Storage Heater Overheating

[Maydup]

I have a storage heater which is overheating. Its extremely hot to touch and doesn't respond to reducing the input. I've switched it off now to be safe but I'm wondering whether its repairable?

I've assumed they don't work at all if the thermostat goes, or is this the same problem? The heater is fairly old, but reliable until now. Its not been moved or covered, no change to its regular use.

[Zacs-Master]

A new 'stat should bring it back to full efficacy.

[Maydup]

thanks Zacs, are we likely to be able to change it ourselves? I'm googling and not finding the usual ..how to... type videos on youtUbe. I'll keep looking.

[BRIGHT SPARK]

It sounds like the input stat has failed...but more worrying is that the back up failsafe i.e. the solder link, has not operated.Get it checked What make is it?

[Maydup]

Its a Dimplex XLSN. I've left it off while we're out (afternoon slot) but will let it heat up again this evening while I'm here. Nervous of it getting so hot.

Can we replace the stat ourselves BS?

[Nibble]

Looking at this.....

http://www.storageheaters.com/storage-heater-repair.htm

Try it and see, if it doesn't reset ..... then it time to replace :((

[Maydup]

Thanks Nibble, I had seen that but my heater doesn't seem to have a reset option.

Plus its overheating rather than failing to heat as they do when they need a reset. I think I need a new stat and am wondering if we can by one and replace it or does it need a tradesperson?

We did them on our electric cooker but cannot find much about replacing them on storage heaters.

[BRIGHT SPARK]

Maydup........Dimplex spares are easily obtained and the stats are easily fitted by the average DIYer....if in doubt get a local sparks in...it should only take 15 mins.

[Maydup]

Thanks BS. We're struggling to find the stats for our aged heaters, so have called local electricians. TY

One more question.....while we wait for him to visit, are they safe to use when they are excessively hot? i've been leaving it at night off as I'm concerned it might be dangerous, bearing in mind we're sound asleep and the heater is heating up to mega hot. Less worried about the waste of money for a few days, only concerned they might catch fire or something.

[chrissa1]

My daughter has the opposite to you, Maydup. She had just moved into a new rented house and is freezing cold. They are both out at work all day and the house is very cold when they come in. Any ideas?

[Maydup]

Firstly they must be sure never to cover the heaters Chrissa. If they do they cut out and need to be reset. If the heaters are not heating at all then they probably need checking too.

Otherwise make sure they turn the input dial up during the night and the room temperature button to zero. Then when they come home from work they can turn the room temp button up to allow the heat out. Close it again before going to bed.

[Maydup]

PS until they are used to them, never turn them off. They need some time to heat up fully and this happens overnight.

[chrissa1]

Thanks, Maydup. I'll pass this on to her.

[Hopkirk]

Chrissa, if it is rented and the heaters aren't working properly, ask for a qualified electrician to check them - after making sure that it isn't something simple like the circuit breaker tripped off.