessel or any gas-related or internal components must be done by a Gas Safe qualified engineer.