How to Reset a Viessmann Boiler: Step By Step

How to Reset a Viessmann Boiler

To reset a Viessmann boiler, fix the cause of the fault first, then use the reset function on the control panel. On current Vitodens 050-W, 100-W and 111-W models, press and hold both arrow buttons together for about four seconds until a rotating bar appears. Older Vitodens models have a dedicated Reset button. If the same fault comes back, Viessmann’s advice is not to keep resetting but to contact your heating engineer.

This guide covers where to find the reset on each Vitodens model, what to check before you reset, the step-by-step process and which fault codes need a Gas Safe registered engineer. For an overview of what individual codes mean, see our guide to common Viessmann boiler problems.

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Where Is the Reset Button on a Viessmann Boiler?

Most current Viessmann Vitodens boilers don’t have a separate reset button. The reset is built into the control panel and is carried out by pressing two buttons at the same time.

Model Control Panel How to Reset
Vitodens 050-W (current models) Display with arrow buttons and Lightguide light strip Hold both arrow buttons together for about 4 seconds
Vitodens 100-W and 111-W (current models) Black and white touchscreen display Hold both navigation arrow buttons together for about 4 seconds
Vitodens 200-W Touchscreen control (varies by model generation) Follow the burner fault reset prompt on the display, as set out in your operating instructions
Older Vitodens models Dials and buttons with a fault code display Press the Reset button once the cause has been fixed

When a Viessmann boiler locks out, a flashing fault symbol and code appear on the display. On the Vitodens 050-W, the Lightguide strip also flashes quickly. On older models, a flashing fault code needs a manual reset, while a code that is shown constantly clears by itself once the cause has gone.

The model name is shown on the front of the boiler casing and in your operating instructions. If you’re unsure which version you have, check the manual before pressing any buttons.

What to Check Before Resetting a Viessmann Boiler

A reset only works if the cause of the fault has gone, so run through these checks first:

  • Power: make sure the boiler’s ON/OFF switch is on, the fused spur is switched on and no breaker has tripped in the consumer unit.
  • Water pressure: Viessmann’s operating instructions say to top up the system if the pressure shown is below 1.0 bar.
  • Gas supply: check that other gas appliances work and that a prepayment meter has credit. Never try to adjust or inspect gas pipework or components yourself.
  • Condensate pipe: in freezing weather, a frozen condensate pipe can cause the boiler to lock out.
  • Controls: check the thermostat is set above room temperature and the timer or ViCare schedule is calling for heat.
  • Air in the system: if radiators are cold at the top, bleed them and then recheck the pressure.

If the pressure is low, our guide on how to repressurise Viessmann boilers explains how to top up using the filling loop.

If the condensate pipe running outside is frozen, thaw it with warm (not boiling) water before resetting. Our guide to a frozen condensate pipe explains how to do this safely.

How to Reset a Viessmann Boiler: Step by Step

  1. Note the fault code. Write down or photograph the code and any message on the display, including whether it is flashing.
  2. Fix the cause. Work through the checks above and sort out anything you find, such as low pressure or a frozen condensate pipe.
  3. Reset the boiler. On a Vitodens 050-W, 100-W or 111-W, press and hold both arrow buttons together for about four seconds. A rotating bar shows the reset has started. On older models, press the Reset button. On other models, use the reset option shown on the display.
  4. Wait for the home screen. If the fault has cleared, the home screen reappears and the boiler returns to normal operation.
  5. Test the boiler. Turn up the thermostat or run a hot tap and check the boiler fires up.
  6. Stop if the fault returns. If the same code comes back, don’t keep resetting. Contact a Gas Safe registered engineer.

How Many Times Can You Reset a Viessmann Boiler?

Once, or twice at most, with the cause checked in between. Viessmann’s operating instructions say not to reset a burner fault several times in quick succession, and to notify your heating contractor if the fault recurs. A boiler that keeps locking out has a problem that needs diagnosing, and repeated resets won’t fix it.

Viessmann Fault Codes That Need a Gas Safe Engineer

Some codes point to a component inside the boiler that only a Gas Safe registered engineer should inspect. On Vitodens models that use F-series burner fault codes, Viessmann’s service instructions include:

  • F1: maximum flue gas temperature exceeded
  • F2: the temperature limiter has tripped (overheating), often linked to low pressure, pump or circulation problems
  • F3: a flame signal is present at burner start
  • F4: no flame signal, which can be caused by the ignition electrode, the gas supply or gas train, or a blocked condensate drain
  • F8: the fuel valve is closing too late
  • F9, FA and FC: fan or fan control faults
  • Fd and FF: burner control unit faults

Code meanings can vary between Vitodens generations, so always check against the manual for your model. Our guides to the Viessmann F1 fault code, Viessmann F2 fault code and Viessmann F5 fault code cover those codes in more detail.

You should also call an engineer if the boiler keeps losing pressure, water is leaking from the boiler or pipework, or the boiler is making loud banging or kettling noises. If you smell gas, don’t reset the boiler. Turn off the gas at the meter if it’s safe to do so, open windows and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

If your boiler is still within its warranty period, check the terms before booking a repair. Our Viessmann boiler warranty guide explains the conditions that usually apply.

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How to Reset a Viessmann Boiler: FAQs

Does a Viessmann Boiler Have a Reset Button?

Not on most current models. On the Vitodens 050-W, 100-W and 111-W, you reset a burner fault by holding both arrow buttons together for about four seconds. Older Vitodens models have a dedicated Reset button on the control panel.

Why Won’t My Viessmann Boiler Reset?

Usually because the cause of the fault is still there. Low pressure, a frozen condensate pipe or no gas supply will make the boiler lock out again straight away. If the basic checks are fine and the fault keeps returning, a component needs diagnosing by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

What Pressure Should a Viessmann Boiler Be At?

Above 1.0 bar. Viessmann’s operating instructions say to top up the system if the pressure shown is below 1.0 bar, and your installer will have set the correct fill pressure for your system. If you need to top up regularly, there may be a leak or a fault with the expansion vessel or pressure relief valve that an engineer should check.

Can I See Viessmann Fault Codes in the ViCare App?

Yes, if your Vitodens is connected to the internet and set up in the ViCare app, fault messages appear in the app. This is useful when describing a fault to an engineer, but the app shows the fault rather than diagnosing or fixing it.

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