Fixington

Replace an electric heater

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

Replacing an electric heater is a common home improvement task for UK homeowners. You might need to replace your heater if it’s no longer working efficiently, has become unreliable, or is outdated and costing too much to run. Sometimes new regulations or a desire to improve energy efficiency prompt this change.

Electric heaters come in many forms—from simple wall-mounted units and storage heaters to towel rails in bathrooms—and upgrading them can help reduce your energy bills and improve comfort. It’s important to get this job done safely, especially since it involves electrical components.

🔧 What the job involves

When you hire an electrician to replace an electric heater, the process includes:

  • Removing the old heater: Safely disconnecting power, detaching wiring, and taking the unit off the wall or floor.
  • Assessing the electrical circuit: Making sure the wiring and circuit can support the new heater, and updating if needed.
  • Installing the new heater: Positioning and securing the new unit, connecting it to the power supply, and checking safety features.
  • Testing the new heater: Confirming it works correctly and safely, and that controls respond as they should.
  • Complying with regulations: Ensuring the installation meets UK electrical safety standards like Part P of the Building Regulations.

In some cases, you might also upgrade the thermostat, install a timer, or fit a new fuse or circuit breaker if the old one is unsuitable for the new heater.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact a qualified electrician and describe the heater you want to replace, and any issues you’ve noticed.
  2. Site survey and quote: The electrician visits your home to inspect the existing setup, discuss options, and provide a written estimate.
  3. Confirm booking: Agree on the price and schedule a convenient date for the work.
  4. Day of work: The electrician arrives, isolates the power supply, removes the old heater, installs the new one, and tests everything thoroughly.
  5. Completion and checks: The electrician explains how to operate the new heater, provides any paperwork or certification, and tidies up.
  6. Post-installation: Keep your documentation for warranty and future servicing.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Electrician’s hourly rate (typically £40–£70 per hour).
  • Materials/Parts: Cost of the new heater (ranges £60–£350 depending on type), plus any additional wiring or fittings.
  • Extras: New thermostats, switches, timers if requested or needed (£15–£80).
  • Disposal: Removal and environmentally responsible disposal of the old heater (sometimes included).
  • Certification: Providing any Part P electrical completion certificate or building control notification, usually included in labour costs.

Example breakdown:

  • Labour (2 hours): £100
  • New electric heater: £150
  • Extra wiring and fittings: £30
  • Certification: Included
  • Total estimate: £280

📊 What affects the price

  • Access: Difficulty reaching the heater location (e.g., high walls, lofts, or awkward corners).
  • Type and size of heater: Larger or specialist models cost more.
  • Electrical upgrades needed: Replacement or additions to wiring, breakers, or controls.
  • Regulations and certification requirements: Compliance with Part P and local building rules.
  • Condition of existing installation: Discovering faulty wiring or damage requiring remedial work.
  • Location: Costs vary by region; central London tends to be more expensive than rural areas.
  • Timeline: Urgent or off-hours work may cost more.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Straight swap: For a like-for-like replacement with good access, expect 1–2 hours.
  • Heater relocation or upgrade: Moving the unit or adding new wiring can extend the job to 3–4 hours.
  • Complex installations: For storage heaters or integrated systems involving electrical upgrades, the work may take most of a day.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

It’s not recommended. Replacing an electric heater involves working with mains electricity, which can be dangerous if you’re not qualified. UK law requires electrical work in domestic fixed installations to comply with Part P of the Building Regulations, and any new wiring or modifications should be done by a qualified electrician.

If your existing heater is simply unplugged with no wiring changes, replacing a fan heater or plug-in convector heater might be safe to DIY. But for wall-mounted or hardwired electric heaters, hire a professional to avoid safety risks, insurance issues, and legal non-compliance.

💰 Typical UK price range

Expect to pay between £150 and £400 for replacing a standard electric heater in a UK home. This estimate usually includes labour, materials, and certification but excludes VAT if you hire a VAT-registered electrician (VAT is currently 20%).

Keep in mind costs can rise if the work is more complex, your existing wiring needs updating, or you choose a premium heater.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Check your existing heater: Note make, model, and age to discuss with your electrician.
  • Clear the area: Make space around the heater to help the electrician work safely.
  • Ask about warranties: Ensure your new heater and the installation come with guarantees.
  • Retain paperwork: Keep all invoices, certificates, and manuals for future reference.
  • Plan controls ahead: Consider adding a programmer or thermostat for energy efficiency.
  • Confirm electrician qualifications: Look for a registered professional on the NICEIC or ELECSA schemes.
  • Think about timing: Avoid winter for heater replacements if possible, so your home stays warm.

By understanding what’s involved in replacing an electric heater, you can make informed decisions, ensure safety, and improve your home’s comfort. Hiring a qualified electrician helps guarantee your installation meets UK standards and works reliably for years to come.