Storage Heaters: Are They Worth Considering?
Storage heaters can indeed be a sensible choice for many UK households, particularly if you're looking for an affordable way to heat your home. These electric heaters work by absorbing low-cost electricity, typically overnight via an Economy 7 tariff, and storing that heat in ceramic bricks. They then release this warmth gradually throughout the day, offering a consistent background heat. They are a popular option in homes without access to a gas supply, or for those seeking to minimise initial installation costs compared to other systems.
- They offer an affordable electric heating option.
- Utilise cheaper overnight electricity tariffs.
- Provide consistent background warmth.
- Suitability depends on usage patterns.
The primary appeal lies in their ability to leverage cheaper off-peak electricity rates. This makes them a more economical choice than standard electric heaters that draw power only when needed, often during peak tariff times. For individuals or families who are out of the house during much of the day, the stored heat can provide ample warmth upon their return, without incurring high daytime electricity bills. However, their effectiveness is closely tied to how well your home is insulated.
For instance, a well-insulated property will retain the stored heat far more effectively, meaning the heater doesn't need to work as hard or draw as much power to maintain a comfortable temperature. Conversely, a draughty, poorly insulated home will lose heat quickly, negating much of the benefit of the stored energy and potentially leaving you feeling chilly.
Understanding Economy 7 and Storage Heater Performance
The performance and cost-effectiveness of storage heaters are intrinsically linked to the Economy 7 tariff, or similar off-peak electricity plans. These tariffs provide a block of hours, typically overnight, where electricity is significantly cheaper than standard daytime rates. By charging the storage heater's insulated core during these cheaper hours, you're essentially pre-purchasing your heating energy at a reduced price. Dimplex Quantum storage heaters, for example, are designed to intelligently manage this charging process.
The key to maximising their benefit is understanding your heating needs. If your lifestyle involves being home during the day and needing significant heat, traditional storage heaters might struggle to provide enough warmth throughout the entire period, especially in colder weather. Modern iterations, like the Dimplex Quantum, offer improved controllability and are often more efficient at retaining and releasing heat.
To gauge if storage heaters are a good fit, track your current daily heating usage and compare it against the typical charging and discharge patterns of storage heaters, especially considering your home's insulation levels.
When considering which storage heaters are right for your needs, think about the size of the room they need to heat and the level of insulation in your home. A unit too small won't store enough heat, while one that's too large might overheat a well-insulated space. The range of storage heaters available, from standard models to more advanced units like the Dimplex Quantum, means there are options for different budgets and performance expectations.
Practical Considerations for Storage Heater Users
When asking 'are storage heaters any good', the practical realities of their use are paramount. One common pitfall is misjudging the heat output. Unlike conventional electric radiators, you cannot simply turn up the dial for instant heat. The heat is 'released' based on the stored energy and the heater's settings. You need to learn how to manage the controls to ensure you have sufficient heat when you need it. For instance, adjusting the 'charge' level controls how much heat the heater absorbs overnight, and the 'output' control regulates how quickly that heat is released during the day.
The true value of storage heaters lies not just in their technology, but in matching them to a suitable lifestyle and tariff.
Installation is another factor. While they don't require the same complex pipework as a central heating system, they do need to be wired into your home's electrical system. It's always advisable to have them installed by a qualified electrician to ensure safety and efficiency. They are a more common sight in older properties or for people on an Economy 7 tariff who want a heating system that can take advantage of those cheaper off-peak rates.
The primary benefit remains affordability for background heat. If your home is well-insulated and you primarily need to maintain a comfortable ambient temperature rather than seeking rapid, intense bursts of heat, storage heaters could be a very good option. For those requiring immediate, high-temperature heat on demand, they may not be the ideal solution.
Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the 'goodness' of storage heaters for your home hinges on several factors: your current electricity tariff, the insulation quality of your property, and your daily routine. They are excellent for providing consistent, affordable background warmth, especially when combined with an Economy 7 tariff, but they require a bit of learning to operate effectively.