Vaillant Ecotec Plus 418 Problems

Problem: Vaillant ecoTEC Plus 418 Error Code F.23

• The Vaillant ecoTEC Plus 418 has been reported to start up and shut off multiple times within a short span, often displaying the error code F.23. This code indicates that there’s an interruption, potentially due to water shortage, and the temperature difference between the flow and return NTC is too large.

Possible Causes and Solutions:

1. Air in the System:
   • If there’s air in the system, it might lead to problems with the boiler functioning. Unfortunately, a tenant might not have much say in this, and it might be best to approach your housing association or landlord to have it looked into.
2. Inadequate Water Flow:
   • This fault might be caused by inadequate water flow through the boiler. If increasing the pump speed might solve the problem, it would be a good idea to consult with an expert to turn the pump speed to the maximum setting and see if it resolves the issue.
3. Flow & Return Pipes Misconfiguration:
   • The F23 error can also signify that the flow and return pipes have been wrongly connected. If this is the case, you would require an engineer to correct it. A simple test you can do at home is to turn on the heating from a cold state and feel the two water pipes at the top of the boiler. The one on the right is the flow and should become hot before the one on the left.
4. Issues with NTC:
   • NTCs (Negative Temperature Coefficient thermistors) are used to measure temperature. The boiler’s error message suggests that the flow and return NTC might be interchanged, which could be a cause of the problem.
5. Water Pressure Sensor Error:
   • Some users have reported an F.73 error, which indicates an error in the water pressure sensor. This can mean there’s either an interruption or short-circuit in the water pressure sensor or its supply line.

Additional Points:

• Safety First: If you’re not familiar with the workings of boilers, it’s always best not to attempt fixing issues on your own. For instance, removing the front cover of the boiler can lead to potential dangers.
• Contacting an Expert: When facing problems with your boiler, especially if they persist, it’s always a good idea to contact a registered gas installer or professional to inspect and resolve the issue. They would have the necessary experience and expertise to safely and effectively deal with any problems.

In summary, while the Vaillant ecoTEC Plus 418 is a reliable boiler, like all appliances, it might face issues from time to time. Understanding the potential problems and their solutions can help homeowners and tenants ensure that their homes remain warm and comfortable. However, always prioritize safety and call in experts when needed.