What Are Economy 7 Storage Heaters?
Economy 7 storage heaters are a specific type of electric heating system designed to take full advantage of the Economy 7 tariff. This tariff, offered by many energy providers, provides significantly cheaper electricity rates during a set period overnight, typically for seven hours. The heaters store this cheap energy as heat in special thermal bricks during the night, then release it steadily during the day when electricity prices are higher. This intelligent use of off-peak power makes them an attractive option for homeowners looking to reduce their overall heating expenditure.
- Store cheap overnight electricity as heat.
- Release heat gradually throughout the day.
- Benefit from lower running costs with Economy 7.
- Ideal for homes with dedicated night-time charging.
Think of them like a rechargeable battery for your home's warmth. While the initial investment might seem considerable, the long-term savings on your electricity bills can make them a financially sound choice, especially if your home is well-insulated. Modern units often feature improved insulation and controls, offering better efficiency and heat management than older models.
How Do They Work with Economy 7?
The core principle is simple: use cheap power when it's available. When your Economy 7 meter detects the cheaper, off-peak rate (usually starting late at night), the storage heaters automatically begin drawing electricity. This energy is used to heat up dense, high-temperature 'bricks' or thermal blocks housed within the heater's insulated casing. The amount of heat stored is controlled by a thermostat on the unit, allowing you to set how much energy it should absorb each night. As the day progresses and the ambient temperature drops, a separate manual control or automatic damper releases the stored heat into your room. This ensures a consistent, comfortable temperature without needing to switch the heater on during expensive daytime peak hours.
Ensure your home is well-insulated before installing to prevent stored heat from escaping too quickly.
Choosing the Right Storage Heater
When looking for new electric storage heaters, consider the size of the rooms you need to heat. A larger, colder room will require a more powerful unit. Many modern options, such as the Dimplex Quantum storage heaters, offer advanced controls and better heat retention than older models, maximising the benefit of the Economy 7 tariff. Always check the dimensions and heat output (measured in kilowatts) to match your specific needs. For storage heaters UK homes often favour, looking at reputable brands known for durability and efficiency is a wise move.
Maximising Savings with Storage Heaters
The primary draw of Economy 7 storage heaters is their potential to significantly reduce your home heating costs. By strategically using cheaper electricity overnight, you can effectively bypass the higher daytime rates for a substantial portion of your heating needs. This approach is particularly effective if you are home a lot during the day, as the stored heat will be available when you need it most. It’s a budget-friendly approach to keeping your living space warm without the shock of a large energy bill.
The true value of an Economy 7 storage heater lies in its ability to shift your heating consumption to the cheapest available electricity rates.
To truly maximise your savings, it’s essential to understand your household's heating patterns and adjust the heater settings accordingly. For instance, if you find you're running out of heat by late afternoon, you might need a unit with higher heat retention or a slightly larger capacity. Conversely, if you often have too much heat left over, you can reduce the amount of energy stored overnight. Some newer models offer smart controls that can learn your habits or be programmed via an app, providing even greater efficiency and control over your heating schedule.
Potential Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
One common concern with older storage heaters is that they can sometimes feel 'cold' by the end of the day if not properly managed or if the room is not well-insulated. Modern high heat retention storage heaters are designed to mitigate this, keeping heat locked in for longer. Another pitfall is not fully understanding the Economy 7 tariff itself. Ensure you know exactly when your off-peak hours are and that your meter is correctly set up. If you're unsure about your tariff or how to set your heaters, consulting your energy provider or a qualified electrician is advisable. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for heat output and dimensions to ensure they are suitable for the room size.
When Are Economy 7 Heaters Right for You?
Are Economy 7 storage heaters the correct choice for your home? They are an excellent option if you are on an Economy 7 tariff, spend significant time at home during the day, and have a well-insulated property. They are also a good fit for those seeking a set-and-forget heating solution that operates efficiently during off-peak hours. If you're looking for an affordable way to keep your home warm, especially if you've found traditional electric heating too expensive, these could offer a viable, cost-effective alternative.
Verify your current electricity tariff includes an Economy 7 option before investing in new storage heaters.
For many, especially in older properties or those not connected to mains gas, electric storage heaters provide a practical and economical heating system. By understanding their operation and setting them correctly, you can harness the benefits of cheaper overnight electricity to maintain a comfortable living environment throughout the day. When considering electric storage heaters, looking at brands like Dimplex, which offers a range of models including the advanced Dimplex Quantum storage heaters, can provide confidence in performance and reliability.