Hot Water Systems

Immersion Heater Installation

Immersion heater installation replaces or adds an electric heating element in your hot water cylinder, restoring reliable hot water and improving safety. The service covers selection, fitting, wiring checks and commissioning so your cylinder heats properly and the controls cut out as they should.

More information

What immersion heater installation covers

A practical, safety-first service to get your hot water cylinder heating reliably.

  • Site assessment of the cylinder, existing element, controls and electrical isolation
  • Advice on the right immersion type and rating for your cylinder and usage
  • Removal of the old element where possible and installation of a new immersion heater
  • Replacement of key controls where required, such as thermostats and high-limit cut-outs
  • Checks for leaks, correct sealing, and sound cylinder connections
  • Electrical testing and confirmation of safe isolation and switching arrangements
  • Commissioning, functional testing and clear handover on use and settings

Who this service is for

  • Homeowners with no hot water or intermittent hot water from a cylinder
  • Landlords needing a dependable, safe hot water setup between tenancies
  • Small commercial sites using cylinder-based hot water (for example staff kitchens or washrooms)
  • Properties with an immersion used as a backup to a boiler, or as the main heat source

What happens during the job

The engineer will confirm the cylinder type, isolate power and water as needed, then remove and fit the immersion heater using the correct seals and torque. Controls are set and tested to make sure the thermostat operates correctly and the safety cut-out trips if required. For unvented cylinders, the work is carried out with the correct certification and with attention to the associated safety devices.

After installation

You will be shown how to use the immersion safely, including recommended temperature settings and how long it should typically take to heat. If the cylinder shows signs of wider issues (for example failed valves, scaling or wiring faults), you will be advised on the next steps before problems escalate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my immersion heater needs replacing?
Common signs include no hot water, very slow heating, tripping electrics, or a thermostat that will not regulate temperature. Leaks around the element boss can also indicate a failing seal or element.
Can you install an immersion heater on an unvented hot water cylinder?
Yes, but unvented systems have specific safety requirements and must be worked on by an appropriately certified engineer. The installation includes checks of relevant safety controls as part of commissioning.
Will you replace the thermostat and safety cut-out as well?
If the existing controls are faulty, outdated, or not compatible with the new element, they can be replaced as part of the job. Correct control operation is essential for safe, consistent hot water.
How long does an immersion heater installation take?
Many straightforward replacements can be completed in a single visit, once safe isolation and access are confirmed. If the old element is seized or the cylinder fittings need attention, it may take longer.
Do I need to drain the hot water cylinder first?
It depends on the cylinder type and the condition of the existing element and seals. In some cases a full drain-down is needed to remove the old element safely and prevent leaks on reassembly.

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