slogger,
The period was initially 24 hours, then 48 hours, and has only recently been increased to 7 days.
The Free Surname search works regardless of whether you have credits/time. In addition, it is available to anyone - you do not need to be logged in as a registered user to use the Free Surname search. I have just checked it - it is working normally.
In order to view your Previous Searches (and, from these, your Viewed Images) you need to log in with your registered user details. I have checked - it is working normally.
Something else you can do if you have credits left but no time remaining - you can still choose to view (pay for) images from previous searches which you had not previously viewed.
If you are still having problems, perhaps you could explain them further and someone may be able to assist.
JAP