A Step-by-Step Guide to Solving the Vaillant F22 Fault Code
How to address the Vaillant F22 fault code, what it means, possible causes and how to fix it.
As a homeowner, there are few things more frustrating than waking up to find that your boiler has stopped working.
For safety, boilers shut down automatically when they encounter a problem. The display will show a fault code and this helps homeowners and heating engineers identify what the problem is and fix it.
If you see the Vaillant F22 fault code on your display, don't panic: in this article, we'll cover everything you need to know to fix this issue.
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Key Takeaways
- F22 means low water pressure — your boiler has detected there is not enough water in the heating system.
- Check the pressure gauge — if it reads below 1 bar, the system needs topping up via the filling loop.
- You can often fix this yourself — repressurising via the filling loop is a safe DIY task.
- If pressure keeps dropping, you likely have a leak somewhere in the system and need a heating engineer.
- Normal pressure: 1.0–2.0 bar with 1.5 bar being the ideal when heating is off.
Causes of the Vaillant F22 Fault Code
First, let's start with the basics.
The Vaillant F22 fault code indicates that there is a problem with the water pressure in your boiler.
This can be caused by a few different factors, including a leak in your system or a malfunctioning pressure gauge.
Fortunately, this issue is relatively simple to diagnose and fix.
How to fix the F22 Fault Code
The first thing you should do is check your boiler's pressure gauge.
If the gauge is showing a reading below 1 bar, then it's likely that the problem is simply that your boiler's water pressure is too low.
To fix this, you'll need to top up your boiler's water pressure.
To do this, you'll need to locate your boiler's filling loop.
This is a flexible hose with two tap handles that is usually located underneath your boiler.
Once you've found it, you can follow these steps to top up your boiler's water pressure:
- Turn off your boiler and wait for it to cool down.
- Locate the two tap handles on your filling loop. These will usually be red or blue in colour.
- Turn both tap handles so that they are fully open.
- You should hear water flowing into your boiler. Keep an eye on the pressure gauge, and close the tap handles once the pressure reaches around 1.5 bar.
- Turn your boiler back on and check that the fault code has cleared.
What To Do If Repressurising Doesn't Fix The F22 Fault Code
If the F22 fault code persists after topping up your boiler's water pressure, then there may be a leak in your system.
This could be caused by a number of things, including a faulty valve or a damaged pipe.
In this case, it's best to call in a professional heating engineer to diagnose and fix the issue.
Other causes of the F22 Fault Code
It's worth noting that in some cases, the Vaillant F22 fault code can be caused by a problem with your boiler's pressure sensor.
If this is the case, then replacing the sensor may be necessary to fix the issue.
However, this is a more complex repair that should only be attempted by a trained professional.
It's worth noting that the Vaillant F22 fault code can cause your boiler to shut down, so it's important to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid any disruption to your heating and hot water.
If after reading this guide, you're still not sure or confident to fix the problem yourself, it's always best to call in a certified heating engineer to ensure that the issue is diagnosed and repaired correctly.
Why is it important to call a heating company to fix the F22 fault code?
If you encounter the F22 fault code on your Vaillant boiler, it is essential to call a heating company to fix the problem. Here are a few reasons why:
- Safety: A drop in water pressure can cause the boiler to overheat and potentially become a safety hazard. It's important to have a qualified heating engineer inspect the system to ensure that it's safe to operate.
- Efficiency: A drop in water pressure can cause the boiler to work harder and less efficiently. By calling a heating company to fix the problem, you can ensure that your boiler is operating efficiently and effectively, which means you save in heating bills.
- Expertise: A qualified heating engineer will have the expertise and experience to diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate solution. Attempting to fix the problem yourself can be dangerous and can cause further damage to your boiler.
- Warranty: If your boiler is still under warranty, attempting to fix the problem yourself could void the warranty. By calling a heating company to fix the problem, you can ensure that your warranty remains intact.
How can a heating company fix the Vaillant F22 fault code?
A qualified heating engineer will be able to diagnose the cause of the F22 fault code and recommend the appropriate solution. Here are some possible solutions:
- Fixing the water leak: If the F22 fault code is caused by a water leak, the heating engineer will need to locate and fix the leak. This may involve replacing a faulty valve, repairing a damaged pipe, or fixing a leaking radiator.
- Flushing the system: If the pipes in the system are blocked or restricted, the heating engineer may need to flush the system to remove any debris or scale build-up.
- Replacing faulty components: If the F22 fault code is caused by a faulty pressure gauge or pressure relief valve, the heating engineer may need to replace these components.
Which Vaillant Boiler Models Show the F22 Fault Code?
