Worcester Bosch EA Error Code Causes & Fixes

Seeing an error code flash on your boiler display can be unsettling, especially when the heating and hot water go off. If you have a Worcester Bosch boiler, one of the more common fault codes you might encounter is the EA error.

This guide is for UK homeowners and landlords who need to understand what this code means, what might be causing it, and what steps you can take to resolve the issue safely. We will cover simple checks you can perform yourself and explain when it’s time to call a professional.

What is the Worcester Bosch EA Error Code?

The EA error code on a Worcester Bosch boiler signals a flame detection failure. In simple terms, your boiler has attempted to ignite several times (typically up to four attempts, depending on the model), but it has not been able to detect a stable flame. As a safety measure, the boiler then locks out, displaying the EA code to prevent any unburnt gas from being released into your property. This is a critical safety feature designed to protect you and your home.

This fault can appear on various models, such as the Greenstar i, Greenstar Si, and Greenstar CDi ranges, including popular combi, system, and regular boilers. While the underlying cause is always a failure to detect a flame, several different issues can lead to this problem.

Common Causes of the EA Fault Code

Understanding the potential causes can help diagnose the problem. The EA error is typically linked to an issue with the gas supply or an internal component responsible for ignition and flame detection.

1. Gas Supply Problems

The most straightforward cause is an interruption to your home’s gas supply. If the boiler isn’t receiving gas, it cannot create a flame.

• Prepayment Meter: If you use a prepayment gas meter, it may have run out of credit.
• Gas Valve Turned Off: The gas supply valve to the boiler or the main valve to your property may have been accidentally turned off. This can sometimes happen during other maintenance work in the home.
• Works in Your Area: Your gas supplier may have temporarily shut off the gas supply to carry out maintenance on the network in your street or local area.

2. Frozen Condensate Pipe

Modern condensing boilers, like those from Worcester Bosch, produce a small amount of acidic water called condensate. This is drained away via a plastic pipe, which usually runs to an external drain. During cold winter spells, this pipe can freeze, causing a blockage. The boiler’s sensors will detect this backup and initiate a lockout to prevent damage, sometimes resulting in an EA error.

3. Faulty Ignition or Flame Sensor Electrode

Inside your boiler, an electrode is responsible for creating the spark to ignite the gas, and a flame sensor (or flame detection electrode) confirms that a flame is present and stable.

• Degradation: Over time, these electrodes can become worn, corroded, or covered in debris, which prevents them from functioning correctly.
• Poor Positioning: The electrodes may have shifted out of the correct position, meaning they cannot effectively spark or detect the flame.

4. Low Gas Pressure

Even if your gas supply is on, the pressure might be too low for the boiler to operate safely. Worcester Bosch boilers require a specific level of gas pressure to ignite. Low working pressure can result from problems with the gas meter, pipe sizing, or the regulator—these are not issues that can be fixed by a homeowner. If the pressure drops below this threshold, the boiler will fail to light and will lock out, showing the EA code. This is a job for a Gas Safe registered engineer to diagnose, as it requires specialist equipment.

5. Blocked Flue

The flue is the large pipe that carries harmful exhaust gases away from your boiler and outside your home. In some cases, issues affecting safe combustion, such as a flue blockage, can contribute to ignition failure and an EA lockout.

How to Fix a Worcester Bosch EA Error: DIY Checks

Before calling an engineer, there are a few simple and safe checks you can perform. These steps can help you rule out basic issues and potentially get your heating back on quickly.

Step 1: Check Your Gas Supply

First, confirm that other gas appliances in your home are working. Try lighting a gas hob or checking a gas fire.

• If other appliances work: The issue is likely isolated to the boiler.
• If other appliances do not work: The problem is with your gas supply. Check your prepayment meter for credit. If that’s not the issue, check with your gas supplier about any local works. Ensure the main gas valve at your meter is in the ‘on’ position.

Step 2: Reset Your Boiler

Once you have confirmed the gas supply is active, you can try resetting your boiler. On most Worcester Bosch models, this involves turning the main control knob to the ‘Reset’ position and holding it for a few seconds, or pressing a dedicated ‘Reset’ button. The boiler will then attempt its ignition sequence again. If the EA code disappears and the boiler fires up, the problem may be resolved. However, if the code returns, do not reset it repeatedly, as this could indicate a more serious underlying fault. If the boiler keeps going back into lockout soon after a reset, turn it off and call an engineer.

Step 3: Inspect the Condensate Pipe

If the weather is cold, check your boiler’s condensate pipe. This is a plastic pipe (usually white, grey, or black) that runs from the bottom of your boiler to an outside drain.

• Locate the pipe: Find where it exits your property.
• Check for a blockage: If it feels very cold or you can see ice, it has likely frozen.
• Thaw the pipe safely: You can thaw the pipe by pouring warm water (not boiling) over the frozen section. You can also use a hot water bottle or a microwaveable heat pack wrapped around the pipe. Once thawed, you should hear a gurgling sound as the trapped water is released.
• Reset the boiler: After thawing the pipe, reset your boiler.

When to Call a Gas Safe Registered Engineer

If the steps above do not resolve the EA error code, it is time to call a professional. For safety and legal reasons, any work on the internal components of a gas boiler must only be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

You must call an engineer if you suspect the issue is:

• A faulty ignition or flame sensor electrode.
• Low gas pressure.
• A blocked flue.
• A faulty gas valve.

An engineer has the correct tools and expertise to diagnose the fault accurately and replace any necessary parts safely. You can find a local, qualified professional on the official Gas Safe Register website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does the EA error code mean on my Worcester boiler?

The EA error code means your boiler has failed to detect a flame after attempting to ignite. As a safety precaution, it has locked out to prevent a potential gas leak.

Can I fix the EA error myself?

You can perform basic checks, such as ensuring your gas supply is on, your prepayment meter has credit, and your condensate pipe is not frozen. If these checks do not solve the problem, you must call a Gas Safe registered engineer.

How do I reset my Worcester Bosch boiler after an EA error?

To reset your boiler, turn the main control dial to the ‘Reset’ position for about five seconds or press the dedicated reset button. If the code reappears, do not keep resetting it. This indicates a persistent fault that needs professional attention.

How much does it cost to fix an EA error code?

The cost depends entirely on the cause. If it’s a simple fix like a frozen condensate pipe that you can do yourself, it costs nothing. If you need an engineer, a call-out fee will apply. The final cost will depend on whether any parts, like a gas valve or an ignition electrode, need replacing.

Could a new boiler be a better option?

If your boiler is old, inefficient, and requires frequent repairs, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to invest in a new, reliable model. Modern A-rated boilers can significantly reduce your energy bills and come with long warranties for peace of mind. Explore our range of combi boilers for an efficient upgrade.