Article Updated On August 21, 2019

Storage Heaters That Contain Asbestos

We are often asked about storage heaters that contain asbestos ie which storage heaters inparticular and their model numbers.

A lot of the older type models will most certainly contain asbestos, as it was widely used because of it’s fire retardant properties.

However, Insulation materials using asbestos were withdrawn in 1973, therefore, all storage heaters made since 1974 should be asbestos free.

Check if your old Electric heater contains asbestos

Please find in the linked document below a comprehensive list of all the old brands and model numbers of all known storage heaters that contain asbestos.

Also note that any heaters that contain the letters ‘SR’ at the end of the serial number pose the greatest risk of releasing asbestos fibers into the atmosphere.

As this list is now 37 years old, you’ll find that many of these heaters are no longer in service.

Models such as Dimplex xl and Dimplex xls never contained asbestos.

Click on the link or button below to download this document detailing all the storage heaters that contain asbestos for future reference.

Is asbestos in heaters safe?

Storage heaters are safe so long as they haven’t been damaged in any way or dismantled.

The reason sheets of asbestos were used inside old storage heater models was for for fire prevention as asbestos is notoriously heat resistant and fire retardant.

Any potential damage to the asbestos sheets inside the heater could cause asbestos dust and fibers to be released into the atmosphere.

If these harmful fibers are inhaled into the lungs, then they can cause asbestos disease years later after exposure, such as asbestosis and mesothelioma.

Can I remove an old heater containing asbestos?

Whatever you do, please do not be tempted to dismantle a storage heater to see if you can find any asbestos sheeting!

Also, if you suspect an old storage heater of containing asbestos, don’t just dump it as it will put others at risk of exposure.

Instead, you are advised that If you have a storage heater on your premises that you no longer need or want to replace it, then you should have it removed by a licensed contractor or health and safety expert.

Contact your local council for further advice on safe disposal of asbestos containing materials.

Duty holders and employers have a legal responsibility to handle storage heaters that contain asbestos so as not to put employees at risk. Contact our Armco office for asbestos management and refurbishment/ demolition surveys on 0161 763 3727 or by visiting https://www.armco.org.uk/

Alternatively, for all your asbestos training needs call 0161 761 4424 or visit https://www.armcoasbestostraining.co.uk/ for more information or to book a training course.