Baxi E160 Fault Code
The E160 fault means the PCB cannot confirm the fan is running correctly, or the air pressure switch has not triggered during the proving sequence. The boiler refuses to ignite until it can confirm the flue is clear.
What is the Baxi E160 fault code?
The Baxi E160 fault is triggered when the control board does not receive confirmation from the air pressure switch (APS) within the expected time after the fan starts. The APS proves the flue gases can escape safely before ignition is permitted — if the switch does not confirm "clear," the boiler locks out with E160 as a safety measure. The fault can originate at the fan motor, the APS itself, the connecting hose, the flue, or the condensate system.
What causes the E160 fault?
The fan motor degrades over time. A failing motor may run too slowly to generate sufficient flue draught for the APS to confirm clearance.
A bird nest, debris, or partial obstruction at the flue outlet restricts airflow. E160 triggers even if the fan is running perfectly.
A cracked APS diaphragm or failed contacts mean the switch shows E160 even with the fan running at full speed. Confirmed by bridging the APS temporarily during diagnosis.
A cracked or loose rubber hose between the APS and the fan prevents the switch from detecting the pressure created by the fan.
A blocked condensate trap creates backpressure in the flue gas path, mimicking a blocked flue and preventing the APS from making contact.
In cold weather, a frozen condensate pipe causes the same backpressure effect. E160 appears but resolves immediately once the pipe is thawed.
What you can safely check yourself
If safely visible, inspect the flue terminal for obvious blockages such as bird nests or debris. Do not reach inside the terminal.
In cold weather, pour warm (not boiling) water over the external condensate pipe. Then attempt one reset.
Hold the reset button for 3 seconds. Listen for the fan starting within a few seconds. If E160 returns, call an engineer.
Do not reset the boiler more than once if the fault code returns immediately. Repeated resets without diagnosis can mask a worsening fault.
What needs a Gas Safe engineer
- Test fan motor speed and current draw
- Inspect flue terminal and flue run for blockages or damage
- Test air pressure switch continuity and switching pressure
- Inspect APS hose for splits, kinks, or disconnection
- Clear or replace blocked condensate trap
- Check PCB fan control circuit if all other components test correctly
Fan faults are common across South London's older housing stock. Many properties in Wandsworth, Merton, Lewisham, Lambeth, Southwark, Greenwich, and Bromley run Baxi Platinum+ and 600 series boilers 10–15 years old — within the fan motor wear window. Annual servicing includes a fan speed check to catch degradation before it results in an E160 lockout mid-winter.
How much does a E160 repair cost?
Costs below are UK averages. Reion provides a fixed quote after the £80 diagnostic visit — no obligation to proceed.
How to reset a Baxi boiler showing E160
In winter: check and thaw the condensate pipe before resetting.
Check the flue terminal for visible blockages from outside.
Hold the reset button for 3 seconds.
Listen for the fan starting — you should hear it within 5 seconds.
If E160 returns, call a Gas Safe engineer.
Fan replacement runs £200–£380 including parts and labour. On a Baxi 600 or 800 series under 10 years old, it is straightforwardly worth doing.
Common questions about the Baxi E160 fault
What does a Baxi E160 fault code mean?
Can I fix a Baxi E160 fault myself?
Why does my Baxi boiler show E160 in cold weather?
How much does a Baxi E160 repair cost in London?
Is a Baxi E160 fault dangerous?
Other Baxi fault codes
Need a Baxi engineer in London?
Reion is Gas Safe registered (919881), based in South London, and available 24/7. Fixed price after the diagnostic visit — no hidden charges.
