Frequently Asked Questions About Storage Heaters
Storage Heater FAQs
Looking for answers about storage heaters, electric heating systems, installation, running costs, and energy efficiency? Our comprehensive FAQ guide covers the most common questions customers ask when choosing the right storage heater for their home.
Quick links:
What are high heat retention storage heaters?
Can I replace an old storage heater with a new model?
Do storage heaters require maintenance?
Can storage heaters be installed in any room?
Are storage heaters environmentally friendly?
Do storage heaters qualify for grants or funding?
What is a storage heater?
A storage heater is an electric heating appliance that stores heat during off-peak electricity periods and releases it gradually throughout the day. Modern storage heaters use advanced insulation and smart controls to maximise efficiency and help reduce heating costs.
Storage heaters are particularly popular in homes without access to mains gas and are often used with Economy 7 or other time-of-use electricity tariffs.
How do storage heaters work?
Storage heaters contain high-density heat-retaining bricks that absorb electricity during cheaper off-peak hours, usually overnight. The stored heat is then released slowly throughout the day to keep your home warm. Modern high heat retention storage heaters offer improved insulation and controllable heat output, allowing homeowners to better manage comfort and energy usage.
Storage heaters are particularly popular in homes without access to mains gas and are often used with Economy 7 or other time-of-use electricity tariffs.
Are modern storage heaters energy efficient?
Yes. Modern storage heaters are significantly more efficient than older models.
Features that improve efficiency include:
- High heat retention technology
- Programmable digital controls
- Automatic charging systems
- Better insulation
- Smart heating schedules
Many modern storage heaters can retain a large percentage of their stored heat for longer, reducing wasted energy and improving comfort.
Are storage heaters expensive to run?
The running cost of a storage heater depends on:
- Your electricity tariff
- The size of the heater
- The insulation of your property
- Your heating habits
- Outside temperatures
When used with an off-peak electricity tariff such as Economy 7, storage heaters can be one of the most cost-effective electric heating solutions available.
Modern high heat retention storage heaters are generally cheaper to run than older storage heater models due to improved energy management.
What is Economy 7 and do I need it for storage heaters?
Economy 7 is an electricity tariff that provides cheaper electricity during off-peak hours, typically overnight. Storage heaters are designed to take advantage of these lower electricity rates by charging during off-peak periods and releasing heat during the day. While some storage heaters can operate without Economy 7, the greatest savings are usually achieved when paired with an off-peak tariff.
Can storage heaters replace gas central heating?
Storage heaters can provide an effective alternative to gas central heating, particularly in properties without a gas connection.
Modern electric storage heaters offer:
- Low maintenance requirements
- Individual room temperature control
- No boilers or pipework
- High levels of energy efficiency
Many homeowners choose storage heaters as part of a complete electric heating system.
How long do storage heaters last?
A quality storage heater can often last between 15 and 25 years when properly maintained. Modern storage heaters are built to high standards and feature durable heating elements, advanced electronics, and long-lasting insulation materials. Most products that Storage Heater Sales offers come with industry leading warranties, supplied by the manufacturer – like the Elnur ECOHHR PLUS storage heaters (with a 12-year conditional warranty).
What size storage heaters do I need?
The correct size depends on several factors:
- Room dimensions
- Ceiling height
- Property insulation levels
- Number of windows
- Geographic location
- Desired room temperature
Choosing the correct heater size is essential for efficient heating performance. We would recommend that you utilise our free heat loss calculator to better help with your specifications. If you need further guidance, our experts would be happy to help further. Call 01942 609896 or email sales@storageheatersales.co.uk.
Are storage heaters suitable for all homes?
Storage heaters are suitable for many types of properties, including:
- Flats and apartments
- Houses without gas connections
- Rural properties
- Holiday homes
- Social housing
- New-build developments
They are particularly effective in well-insulated homes using off-peak electricity tariffs, where you will see the most benefits from their energy saving technology.
What are high heat retention storage heaters?
High heat retention storage heaters are the latest generation of electric storage heating technology.
They feature:
- Advanced insulation materials
- Improved heat retention
- Smart electronic controls
- Programmable heating schedules
- Reduced energy waste
These models provide greater comfort and efficiency compared to traditional storage heaters.
Can I replace an old storage heater with a new model?
Yes. Many homeowners upgrade older storage heaters to modern high heat retention models.
Benefits of upgrading include:
- Lower energy consumption
- Better temperature control
- Improved comfort
- Digital programming features
- Increased efficiency
A direct replacement is often possible, although electrical requirements should always be checked.
Do storage heaters require maintenance?
Storage heaters require very little maintenance. Recommended maintenance includes:
- Keeping air vents clear
- Cleaning dust from the unit
- Checking controls periodically
- Having electrical connections inspected if required
Unlike gas heating systems, storage heaters do not require annual boiler servicing.
Can storage heaters be installed in any room?
Storage heaters can be installed in most rooms, including living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, dining rooms, and home offices. Correct sizing and positioning are important to ensure optimal performance and heat distribution.
Are storage heaters environmentally friendly?
Modern storage heaters can help reduce environmental impact when used efficiently.
Benefits include:
- No direct emissions within the home
- Compatibility with renewable electricity generation
- Improved energy efficiency
- Reduced reliance on fossil fuels
As the UK electricity grid becomes greener, electric heating solutions continue to become more sustainable. Storage Heater Sales offers Elnur’s ECOHHR PLUS Storage Heaters, which utilise patented Solar Manager technology to harness surplus renewable energy in conjunction with off-peak tariffs.
Do storage heaters qualify for grants or funding?
Eligibility for heating grants and government-funded energy efficiency schemes varies depending on multiple factors; like location, household income, property type, and available government programmes. We recommend checking current UK government energy efficiency schemes or speaking with your local authority for up-to-date information.
Why buy storage heaters from Storage Heater Sales?
At Storage Heater Sales, we supply high-quality electric storage heaters designed for energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term reliability. Customers choose us for our competitive pricing, expert product advice, selection of leading storage heater brands, fast and free UK delivery, excellent customer service, and support before and after purchase.
Whether you’re replacing an old storage heater or upgrading your entire heating system, we’re here to help you find the right solution.
Need More Advice?
If you need help choosing the best storage heater for your property or have other questions before buying, contact our team for expert guidance. We can help you compare models, calculate heating requirements, and find the most energy-efficient electric heating solution for your home.