When we are called out for an asbestos survey, the homeowner is often surprised when we tell them their old storage heater could contain asbestos. People are aware it is likely to be in floor tiles, ceilings, and even textured coatings, but they are surprised their old storage heater could contain asbestos.
For decades, storage heaters have been used in many UK homes. and indeed still are a popular choice. They are easy to use and cheap to run, and don’t take up a lot of room. However, some older models, mainly made before the mid-80s, are still around, and chances are, these have asbestos used for insulation. As with other asbestos products, the asbestos-containing insulation helped retain heat and lowered the risk of fire.
The problem of course, is if the asbestos is damaged, as fibres can be released into the air.
Some well-known brands used asbestos in their heaters, including Dimplex, Creda, and Unidare. Check the model number and manufacturer details if you have an old storage heater. Here is a list (though we cannot guarantee it is complete). If yours is on the list, do not try to take it apart.
Asbestos was mostly used in the heat-retaining bricks inside the heater, but some models had asbestos rope seals around access panels or doors. If these become worn or tampered with, the risk of fibre release increases enormously.
How to Identify an Asbestos Storage Heater
If your home or workplace has old storage heaters, you will usually find the manufacturer’s label on the side or back of the unit. If the heater was made before 1985, there is a strong chance it contains asbestos.
Do not assume a heater is safe just because it looks undamaged. Asbestos fibres are microscopic and cannot be seen with the naked eye. The only way to confirm whether a heater contains asbestos is through professional testing.
How to Handle an Asbestos Storage Heater
If you suspect your storage heater contains asbestos, we strongly recommend you do not try to dismantle or move it yourself. Asbestos should be removed by trained professionals who follow strict safety rules.
Even minor disturbances, such as removing a panel or loosening a screw, can cause fibres to become airborne.
If You Insist on Removing It Yourself
We strongly discourage removing an asbestos-containing storage heater yourself, but we know some people will do it anyway. If you are one of them, follow these strict safeguards to reduce the risk:
Wear the Right Safety Gear
- Use a P3-rated disposable respirator.
- Wear disposable overalls with a hood (Category 5/6).
- Use gloves and boot covers.
Prepare the Area
- Seal off the work area with plastic sheeting.
- Keep windows closed to prevent asbestos fibres from spreading.
- Use duct tape to seal any gaps where fibres could escape.
Dampen the Heater
- Lightly spray the heater with water mixed with a small amount of washing-up liquid to help prevent fibres from becoming airborne.
- Note that you should spray lightly and not soak the heater, as this can make the insulation more fragile.
Carefully Dismantle the Heater
- Avoid breaking the insulation or internal bricks.
- Remove screws slowly and carefully.
- Keep all the parts contained and handle them as little as possible.
Double-Bag the Waste
- Place all removed parts in heavy-duty asbestos waste bags.
- Seal each bag tightly with tape.
- Place the first sealed bag inside a second bag and seal it again.
Decontaminate Before Leaving
- Wipe down tools with a damp cloth.
- Place disposable overalls, gloves, and masks in an asbestos waste bag.
- Wash your hands and face thoroughly before leaving the area.
Dispose of the Heater Legally
- Contact your local council for disposal instructions.
- Take the sealed waste to a licensed asbestos disposal site.
- Do not attempt to break down or crush the heater to make it fit in a standard bin.
Disposal and Legal Responsibilities
UK law treats asbestos waste very seriously. If you remove a heater that contains asbestos, you cannot throw it in a skip or take it to a regular tip. Councils have specific disposal sites for asbestos waste and some offer collection services.
A qualified asbestos removal company will follow the correct procedures, including double-bagging the waste and sealing it before disposal. If a contractor is removing it for you, check they have the right licence. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires companies handling asbestos to hold a licence for high-risk removal work.
What If Your Storage Heater is Damaged?
A damaged heater with exposed insulation is a major risk. If you see broken panels, crumbling insulation, or dust escaping from the unit, stop using it immediately. Leave the room and avoid disturbing the heater further. Call an asbestos professional to assess the situation.
Never try to clean up asbestos dust yourself. Vacuuming or sweeping will only spread the fibres further. Professional companies use specialised equipment to contain and remove asbestos safely.
Replacing an Old Storage Heater
If your storage heater is past its best, consider a modern alternative. New electric heaters are safer, more efficient, and do not come with the risk of asbestos exposure. Many energy-efficient models qualify for government grants, making replacement more affordable.
Before replacing an old heater, check whether it could contain asbestos. If it does, the best thing you can do is arrange for professional removal before installing a new unit. Yes, calling a company will cost you, but this is a situation where it is better to be safe than sorry.
The cost of proper removal is small compared to the health risks of exposure.
