Storage Heaters Not Heating Overnight? Here’s What Might Be Wrong
If you’re still using storage heaters, you expect them to quietly charge overnight and release heat the next day — but what if they’re staying stone cold?
We get plenty of calls from homeowners across Exeter, Newton Abbot, Exmouth and the South Hams trying to figure out why their electric heating has suddenly stopped working.
Here are the most common reasons your storage heaters might not be heating — and how we usually fix them.
1. The Off-Peak Supply Isn’t Coming On
Storage heaters are usually wired to an Economy 7 or other off-peak tariff. If your night supply has stopped working, the heater won’t charge overnight.
What causes it?
A tripped or faulty off-peak fuse
Supply issue from your energy provider
Faulty time switch or dual-rate meter
2. The Heater’s Internal Fuse Has Blown
Many units contain internal fuses or thermal cut-outs to prevent overheating. If these trip, the heater won’t warm up.
What causes it?
Overheating due to blocked vents
Fan or thermostat issues
Aged or degraded components
3. The Input or Output Settings Are Wrong
Modern storage heaters can be confusing. If the input is turned down too low, the heater won’t store enough heat. If the output is left open, it releases the heat too early.
Quick tip:
Set the input higher overnight during colder months, and only open the output when you actually need the heat.
4. The Heater Has Reached End of Life
Older storage heaters (especially ones from the 80s or 90s) lose efficiency over time. The elements wear out and the insulation becomes ineffective.
If your unit takes forever to warm — or stays warm only around the bottom — it might be time to upgrade.
5. Faulty Wiring or Controls
We’ve found:
Loose connections at the consumer unit
Wall switches that no longer isolate correctly
Time clocks stuck or misfiring
Wiring issues inside the heater itself
If it’s tripping the breaker or giving off a smell, turn it off and get it checked.
What You Can Do
Check both the fused spur and circuit breaker
Test another off-peak appliance if available
Leave the output control closed overnight
Listen for signs of life — heaters should hum slightly when charging
🛑 Don’t try opening the heater casing unless you’re trained — the internal bricks retain a lot of heat and can be dangerous.
What EPM Can Do
We can:
Test the off-peak circuit and time switches
Diagnose faulty thermostats, elements, or wiring
Recommend modern replacements (or more efficient heating systems)
Carry out fast, safe replacements with minimal disruption
We’re quick to respond — especially for vulnerable households that rely on safe electric heating.
What It Might Cost
Diagnosis and fault check: £90–£120
Simple repair (element, fuse, thermostat): £120–£180
Full heater replacement: £300–£650 depending on model
We’ll always provide a clear estimate and confirm your tariff setup before any work begins.
Final Word from EPM
Electric storage heaters are simple — until they aren’t.
If yours has gone cold, give us a shout. We’ll get it sorted quickly, with zero drama and honest advice about what’s best long-term.
