Demystifying the Worcester Bosch EA Fault Code: Causes and Solutions

If you own a Worcester Bosch boiler and have encountered the EA fault code on its display, you may be wondering what it means and how to fix it. The EA fault code is a common error code that can occur on Worcester Bosch boilers, and it indicates a problem with the boiler's ignition sequence.

The boiler will attempt to ignite the gas in the combustion chamber, if it fails it will wait 60 seconds before attempting again. If after the third attempt your boiler still fails to ignite, it will lock-out to a safety state aka EA fault.

In this article, we will explore the possible causes of the Worcester Bosch EA fault code and provide you with some solutions on how to troubleshoot and fix the issue.

Possible Causes of the Worcester Bosch EA Fault Code:

1. Ignition Failure: The EA fault code can be triggered when the boiler fails to ignite, which could be due to a lack of gas supply, a faulty ignition electrode, or a blocked pilot assembly.
2. Flue Issues: Blocked or restricted flue can also cause the EA fault code to appear. A blocked flue prevents the safe discharge of combustion gases, leading to a shutdown of the boiler as a safety measure.
3. Air Pressure Switch: The air pressure switch is responsible for detecting the correct airflow in the boiler. If it detects a fault in the air pressure, it may trigger the EA fault code.
4. Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring, loose connections, or a malfunctioning control board can also cause the EA fault code to appear.
5. Faulty Components: Other faulty components, such as the gas valve, fan, or printed circuit board (PCB), can also trigger the EA fault code.

How to Fix the Worcester Bosch EA Fault Code:

The Worcester Bosch EA fault code should always be inspected by a Gas Safe registered heating engineer. The code indicates a possible fault with the gas, and/or flue system and shouldn’t be ignored. Resetting your Worcester Bosch EA fault may temporarily clear the problem, but the root cause might still be present and will need urgent attention.

Below, we’ll list the checks a registered gas engineer should perform to diagnose the exact reason your boiler is displaying an EA fault code:

1. Check Gas Supply: Ensure that there is an adequate gas supply to the boiler by checking the gas meter and other gas appliances in your home. If the gas supply is interrupted, contact your gas supplier.
2. Reset the Boiler: Try resetting the boiler by switching it off and then on again after a few minutes. This may help reset the ignition sequence and clear the fault code.
3. Check Flue: Inspect the flue for any blockages or restrictions. If you find any debris, soot, or other obstructions, clear them carefully following the manufacturer's instructions.
4. Check Air Pressure Switch: Check the air pressure switch for any visible damage or loose connections. If necessary, replace the air pressure switch as per the manufacturer's guidelines.
5. Check Electrical Connections: Inspect the wiring and connections of the boiler for any loose, damaged, or frayed wires. Tighten or replace them as needed.
6. Check Components: Your Gas Safe registered heating engineer should also check the gas valve, fan, and PCB for any faults or damage. If necessary, replace the faulty components as per the manufacturer's instructions.

How much will it cost to fix a Worcester Bosch EA boiler fault?

Boiler repair costs for a Worcester Bosch boiler with an "EA" fault will depend on the exact cause of the issue and the extent of repairs required. In some cases, the boiler fix may be relatively simple and inexpensive, such as cleaning or replacing a faulty ignition component. However, if the fault is more complex and requires replacement of major components, the cost may be higher.

If the fault is a blocked flue, or low water pressure you’ll likely only be charged one or two hours labour. If its an emergency boiler repair and needs a fan or PCB, the price could rapidly increase north of £500

Depending on the age, previous history and reliability, you might consider a new boiler installation, or boiler replacement.

Encountering the Worcester Bosch EA fault code can be frustrating, but with proper troubleshooting and diagnosis, it can usually be resolved. A regular boiler service, or service plan will help to spot faults before they materialise and prevent time without heating and hot water as much as possible. By checking the gas supply, resetting the boiler, inspecting the flue, air pressure switch, electrical connections, and components, you can potentially temporarily resolve the issue yourself. However, if you are not confident in your abilities, it is always best to seek the assistance of a qualified boiler repair engineer to ensure a safe and effective resolution. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines when troubleshooting and fixing any boiler issues, and to keep up regular boiler servicing as recommended in your manufacturers instructions.