Move an electric heater

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

Moving an electric heater is a common home improvement task in UK houses. Whether you want to create more space, improve heat distribution, or simply redesign a room, relocating an electric heater can help. This job involves disconnecting the existing heater and installing it in a new location safely and in line with UK electrical regulations.

People often need this service when rearranging furniture, converting rooms, or replacing outdated heaters. Because of the electrical connections involved, it's important to ensure the move is carried out by a qualified electrician for safety and compliance reasons.

🔧 What the job involves

At its simplest, moving an electric heater means taking the heater off its current wall or floor position, safely disconnecting it from the electrical supply, and installing it securely somewhere else. However, the details depend on the type of heater and wiring involved.

Common types of electric heaters include wall-mounted panel heaters, convector heaters, and storage heaters. Moving them usually requires:

Switching off the relevant circuit at the consumer unit (fuse box).
Disconnecting wiring safely and capping it off.
Extending or rerouting cables if the new location is far from the original supply point.
Installing new fixing brackets or mounting points.
Connecting the heater correctly to its electrical circuit.
Testing the installation to ensure it works safely and complies with Part P of the Building Regulations.

In many cases, the heater's electrical circuit may need to be adapted or extended. The electrician will assess this during a survey. The entire process must follow UK electrical safety standards, including BS 7671 wiring regulations.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

Initial enquiry: Contact a registered electrician to explain your needs and the heater type you want to move.
Survey and quote: The electrician will visit your home to assess the existing installation, check wiring, and inspect the new location. They’ll provide a written quote.
Agree date and costs: Once you accept the quote, a convenient date for the work is arranged.
Day of works: The electrician arrives with tools and materials, switches off power safely, removes your heater, reroutes or extends cables if needed, installs the heater in its new location, and tests the circuit.
Completion and certification: Post-installation, the electrician will tidy up the area, explain the work done, and provide any electrical safety certification required under Part P Building Regulations.
Follow-up: Some electricians offer advice on heater maintenance, servicing, and warranty info.

💷 Main costs to expect

Labour: Electrician’s hourly rate, typically £40–£70/hour.
Materials: Cable, mounting brackets, consumer unit parts if upgrades are needed.
Extras: Running extra cables through walls or floors, chasing (cutting channels for cables), or adding new sockets or switches.
Disposal: Removal and disposal of old mounting brackets or damaged heaters (usually minimal or included).
Certification: Compliance paperwork and certification under Part P may add £30–£60.

Example estimate for moving a basic wall-mounted panel heater (simple circuit, no major rewiring):

Labour (2–3 hours): £100–£180
Materials (cables, fixing kit): £25–£40
Certification: £40
Total: Around £165–£260 (excluding VAT)

📊 What affects the price

Accessibility: Difficult access to cables or heater location can increase time and cost.
Complexity: If the new heater location requires new wiring or installation of additional switches/fuses.
Regulations: Work affecting fixed wiring necessitates Part P certification — adding time and paperwork.
Remedial works: If any electrical faults or damaged wiring are discovered.
Location: Prices in London or the South East can be higher than other regions.
Timeline: Urgent or out-of-hours work may attract premiums.

⏱ How long does it take?

Straight swap: Moving a plug-in or simple fixed heater on the same circuit can take around 1–2 hours.
Rewiring involved: Extending cables, installing new consumer unit fuses, or chasing walls can take 3–5 hours.
Complex installations: For example, moving a large storage heater with heavy cables may take a full day.

Your electrician will advise on the likely duration at the survey stage.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

It is generally not recommended to move an electric heater yourself unless it is a simple portable model with a plug. Fixed electric heaters are connected to the mains supply and involve handling live wiring.

In the UK, electrical work involving fixed wiring must comply with safety standards and Part P of the Building Regulations. DIY alterations can risk electric shock, fire hazards, and will usually invalidate home insurance if not certified.

Hiring a registered electrician ensures:

Safe disconnection and reconnection.
Proper compliance with wiring regulations.
Issuance of an Electrical Installation Certificate.

💰 Typical UK price range

Moving an electric heater typically costs between £150 and £350, depending on complexity and location. This is a rough estimate, excluding VAT (currently 20%). VAT may or may not apply depending on the installer and the nature of work.

Always obtain a detailed written quote before agreeing to the work.

✅ Handy tips before you start

Plan your new heater location: Avoid places with furniture blocking heat flow and near water sources.
Clear the area: Ensure easy access for the electrician.
Prepare power: Know which circuit feeds the heater, and if possible, label your consumer unit switches.
Keep documentation: Safely store any certificates, manuals, or warranty details provided.
Ask about warranties: Confirm if any warranty covers the heater and installation work.
Discuss maintenance: Find out if your heater needs regular servicing or safety checks.
Confirm certification: Any fixed wiring changes should come with a Part P Electrical Installation Certificate.

Taking these steps helps the job run smoothly and ensures your home remains safe and warm.