Potterton E317 / 162 fault code explained

Potterton fault code E317 / 162 means the boiler has detected the wrong power-supply electrical frequency, measured in hertz (Hz). Baxi Heating UK’s current official error-code table includes the Potterton Assure Combi and Potterton Assure System in the appliance group that uses this code.

This is an electrical-supply frequency code. It is not a low gas-pressure warning, a water-pressure fault or the same condition as an under-voltage code. Keep the casing closed and do not test mains wiring yourself.

What does Potterton E317 / 162 mean?

The UK electricity supply alternates at a set frequency. The boiler’s electronic controls expect the incoming supply to remain within the operating conditions for which the appliance was designed. E317—or 162 on some display formats—appears when the control system detects an electrical frequency it considers incorrect.

The display identifies the type of condition but not its source. An engineer must consider the exact Potterton model, the fault history and the circumstances around the event before deciding what needs repairing.

Which Potterton boilers use E317 or 162?

Baxi’s current manufacturer error-code table lists Potterton Assure Combi and System in the group that uses E317 / 162. The same table covers several related Baxi and Main products because they share aspects of control technology, but that does not mean every Potterton boiler uses this code.

Look for the model name on the outside of the closed boiler or in the user paperwork. Do not remove a panel to find an internal data label. When you book a repair, provide the code exactly as displayed and the model if known.

Is E317 / 162 a low-voltage fault?

No. The manufacturer lists E317 / 162 as wrong electrical supply frequency. It lists E385 / 165 separately as under-voltage. Voltage and frequency are different properties of an electrical supply, even though either can stop a boiler from operating normally.

This difference is important because generic “power fault” advice can be misleading. Recording all digits and symbols from the display helps the engineer use the correct information.

Why might this code appear?

The fault can be recorded when the boiler electronics see a supply frequency outside their expected range. The code alone does not show whether the condition came from the incoming supply, a temporary interruption, a generator or backup source, the property’s electrical installation or the boiler controls.

Those are areas for qualified people to assess, not conclusions to make from the display. It is useful to note whether the fault followed a power cut, electrical work, use of temporary power or a wider local supply disturbance. Do not connect the boiler to a generator, inverter or extension lead to test it.

What symptoms can accompany Potterton E317 / 162?

You may notice:

• the boiler display is illuminated but heating and hot water stop;
• the code appears shortly after power is restored;
• the boiler starts and then blocks operation;
• the fault returns when a heating or hot-water demand begins; or
• lights or other appliances behaved unusually at the same time.

These observations can help establish a timeline, but they cannot identify the location of the fault. A boiler may be the first appliance to report an irregular supply because its control system monitors operating conditions closely.

What can I safely check?

Keep checks simple and external:

• Write down whether the display shows E317, 162 or an alternating combination.
• Record the Potterton model from visible markings or paperwork.
• Check whether both heating and hot water are affected.
• Observe whether ordinary household lights and appliances have power.
• Note any recent power interruption or electrical work.
• Ask whether neighbours also lost power if that is straightforward and safe.

Do not open the boiler, fused spur, sockets, wiring centre or consumer unit. Do not use a multimeter or attempt to measure voltage or frequency. Mains electricity can cause serious injury, and boiler electrical work must be carried out by someone with the appropriate competence.

If the exact Potterton user instructions permit one ordinary reset, follow only that published step once. Do not repeatedly reset a returning E317 / 162 fault. A reset cannot correct an unsuitable supply condition or repair a confirmed electrical fault.

Should I contact a boiler engineer or an electrician?

A Gas Safe registered boiler engineer is a sensible first contact when the code is being displayed by the Potterton boiler. They can confirm the appliance model, read the stored fault information and assess whether the boiler requires repair.

If evidence points to the property’s fixed electrical installation, a qualified electrician may also be needed. If a wider incoming-supply problem is suspected, the electricity network operator can advise. The professionals involved can decide who needs to act without asking you to test live electrical equipment.

When is the situation urgent?

Switch the boiler off only if it is safe to do so and seek urgent electrical help if you notice a burning smell, smoke, scorching, significant light flicker or repeated tripping. Do not keep trying the appliance to see whether the condition clears.

Although E317 / 162 is an electrical-frequency code, normal gas-safety rules still apply. If you smell gas or suspect fumes, do not use electrical switches or naked flames. Leave the property and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 from a safe place. If a carbon-monoxide alarm sounds, leave immediately and follow its emergency instructions.

What will the engineer consider?

The engineer can confirm the model and code, review the boiler’s history and use the correct Potterton service information. Appropriate professionals can then assess the permanent supply arrangement and boiler controls with suitable test equipment.

The aim is to separate an external supply problem from an appliance fault before parts are changed. Once the cause is confirmed, the correct repair can be completed and the boiler checked for safe operation.

Book a fixed-price repair for Potterton E317 / 162

This code needs careful electrical and boiler checks, not DIY testing. A fixed-price boiler repair provides a clear price and an engineer visit focused on getting your Potterton working safely again.