Storage Heaters

FAQs

What is a storage heater?

A storage heater is a type of electric heater that stores thermal energy during the night when electricity prices are at their lowest. They then release this heat into your space during the day as you need it, making them a convenient option for those at home during the day who require a constant low level of heat.

How do storage heaters work?

Storage heaters work by storing heat energy during off-peak times, typically at night when electricity is cheaper, and then releasing it throughout the day. This is done through a combination of insulation and ceramic or clay bricks inside the heater that retain heat well. When the heater is switched on during the charging period, it heats up these bricks to a high temperature, then uses the stored heat to warm the room when needed. You can adjust the level of charge input and heat output to find the perfect temperature for your space.

Are storage heaters expensive to run?

Storage heaters typically have lower initial installation costs compared to gas boilers and many modern storage heaters have advanced energy-saving features that help lower running costs. For example, smart storage heaters can be controlled remotely to begin storing heat or turned off automatically once off-peak times are over.

The key to lowering costs associated with storage heaters is to take advantage of a storage heater's 'off peak' electricity rates - they are usually best suited to homes that are on Economy 7 or Economy 10 meter tariffs.

What size storage heater do I need?

When choosing a suitable electric storage heater for your property, you’ll need to consider the wattage and physical size of the storage heater needed to adequately heat your space.

To determine the wattage required, you should consider the size of the room and the quality of its insulation. A rule of thumb of 12 watts per square foot is usually suggested. It is also recommended that you choose a storage heater or a combination of storage heater systems which add up to the total wattage required for the room. For instance, a room that requires 5kw wattage could get a combination of a 1.7kw storage heater and a 3.4kw system.

In terms of the physical size of the storage heaters needed for your property, you’ll need to ensure that you measure your room’s length, width and height to make sure that you know how much space is available for your storage heaters to be fitted.

What are the key differences between storage heaters, electric radiators and gas heating?

Electric radiators use convection to produce heat, similar to central heating radiators. As the liquid inside them heats up, warmth is emitted. However, storage heaters are designed to store thermal energy and release heat throughout the day by warming up ceramic bricks thanks to their high heat retention.

Initial installation costs for gas heating systems can be higher, but gas is cheaper than electricity in many areas of the UK, whereas electric storage heaters are usually less expensive to install. Storage heaters can get expensive quickly if used during peak-rate electricity.

How efficient are storage heaters?

The efficiency of storage heaters vary depending on how often you use them and the size of the space you need to heat. However, storage heaters are considered to be more energy efficient than other types of electric heaters and can help reduce your energy bills. Compared to gas heating which emits greenhouse gases, electric heating and storage heaters can be much more environmentally friendly, especially if powered by a renewable energy source.

Shop storage heaters online or visit your nearest YESSS Electrical store to shop in-person.