Potterton E160 Fault Code
The E160 fault is triggered when the Potterton PCB cannot confirm the fan is running at the correct speed, or the air pressure switch has not triggered during the fan proving sequence. The boiler refuses to ignite until flue clearance is confirmed safe. A Gas Safe engineer is required for diagnosis and repair.
What is the Potterton E160 fault code?
The Potterton 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 flue gases can escape safely before ignition is permitted. Without this confirmation, the boiler locks out. The fault can originate at the fan motor, APS, the connecting hose, the flue terminal, or the condensate system. Because Potterton shares the BDR Thermea platform with Baxi, the E160 code, fan components, and APS are the same across both brands.
What causes the E160 fault?
A failing motor runs too slowly to generate sufficient flue draught for the APS to confirm clearance. Common on Potterton boilers over 10 years old.
A bird nest, debris, or obstruction at the flue outlet restricts airflow. E160 triggers even if the fan is running correctly.
A cracked APS diaphragm or failed contacts show E160 even when the fan is running at full speed.
A cracked or loose hose between the APS and fan assembly prevents the switch from detecting fan pressure.
A blocked condensate trap creates backpressure in the flue gas path, mimicking a blocked flue and triggering E160.
In cold weather, ice blocks the condensate drain — creating the same backpressure effect. E160 resolves immediately once thawed.
What you can safely check yourself
If safely visible from the ground or an accessible window, inspect the flue terminal for obvious blockages. Do not reach inside the terminal or attempt to clear it at height.
In cold weather, pour warm (not boiling) water over the external condensate pipe until it drains freely. Then attempt one reset.
Hold the reset button for 3 seconds. Listen for the fan starting within 5 seconds of reset. If E160 returns, call a Gas Safe 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 full flue run for blockages
- Test air pressure switch continuity at rest and under pressure
- Inspect APS hose for splits, kinks, or loose connections
- Clear or replace a blocked condensate trap
- Check PCB fan control circuit if all other components test correctly
Many properties in Wandsworth, Merton, Lewisham, Lambeth, Southwark, Greenwich, and Bromley run Potterton Gold and Promax boilers 10–15 years old — within the fan motor wear window. The failure pattern mirrors Baxi exactly, since the same fan assembly is used across both brands. Annual servicing includes a fan speed check to catch degradation before it causes E160 lockout.
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 Potterton boiler showing E160
In winter: thaw the condensate pipe with warm water before resetting.
Check the flue terminal for visible blockages.
Hold the reset button for 3 seconds.
Listen for the fan starting within 5 seconds.
If E160 returns, call a Gas Safe engineer.
Fan replacement runs £200–£380 on a Potterton boiler. On a Gold or Titanium model under 10 years old, fan replacement is straightforwardly worth doing. Because Potterton shares the BDR Thermea platform with Baxi, fan motors are widely available and Reion carries common sizes.
Common questions about the Potterton E160 fault
What does a Potterton E160 fault code mean?
Is the Potterton E160 the same as Baxi E160?
Can I fix a Potterton E160 fault myself?
Why does my Potterton boiler show E160 in cold weather?
How much does a Potterton E160 repair cost in London?
Other Potterton fault codes
Need a Potterton 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.
