Ideal L2 fault code: ignition lockout

Ideal L2 is a flame loss or ignition lockout. The display shows a flashing L followed by a 2, and it means the boiler tried to light, couldn’t hold a flame and locked itself out. Ideal’s advice starts with a reset, then three checks on the gas: credit on a pay-as-you-go meter, your other gas appliances and the yellow isolation valve. If that doesn’t clear it, Ideal asks you to call quoting the code.

What the Ideal L2 fault code means

The boiler lights the gas, checks that a flame is present and keeps it going. L2 means that check failed. Either the flame never established, or it went out. After a failed attempt the boiler locks out as a safeguard, which is why a reset is the first step.

F2 is the same fault, shown with an F in place of the L, and Ideal gives the same steps for it. The two are worth knowing apart from L5, which is not a gas fault. L5 means the boiler has been reset too many times in a short window, and Ideal says to switch it off and on again.

How to clear Ideal L2

Ideal’s own steps, in the order it gives them:

1. Reset the boiler. Your manual shows how for your model.
2. Check your gas credit. If you pay as you go, a meter without credit cuts off the gas.
3. Check other gas appliances. If your hob or fire doesn’t work, the supply is the problem.
4. Check the yellow gas isolation valve. Confirm that it is open.

Ideal also says that if you hear a gurgling noise when the boiler tries to ignite, you should contact your installer. That sound points to a problem that a reset won’t fix.

When Ideal L2 needs a call

If the reset and the checks don’t clear L2, Ideal says to call it and quote the code. If the boiler’s warranty has expired, an installer or Gas Safe registered engineer is the person to ring. In either case, have the make and model to hand, and tell them what you have already tried.

A lockout that comes back within days needs the cause found, whether that is a part, a gas supply issue or something in the flue. Don’t keep resetting it. Don’t open the casing either, because the inside of a boiler is no place for a homeowner. If you smell gas, leave the property and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.

Fault codes on other makes and models

The pressure code on these boilers is Ideal F1, which has a different fix. Vaillant’s equivalent of this lockout is Vaillant F28. Our guide to boiler fault codes explains how to read any code.

When Ideal L2 points to a new boiler

If lockouts become routine, or the repair quotes start to approach the price of a replacement, it is worth pricing one. A like-for-like combi boiler swap is the cheapest replacement, and our combi boiler prices page shows what each type and model costs fitted. When you are ready, get free quotes from local Gas Safe installers.

Source: Ideal Heating, what does my fault code mean, read on 3 November. Check your own manual for your model.