Boiler will not fire and indicates 'Low Water', 'LWCO', or low water cutoff fault; gauge may show low or zero pressure.
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Never add water to a hot, dry boiler. Allow the boiler to cool. Steam boilers are especially dangerous if fired dry.
- 1. Check system pressure: Read the pressure gauge. For hot water Weil-McLain boilers, cold fill is typically 12–15 psi. If pressure is low, the system may need water.
- 2. Inspect automatic fill valve: Locate the pressure reducing valve (auto-fill). Ensure the manual shutoff valve feeding it is open. Lift the fast-fill lever briefly to see if water flows and pressure rises.
- 3. Check for leaks: Look for visible leaks at radiators, relief valve discharge, boiler piping, or under the boiler. Repair leaks before refilling.
- 4. Reset LWCO: Some low water cutoffs (probe or float type) have a manual reset button. After restoring proper water level/pressure, press reset.
- 5. Clean LWCO probe (if accessible): With power off and boiler drained to below the probe, remove the LWCO probe and clean mineral buildup with a Scotch-Brite pad. Reinstall with new gasket if required.
If the LWCO continues to trip, or if you are unsure how to safely restore water level, contact a professional.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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