"Bob Mannix" wrote in message
...

wrote in message
oups.com...
There is a message a few posts down about a plumbing invoice got me
wondering. My house has got gas CH but I would use the immersion heater
in an emergency. The immersion hasn't worked for some time but I ahve
never got around to replacing it.
Bearing in mind the cylinder/heater have been in place for 25 years how
difficult will the heater be to change.

Ah, good and bad. Immersion heater will be well and truly stuck. However,
25
years ago the cylinders were probably thicker and will withstand more in
the
way of mistreatment than current ones.

Depends on the grade of copper used. 25 years ago there were many paper
thin cylinders around.

I would soak the threads in easing fluid of some sort (probably won't help
but it might). Next day try an immersion heater spanner on it, with all
the
water still in (gives the tank a lot of strength). Tap it, heave on it
etc.,
but watch the tank doesn't start to give. If it undoes at all, drain the
system and carry on. If it doesn't, you are in for a new tank as well.

He is probably better getting a new cylinder anyway. After 25 years or more,
the cylinder may be on its last legs. Best he gets a quick recovery
cylinder, not a normal Part L, ignorant counter salesmen push as quick
recovery, and he will benefit in reduced bills, and faster re-heats. If he
attempts to take out the immersion when full he could be in for a big
expensive and messy shock. A new "quick recovery" cylinder, like an Albion
superduty or Telford Typhoon, will solve many current and near future
problems all in one go.