What is this?
Storage heaters work by charging up with heat overnight using cheaper off-peak electricity (Economy 7 or Economy 10) and releasing that stored heat during the day. When a storage heater is not working, it may not be charging overnight, may have a faulty element, or the output controls may not be functioning correctly.
Common causes
- Input dial turned down or off — heater not charging overnight
- Off-peak supply not reaching the heater (meter or timer fault)
- Failed heating element inside the storage heater
- Faulty thermostat or charge controller
- Tripped MCB on the off-peak circuit
- Economy 7 meter not switching to off-peak tariff
Is it dangerous?
Storage heaters that are not working are not dangerous. However, they contain heavy clay bricks that retain heat, so if a heater is getting excessively hot to touch or giving off a burning smell, switch it off at the isolator and call an electrician.
Can I fix it myself?
Check that the input dial is turned up (this controls how much heat is stored overnight). Make sure the output dial is open during the day. Check the consumer unit for a tripped MCB on the off-peak circuit. Verify your Economy 7 meter is switching — off-peak times are typically midnight to 7am.
When to call an electrician
Call an electrician if the heater is not charging despite correct settings, if the off-peak circuit MCB keeps tripping, if only some of your storage heaters are affected, or if the heater is making unusual noises.
What will an electrician do?
Test the off-peak supply to confirm it is reaching the heater
Check the Economy 7 meter and timeswitch operation
Test the heating elements for continuity
Inspect the thermostat and charge controller
Check wiring connections at the heater and consumer unit
Typical cost
£80 – £250
Diagnosing off-peak supply issues is at the lower end. Element replacement can be costly and a new heater may be more economical.
