SolarpunkHomes
Sign inCall us · +44 7510 081687
Heat pumps
Heat pumps · Error codes · NIBE
197NIBE · NIBE, all models

197 on a NIBE heat pump: Com. room unit zone 2: Temporary communication fault with room unit zone 2

Short answer

On a NIBE heat pump, 197 means: Com. room unit zone 2: Temporary communication fault with room unit zone 2. The manual does not say whether the heat pump stops.

Reviewed 23 September 2026 · 1 source

What it means

The manual says: Com. room unit zone 2: Temporary communication fault with room unit zone 2.

Part involved: PCB / accessory board communication.

When it shows: Temporary communication fault with room unit zone 2.

Is it safe?

Does the heat pump stop?Not stated
SeverityWarning

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. Check the breakers for the heat pump, indoor module and any accessories are on at the consumer unit.

What the engineer will check

  • Check communication cables and connectors between PCBs/accessory boards, DIP-switch addressing, power supply to the accessory board, and that accessories activated in the menu are actually fitted.

Who to ask for: NIBE-trained heat pump installer (NIBE PRO / VIP).

Certification: Electrical work to BS 7671 by a competent person.

What you might notice

Sources

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

Reviewed: 23 September 2026