Troubleshoot bathroom storage heater

[SparkJ]

Does anyone have any tips for troubleshooting problems with a bathroom storage heater that runs on an off peak tariff?

I guess I can test for continuity by measuring r1 + r2 and maybe do an insulation resistance test,

If it is rated at around 2kW can I just connect it to a 13A plug and plug it into a socket?

Any advice on a structured troubleshooting approach would be much appreciated.

 

[Riggy]

This would be my approach:

1. Isolate

2. Continuity between L and N at incoming terminals (should be about 35ohms)

- If result is open circuit (this is what I'd expect) the fault is in the heater, go to step 3

- If the result is circa 35ohms the fault is in the supply, check supply fuse/mcb, switch, cable etc for continity.

3. Check continuity of thermal cut out (should be zero ohms)

4. Check continuity of thermostat (should be zero ohms)

5. Check continuity of each element (should be around 19 ohms)

You'll probably find it's the thermal cut out (follow the wiring from the L incomng terminal and you'll find it), some are re-settable others need to be replaced.

Good luck