A flashing blue light on a Worcester gas boiler typically indicates a fault that requires immediate attention. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a deep understanding of the various causes, troubleshooting steps, safety precautions, and technical specifications to help you effectively address the issue.
Causes of the Blue Light Flashing
1. Fan Fault
- A fast flashing blue light with the reset light off usually points to a fan issue.
- The fan voltage should be 240V between the brown and purple wires. If the voltage is not within this range, it indicates a problem with the fan.
- Replacing the fan is often the solution, but it may also be necessary to replace the seal on the heat exchanger and the fan itself.
- The fan motor in a Worcester Greenstar boiler typically operates at 3,000 RPM and consumes around 70-90 watts of power.
2. Gas Supply Issues
- Error code “EA” often accompanies the blue light flashing and indicates gas supply problems.
- Potential causes include:
- Flue blockages: The flue should be clear of any obstructions, and the diameter should be 110mm for most Worcester Greenstar boilers.
- Condensate pipe blockages: The condensate pipe should have a minimum diameter of 22mm and be free of any clogs or kinks.
- Faulty ignition electrode: The ignition electrode gap should be 3-4mm, and the electrode should be free of any corrosion or damage.
- Faulty flame sensor: The flame sensor should be clean and properly positioned to detect the flame.
- Faulty gas valve: The gas valve should provide the correct gas pressure, typically between 17-22 mbar for natural gas and 37 mbar for LPG.
- Gas leaks: Any gas leaks should be immediately addressed by a certified gas engineer.
- Low gas pressure to the boiler: The gas supply pressure should be within the manufacturer’s recommended range, typically 18-22 mbar for natural gas and 37 mbar for LPG.
- Low boiler water pressure: The boiler water pressure should be between 1-1.5 bar for proper operation.
3. Other Issues
- PCB (Printed Circuit Board) faults, though less common, can also cause the blue light to flash.
- Sediment buildup in the sediment trap can trigger the flashing blue light, as it can interfere with the boiler’s operation.
- The PCB in a Worcester Greenstar boiler is responsible for controlling the various components, including the fan, gas valve, and ignition system. A faulty PCB can lead to a range of issues, including the blue light flashing.
Troubleshooting Steps
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Check the Error Code: Look for the error code on the boiler’s screen, which will help identify the specific issue. The error code “EA” is commonly associated with gas supply problems in Worcester Greenstar boilers.
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Reset the Boiler: If the reset light is not flashing, press the reset button and observe the blue light. If it remains stable for a few seconds, it may indicate a fan issue.
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Check the Fan: Verify the fan voltage and inspect the fan for any blockages or damage. The fan should be free of any obstructions and spinning freely.
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Inspect the Flue and Condensate Pipe: Ensure the flue and condensate pipe are clear of blockages and debris. The flue should have a minimum diameter of 110mm, and the condensate pipe should have a minimum diameter of 22mm.
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Call a Gas Engineer: If the issue persists, it is recommended to call a certified gas engineer to diagnose and fix the problem, as boiler repairs can be dangerous if not done correctly. Gas engineers have the necessary expertise and equipment to properly identify and resolve the issue.
Safety Precautions
- If you suspect a gas leak, immediately turn off the boiler and call the emergency gas line at 0800 111 9999.
- Regularly inspect your boiler for gas leaks and ensure proper maintenance to prevent such issues.
- Never attempt to repair a gas boiler if you are not a certified gas engineer, as it can be extremely dangerous.
Technical Specifications
- The Worcester Bosch Greenstar boiler’s error code “EA” is commonly associated with gas supply problems.
- The boiler’s PCB controls all gas boilers and can also be a cause of the blue light flashing.
- The fan in a Worcester Greenstar boiler typically operates at 3,000 RPM and consumes around 70-90 watts of power.
- The gas supply pressure should be within the manufacturer’s recommended range, typically 18-22 mbar for natural gas and 37 mbar for LPG.
- The boiler water pressure should be between 1-1.5 bar for proper operation.
DIY and Professional Assistance
While some issues can be diagnosed and fixed by a DIY approach, it is highly recommended to seek the help of a certified gas engineer for most repairs to ensure safety and proper resolution. Attempting to repair a gas boiler without the necessary expertise can be extremely dangerous and may lead to further damage or even life-threatening situations.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZueY56rfP0
- https://heatable.co.uk/boiler-advice/flashing-blue-light-boiler
- https://www.justanswer.co.uk/hvac/ktoeg-blue-light-flashing-worcester-mt-10-boiler-indicating.html
- https://www.boilercentral.com/troubleshooting/worcester-bosch-blue-light-flashing/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/DIYUK/comments/18vcvgl/help_why_is_my_worcester_boilers_light_flashing/