Immersion heater and Economy 7 switches getting hot

[fawcettspython]

I have 2 switches that control my hot water, one is an Economy 7 switch the other a standard immersion heater switch.

I have recently noticed that both of these switches become really hot to the touch if they are left on for about half an hour.
I had noticed them become slighly warm before, and this may be a red herring but there was a power cut a couple of weeks ago which affected my whole street- this
tripped the Economy 7 switch at the main fusebox and the problem seems to have occurred after this.

The switches become warm independently of each other - they dont have to both be switched on for them to heat up, though I admit that I havent tried to put them both on at once
in case the fuse blows. I dont know much about electrics and I am worried about getting ripped off - any guidance you can give me would be greatly appreciated.

I have attached pictures of the switches and the water heater in case this sheds any light.

 

[SJD]

Perhaps loose or poor connections in the switches. I've got a small collection of these that have started to melt or char for this reason (that I've replaced), suggest you get them checked.

 

[oldtimer]

Well they are MKs and they have had quality problems years ago I woulf not go past them now would not go near them also they are switched fused outlets they should be 20A DP switches so best change them to Grabtree

 

[Guitarist]

Your E7 switch becomes live when E7 begins at night for heating the whole tank, whereas the other one is a permanent supply for you to switch on when you need a boost. I wouldn't worry that they are 13 amp switched fused connection units, but the getting hot part indicates loose connections or switches on the way out. My advice is to get a qualified electrician to come and check this out for you.

 

[telectrix]

as above 2 posts. for peace of mind get them checked. it's only a call-out fee, max. £50 if it were me (+ any parts used, of course)

 

[fawcettspython]

Thanks for all the advice, very helpful, I will get them checked out asap.

 

[vjsmarwick]

i would have them checked also but i have to say i normally fit 20A switches fused at 16A but its just my preference!

 

[Guitarist]

i would have them checked also but i have to say i normally fit 20A switches fused at 16A but its just my preference!

As was always tradition mate. What I have been noticing lately however, is that many immersion elements now have instructions to fuse down to 13 amps...