Alpha Boiler Troubleshooting

Alpha boilers are an extremely popular brand across the UK, but this doesn’t mean they run perfectly all the time.

In this guide, we’ll discuss common Alpha boiler issues, what signs to look out for and common error codes you may encounter.

Do Alpha boilers have a warranty?

Yes, Alpha boilers do come with a warranty that usually lasts between 7-10 years, depending on the model.

Alpha do offer an extended warranty with their products by adding on the PremierPack wall-mounting, however, this isn't compulsory.

Common Alpha boiler problems

Just like any boiler brand, Alpha boilers will show common heating issues. Knowing what issues to be aware of can help you troubleshoot minor problems and understand when you may need to call a professional engineer. 

Alpha boiler not firing up

If your Alpha boiler is showing the error code E01 and it isn’t firing up, you will likely have a problem with the ignition system. This means that there was no flame detected when your boiler tried to light the burner to heat up the water.

There are a few issues that could be causing this problem:

Alpha boiler not responding to thermostats

If your Alpha boiler isn’t responding to the thermostat, it could be due to a number of issues such as low water pressure, a faulty pump or even a faulty thermostat.

If you think your thermostat may be the issue, you should start by ensuring the batteries are charged and working. If this is not the issue, you should reset your thermostat and ensure that it is in range of the boiler and isn’t obstructed by anything.

If the thermostat isn’t the issue, you should next look at the pressure gauge on your boiler. If your boiler is low on pressure, you will need to top it up. You can often do this yourself and we even have a boiler pressure guide to help you through the process. 

Alpha boiler firing but no hot water

A lack of hot water even though the boiler is firing up is a common issue with Alpha boilers. There are a few different reasons why this may happen, including a faulty thermostat, issues with the airlocks or problems with the diverter valve.

Sometimes, you will be able to release a stuck diverter valve, but in a lot of cases it will likely need to be replaced instead.

Alpha boiler not heating water to temperature 

If your water is heating up, but it is only warm rather than hot, then there may be two issues to be aware of: thermistor sensor fault and limescale build-up.

The thermistor on your boiler monitors the heat exchanger sensor. The issue here could be a faulty exchanger sensor that is telling the boiler to stop heating at a certain temperature, resulting in low water temperatures.

If it is not the thermistor at fault, then it is probably caused by a build-up of limescale in the pipes. Our specialist heating engineers can either run a chemical power flush through your heating system to help break down the limescale or replace the pipes where necessary.

How do you fix the pressure on an Alpha boiler?

If you have low boiler pressure, your Alpha boiler will probably be showing the fault code E10 and the pressure gauge will also show low pressure.

As we’ve mentioned previously with issues to do with the thermostat, you will need to top-up your boiler using the filling loop found under the boiler.

Start by turning off your boiler and allow it to cool. Once you’ve located the filling loop, you should open both valves to allow water to flow into the system. Keep an eye on the pressure gauge and slowly add water until the pressure reaches the recommended level. Close both valves, put the filling loop back and turn your boiler back on.

If your boiler's pressure drops again after you have topped it up, you may have a water leak. You should look at the floor below and around your boiler for any leaks. You should check around radiators and their valves and also if you have any wet patches on your ceilings. Finding a leak quickly is essential, otherwise you risk damaging both your heating system and your home.

Regardless of whether you do or don’t find a leak, if you are in this situation, you should call a plumber to help you as soon as possible.

How do you find the error codes on an Alpha boiler?

Error codes on Alpha boilers can be found on the LED control panel and they will show as either flashing red or yellow lights.

We always recommend having your Alpha boiler user guide handy so you can quickly find what the error code means. If you don’t have your user guide, we suggest looking on the Alpha site as the different models may have their own specific codes for certain boiler errors.

Common Alpha boiler fault lights

Listed below are some common Alpha boiler fault codes and what they mean:

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