Jilly, this doesn't sound like a Ferolli problem (although they are a little prone to faults - it's what happens at the more economical end of the market...).
The "two black knobs" are your "fill-up valves" and are usually part of a "loop" of pipework which control the flow of mains water...
Very fine thread . . .
Am having similar intermittent troubles with my Vokera which has been great but is a year out of warranty.
If you're still watching, did you ever find out the cause of your symptoms ?
Cheers