The F22 fault code appears across the full range of Vaillant boilers sold in the UK:
- Vaillant ecoTEC Plus (all combi, system, and regular models)
- Vaillant ecoTEC Pro (all models)
- Vaillant ecoTEC Exclusive (Green iQ range)
- Vaillant ecoFIT Pure (all models)
- Vaillant ecoFIT Sustain
The repressurising process is the same for all models — locate the filling loop underneath the boiler and follow the steps above.
How Often Should I Need to Top Up My Boiler Pressure?
A healthy heating system should hold its pressure with only occasional top-ups — perhaps once or twice a year. If you find yourself repressurising more often than that, it is a sign of an underlying problem:
- Monthly top-ups — Likely a slow leak at a radiator valve, pipe joint, or the boiler itself. Worth getting checked.
- Weekly top-ups — Almost certainly a leak that needs urgent attention. The longer you leave it, the more damage water can do to floors and ceilings.
- Pressure drops overnight — Could be a faulty expansion vessel or pressure relief valve, both of which need a heating engineer.
At Advanced Heating & Plumbing, we can carry out a full pressure test to pinpoint exactly where the water is escaping. Book a free consultation.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Vaillant F22 Fault?
The cost of fixing an F22 fault depends on the underlying cause:
- Repressurising the system (DIY) — Free. If low pressure is the only issue, topping up via the filling loop costs nothing.
- Fixing a small leak — Typically £80–£200 depending on location and accessibility of the leak.
- Replacing a faulty pressure sensor — Usually £100–£180 including parts and labour.
- Replacing a pressure relief valve — Around £120–£250.
- Full system leak detection and repair — £150–£400+ if the leak is hidden within the pipework or underfloor.
At Advanced Heating & Plumbing, we always quote the price before we start so there are no surprises. Get a free no-obligation quote.
Will My Warranty Cover an F22 Repair?
If your Vaillant boiler is still under manufacturer warranty, certain repairs may be covered — particularly if the fault relates to a defective component rather than general wear or external damage.
Important: Only a Gas Safe registered engineer should carry out repairs. DIY attempts on gas components can void your warranty and are illegal under UK gas safety regulations.
Check your Vaillant warranty status on the Vaillant warranty registration page.
Related Vaillant Fault Codes
If you're seeing the F22 fault code, these related guides may also help:
- Vaillant F29 Fault Code — Flame failed to ignite. Often caused by gas supply issues or a blocked flue.
- Vaillant F75 Fault Code — Pressure sensor or pump fault. The boiler cannot detect a pressure change when the pump starts.
- All Vaillant Fault Codes — Complete guide to every Vaillant error code and what they mean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does F22 mean on a Vaillant boiler?
The F22 fault code means your Vaillant boiler has detected low water pressure in the heating system. The boiler shuts down as a safety precaution to prevent damage from running without enough water.
Can I fix the Vaillant F22 fault code myself?
Yes, in many cases. If the issue is simply low pressure, you can repressurise your boiler using the filling loop underneath. Top up to around 1.5 bar and restart the boiler. If the pressure keeps dropping, you likely have a leak and need a Gas Safe engineer.
What pressure should a Vaillant boiler be at?
A Vaillant boiler should normally run between 1.0 and 2.0 bar, with 1.5 bar being ideal when the heating is off. If it drops below 0.8 bar, the F22 fault code will usually appear.
Why does my Vaillant boiler keep losing pressure?
Repeated pressure loss usually indicates a leak somewhere in the heating system — this could be a radiator valve, a pipe joint, or the boiler itself. It can also be caused by a faulty pressure relief valve or expansion vessel. A heating engineer can carry out a pressure test to find the source.
Is the F22 fault code dangerous?
No, the F22 fault code itself is a safety feature. The boiler locks out to prevent damage from low water pressure. However, you should address the underlying cause promptly to avoid further issues with your heating system.
Next Steps
When you experience a fault code on your Vaillant boiler, it's important to take action quickly to avoid further damage to the boiler or your home.
Remember, attempting to fix the issue yourself can be dangerous, can cause further damage to the boiler as well as invalidate the manufacturer's warranty.
Always seek advice from a qualified engineer who has the expertise and knowledge to diagnose and repair the issue safely and effectively.
If you have any further questions or concerns about the F22 fault code or your Vaillant boiler, contact us for help.
Book your appointment by contacting us today.
We cover locations in London, Watford, Hertfordshire and Middlesex.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this article is given in good faith and for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace a diagnosis from a certified or trained gas central heating engineer. The use of this information is at your own risk, and we accept no liability for any damages or losses incurred as a result of relying on this information. It is always recommended to seek the advice of a qualified professional before attempting any repairs or maintenance on your gas central heating system.
