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Heat pumps · Error codes · NIBE
166NIBE · NIBE, all models

166 on a NIBE heat pump: Electrical anode incorrect: Fault in the electrical anode [other NIBE documents: Electrical anode fault]

Short answer

On a NIBE heat pump, 166 means: Electrical anode incorrect: Fault in the electrical anode [other NIBE documents: Electrical anode fault]. The manual does not say whether the heat pump stops.

Reviewed 23 September 2026 · 1 source

What it means

The manuals for this range word it in different ways:

  • Electrical anode incorrect: Fault in the electrical anode [other NIBE documents: Electrical anode fault].
  • Low pressure alarm: F1145: low pressure sensor below limit; others: low pressure switch triggered.

Part involved: temperature limiter / anode; pressure switches/sensors, expansion valve.

When it shows: Fault in the electrical anode; Electrical anode fault F1145: low pressure sensor below limit; others: low pressure switch triggered.

Likely causes:

  • Check electrical anode, its circuit board and cables.

Is it safe?

Does the heat pump stop?Not stated
SeverityInformation only

The manual does not say whether the heat pump stops.

Resetting itself: yes - information messages reset automatically when the cause is rectified.

Manual reset: Reset from the controller alarm menu ('reset alarm' / 'Reset alarm and try again'); alarm recurs if the cause remains.

What you can check

  • Read the alarm text and the 'info/action' help on the controller display (VVM/SMO or S-series smartguide). NIBE's manuals let the homeowner select 'reset alarm' ('Reset alarm and try again' on S-series); if the lamp returns to normal the alarm has cleared. If it comes back, do not keep resetting: select 'aid mode' ('Auxiliary operation' on S-series) if offered, so any electric additional heat keeps heat/hot water going, and contact your installer.
  • Read the alarm text and the 'info/action' help on the controller display (VVM/SMO or S-series smartguide). NIBE's manuals let the homeowner select 'reset alarm' ('Reset alarm and try again' on S-series); if the lamp returns to normal the alarm has cleared. If it comes back, do not keep resetting: select 'aid mode' ('Auxiliary operation' on S-series) if offered, so any electric additional heat keeps heat/hot water going, and contact your installer. Air source systems: check the outdoor unit is clear of leaves/snow/ice. Read the heating system pressure gauge and note the reading for your installer.

What the engineer will check

  • Check temperature limiter (reset button inside unit), immersion heater and electrical anode circuit. NIBE lists: Check electrical anode, its circuit board and cables.
  • Check heating medium flow, particle filter and circulation pump; check pressure switches/sensors, expansion valve, service valves and refrigerant charge (F-gas qualified).

Who to ask for: NIBE-trained heat pump installer (NIBE PRO / VIP); Heat pump engineer with F-gas qualification (NIBE-trained / NIBE PRO installer).

Certification: None specific beyond competent heat pump installer; electrical work to BS 7671; F-gas certification for refrigerant circuit work (plus flammable-refrigerant competence for R290/R32 models).

What you might notice

Sources

A code explains what the controller detected, not a confirmed root cause.

Reviewed: 23 September 2026