Vaillant ecoTEC Flow Detector - Various Models Ref. 178988

Vaillant boilers compatible with reference 178988

Flow meter with reference 178988. 11 confirmed compatibilities: VMW ES 306/5-5 and VMW ES 286/5-5.

Proven compatibility

Can't see your model or have questions? The printed reference takes precedence. How to check it · Send us a photo via WhatsApp.

How to check if ref. 178988 is the part for your boiler

What determines it is not the boiler model, but the reference printed on the part you already have installed.

1. Find the reference printed on the installed part and check whether it matches the catalogue reference 178988. If it is not visible, do not identify the part from its shape alone.
2. Check the full boiler model on its data plate and look for it in the model associations on this page.
3. Compare the connections and physical body with the original part before installation.
4. If anything is unclear, send us a photo of the marking via WhatsApp before placing your order.

Symptoms and faults that the flow meter 178988 resolves.

The flow meter detects the passage of water to activate the domestic hot water. These are the typical symptoms and what to do:

Common symptoms and faults

• 01

  When opening the hot water tap, the boiler does not respond and the water remains cold.

  Cause: The flow detector does not inform the PCB of the water flow and the ignition for domestic hot water (DHW) does not activate.

  Check the flow of the faucet and ensure that no filter or aerator is restricting the water flow before replacing the part.

• 02

  The hot water cuts off and resumes several times while the shower is on.

  Cause: The detector sends an intermittent signal due to dirt or internal wear, and the boiler turns on and off following that signal.

  Check if the cut always occurs at the same approximate flow rate, as this helps to distinguish a fault in the detector from a network pressure issue.

• 03

  The water comes out less hot than before even though the boiler is on and there are no other alerts.

  Cause: The detector does not transmit the actual flow rate properly, and the flame modulation is insufficient for that consumption.

  Compare the outlet temperature at different taps in the house to see if the problem is general or just in that area.

• 04

  The display shows a flow sensor fault or similar when requesting domestic hot water.

  Cause: The PCB detects an abnormal reading from the sensor and blocks the start of domestic hot water for safety.

  Note the exact code given by the boiler and check the manual of the model before deciding on the replacement.

These symptoms can have more than one cause. If your boiler displays a fault code, send it to us via WhatsApp along with a photo of the labeling, and we'll tell you if this is the part.

Vaillant 178988 flow meter datasheet

Catalogue reference

178988

Brand

Vaillant

Type of part

Flow Detectors

Units in stock

1 unit

Status

Refurbished

Warranty

1 year

Shipping

1-2 business days

Return

14 days

Manuals and technical documentation

Official documentation of the boiler, useful for locating the part and cross-referencing the fault codes.

• Vaillant VUW 837 376/5-5 manual (PDF)Document © Vaillant, provided as a technical reference.