F.1218 on a Viessmann One Base: Communication error with the slave heat pump
Short answer
On a Viessmann heat pump, F.1218 means: Communication error with the slave heat pump. The heat pump keeps running with some functions stopped. An engineer is needed to fix the cause.
Reviewed 23 September 2026 · 1 source
What it means
The manual says: Communication error with the slave heat pump.
Part involved: Communication error with the slave heat pump.
When it shows: System characteristics: Limited operation of the heat pump cascade.
Likely causes:
- No mains voltage.
- The slave heat pump is off.
- Incorrect commissioning of the slave heat pump.
- Communication fault, external CAN bus.
Is it safe?
| Does the heat pump stop? | Partly |
|---|---|
| Engineer needed? | Yes |
The heat pump keeps running with some functions stopped.
Resetting itself: Not stated per code in Viessmann document 6199893 GB 01/2026 (VSA00009).
Manual reset: User may acknowledge via HMI after noting the code (6249162 p.57); the message returns if the cause persists.
What you can check
- On the HMI, tap the message and "?" to read the system characteristics and Viessmann's user tips; note the code (e.g. F.xxx) and text for your contractor (operating instructions 6249162 p.57).
- Acknowledge the message once via the HMI; do not acknowledge fault messages several times in quick succession (6249162 p.58) - notify your contractor.
- Check the heat pump breaker/isolator in the consumer unit is ON (do not repeatedly reset a breaker or RCD that keeps tripping).
What the engineer will check
- Check the CAN bus subscribers.
- Check the power supply to the slave heat pump. Switch on if necessary.
- Isolate the slave heat pump from the power supply. Wait at least 2 min. Switch on the slave heat pump.
- Check the CAN bus connections between the heat pumps.
- Wall mounted indoor unit: Connection on the underside of the appliance, 6-pin connection socket on the left, terminals 1.CAN L to 3.CAN H.
- Floorstanding indoor unit: Terminal area for extra low voltage (ELV) < 42 V, luster terminal for bus connections, terminals 91.CAN L to 91.CAN H.
- Check wires and plugs for correct seating.
- Check connections for contact corrosion.
Who to ask for: Viessmann-trained heat pump installer/service engineer.
Sources
- Service instructions for contractors: Heat pumps in monoblock design incl. hybrid – System configuration and diagnostics (Vitocal 150-A/151-A/250-A/252-A, IDU-A, AWMOF-151/251, AquaSnap 30AWH, BI-BLOC R290) (6199893 GB 01/2026) ↗ · 6199893 GB 01/2026 (VSA00009) · page 194 · Reviewed 23 September 2026
A code explains what the controller detected, not a confirmed root cause.
Reviewed: 23 September 2026