Fixington

Fix an electric heater

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

An electric heater fix might be needed when your heater isn’t warming up properly, making unusual noises, or simply won’t switch on. Given the UK’s often chilly seasons, having a reliable source of heating is essential for comfort and safety at home.

Electric heaters can develop faults due to wiring issues, worn-out components, or thermostat failures. Sometimes, older heaters might not meet current safety standards and require repair or replacement. Hiring a qualified electrician ensures your heater is repaired safely and in line with UK electrical regulations.

🔧 What the job involves

Fixing an electric heater usually means diagnosing the problem first. Your electrician will check the electrical connections, thermostat, heating elements, and any control systems. They’ll test components to pinpoint what’s causing the fault.

Common tasks include:

  • Replacing blown fuses or damaged wiring.
  • Repairing or swapping malfunctioning thermostats.
  • Fixing or replacing faulty heating elements.
  • Checking and repairing switches or control panels.

If the heater is beyond repair, the electrician might recommend a replacement. Throughout, the work will be done following UK wiring regulations (BS 7671), and any wiring work in certain rooms such as bathrooms must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact a Gas Safe-registered electrician or a qualified electrical contractor specialising in domestic electric heaters. Provide details about your heater model and symptoms.

  2. Survey and quote: The electrician will visit to inspect the heater and diagnose the problem. They’ll provide a written quote detailing parts, labour, and any compliance work.

  3. Booking the job: You agree on the price and schedule a convenient date for the repair.

  4. Day of the repair: The electrician arrives on time, carries out the agreed work, testing the heater on completion to ensure it works safely.

  5. Certification and paperwork: If new wiring or significant electrical work was needed, you’ll be issued an Electrical Installation Certificate or Minor Works Certificate.

  6. Payment and advice: After payment, your electrician often provides maintenance advice and recommendations for safe heater use.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Typically £40 to £70 per hour for a qualified electrician.
  • Parts/materials: Heating elements (£20–£70), thermostats (£25–£60), wiring or connectors (varies).
  • Call-out fee: Some electricians charge a visit fee, around £40–£60.
  • Disposal: Minor cost if old parts or whole heaters are removed—often included.
  • Certification: Electrical certificates may cost £40–£80.

For example, a simple thermostat replacement might be labour (£50) plus parts (£40), totalling about £90 excluding VAT.

📊 What affects the price

  • Accessibility: Heaters in difficult-to-reach spots (e.g., lofts or high walls) can increase labour time.
  • Complexity: Older or integrated heating systems may require more in-depth diagnostics.
  • Regulations and certification: Additional costs if rewiring or certification is needed.
  • Remedial works: If the heater fault caused wiring damage, extra repairs might be necessary.
  • Location: Repairs in London or the South East are often costlier than other regions.
  • Timeline: Emergency or out-of-hours call-outs usually have higher rates.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple repairs (such as replacing a thermostat or fuse): 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Replacing heating elements: Usually 1–2 hours.
  • Complex repairs or partial rewiring: 2–4 hours or more.
  • Full heater replacement: Can take up to a day, depending on installation complexity.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

For safety reasons, fixing electric heaters is generally not recommended as a DIY task. Electric heaters can carry significant current and pose shock or fire risks if handled incorrectly. UK wiring regulations and Part P require certain electrical work to be done by qualified persons.

If you’re confident and experienced with electrical work, and the heater’s fault is minor (such as resetting a thermostat), you might attempt small non-electrical maintenance. However, anything involving internal wiring or component replacement should be left to a Gas Safe-registered electrician.

💰 Typical UK price range

You can expect to pay approximately £80 to £250 for standard electric heater repairs, including parts and labour. More complex jobs or replacements can cost upwards of £300.

All prices generally exclude VAT at 20%, which will apply if you hire a VAT-registered electrician.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Have your heater’s make, model, and age details handy to help your electrician prepare.
  • Clear the area around the heater to allow easy access.
  • Check the fuse box or electrical panel for tripped breakers before booking repair.
  • Keep all paperwork, including quotes, receipts, and any certificates, for future reference.
  • Ask for a clear explanation of the fault and get advice on safe heater operation.
  • Arrange regular servicing if recommended — some electric heaters benefit from annual checks.
  • Don’t delay repairs: faulty heaters can pose fire risks or increase energy consumption.

Getting a professional electric heater fix will help keep your home warm and safe through the colder months, ensuring peace of mind and compliance with UK safety standards.