Baxi E153 Fault Code: Causes, Fixes & Repair Costs
What does the Baxi E153 fault code mean?
The E153 code appears on Baxi boilers when the control system detects that the reset button has been pressed at an unsuitable moment — for example, during an active firing sequence, mid-cycle, or at a point where no genuine lockout condition exists. The boiler flags this as a permanent fault and requires a deliberate, correctly timed reset to clear it. In most cases this is a control-related issue rather than a mechanical or component failure, though persistent occurrences can point to a faulty reset button or a deeper PCB problem. Note that Baxi codes are displayed in two parts on the panel — always wait for the full code to finish cycling before diagnosing, as E153 is distinct from other E1xx codes such as E119 or E133.
General guidance only — not a substitute for professional advice, and not certified by a Gas Safe engineer. Always have your specific appliance assessed by a qualified professional. Any gas work must be carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer. If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide, leave the property and call the National Gas Emergency line on 0800 111 999.
Common causes
- Reset button pressed at the wrong moment Common
The most frequent trigger. If the reset button is pressed while the boiler is actively attempting to fire, mid-ignition sequence, or during normal operation when no lockout has occurred, the control board interprets this as an inappropriate command and raises E153.
- Accidental or repeated button presses Common
Homeowners attempting to clear a separate fault code sometimes press reset multiple times in quick succession, or hold it for too long. Any of these actions can confuse the boiler's control logic and generate E153 even when the original fault has already cleared.
- Stuck or damaged reset button Sometimes
If the reset button is physically jammed in a partially depressed position, or if the button's internal contacts are worn, the PCB may continuously receive an inappropriate reset signal. This can cause E153 to return immediately after every attempted clear.
- PCB or control board fault Rare
On the same Baxi Power HT range, E151 relates to a circuit board error and E154 to an internal control module fault. If E153 cannot be cleared through a normal reset and the button itself appears fine, the underlying control board may be misinterpreting signals — a wider PCB issue could be to blame.
How to fix it
- Check the boiler display carefully before doing anything DIY safe
Make sure you are reading the complete fault code. Baxi displays codes in two parts, so wait for the full sequence to finish cycling. Confirm you are seeing E153 in its entirety and not a partial display of a different code such as E133 or E119.
- Perform a correct 2-second reset DIY safe
Press and hold the reset button on your Baxi boiler for approximately two seconds, then release it. This is the manufacturer's own recommended first action for E153. Allow the boiler a full minute to attempt to restart. Do not press the button repeatedly or hold it for much longer than two seconds, as this can re-trigger the fault.
- Observe whether the boiler fires successfully DIY safe
Watch the boiler for a few minutes after the reset. If it lights successfully and the fault code clears, monitor it over the next few hours to check it does not return. If it fires normally, no further action is needed immediately.
- Attempt a second reset if the code returns once DIY safe
If E153 reappears shortly after the first reset, try the correct 2-second press one more time. Limit yourself to two or three attempts in total. Repeated resets beyond this without a successful start will not fix an underlying fault and can mask other problems.
- Call a Gas Safe registered engineer if the fault persists Gas Safe engineer
If E153 keeps returning after two or three correctly performed resets, there is likely a physical or electrical issue involved — a sticking reset button, damaged wiring to the control panel, or a PCB fault. A Gas Safe engineer will inspect the reset switch for continuity and physical damage, check all wiring connections to the control board, and test or replace the PCB if necessary.
Parts you may need
- Reset button / switch assembly · from £35
- Boiler PCB (control board) · from £280
- Control panel wiring loom · from £55
The exact spare depends on your boiler's GC number (on the data badge). Check this against the part before buying.
Typical repair cost
Expect to pay roughly £90–£300, depending on the underlying cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I fix Baxi E153 myself without calling an engineer?
In many cases, yes — at least initially. The manufacturer's own guidance is simply to press the reset button correctly for around two seconds. If this clears the fault and it does not return, no engineer visit is needed. However, if E153 comes back repeatedly or will not clear at all, you should call a Gas Safe registered engineer, as there may be a faulty reset button or a PCB problem that requires professional diagnosis.
Why does my Baxi keep showing E153 every time I reset it?
If E153 returns immediately each time you attempt a reset, the most likely culprits are a physically stuck or damaged reset button, or a PCB that is misreading the button signal. A Gas Safe engineer can test the button's contacts, check the wiring, and determine whether the control board needs replacing. A PCB swap on a Baxi boiler typically costs in the region of £250–£400 including labour, though prices vary by model.
Is E153 dangerous — will my boiler still produce hot water and heating?
E153 is a control-level fault rather than a safety-critical issue such as a gas leak or carbon monoxide warning, so it does not pose an immediate danger. However, because the boiler is in a fault state it will not operate normally until the code is cleared. You should not attempt to force the boiler to run while a persistent fault code is displayed.
How is E153 different from other Baxi E1xx codes?
Baxi uses the E1 prefix across a range of faults, so it is important to read the full code on your display. E153 specifically means the reset key was used inappropriately. Nearby codes have entirely different meanings: E151 relates to a circuit board error, E154 to an internal control module fault, E119 typically points to a low water pressure issue, and E133 indicates an ignition or gas supply problem. Always confirm the complete two-part code before attempting any diagnosis or fix.