What are Storage Radiators and Economy 7?
Storage radiators, often referred to as night storage heaters, are a clever way to harness cheaper electricity rates, particularly those offered by an Economy 7 tariff. These heaters store thermal energy generated overnight when electricity prices are significantly lower, then release this heat gradually throughout the day. This system is ideal for households looking for affordable heating solutions, reducing reliance on more expensive peak-time electricity for keeping warm.
- Store heat overnight for daytime use.
- Work with Economy 7 electricity tariffs.
- Offer a budget-friendly heating option.
- Gradual heat release minimises temperature drops.
The core principle is simple: use low-cost electricity to charge the appliance during off-peak hours, typically between midnight and 7 AM. Inside, a dense core of heat-retaining material, like bricks or ceramic, absorbs the energy. As the ambient temperature in the room falls during the day, a thermostat or damper system within the radiator allows this stored heat to radiate outwards, warming your home without requiring continuous power draw.
The Economy 7 Advantage
An Economy 7 tariff divides your electricity usage into two distinct pricing periods: a cheaper, off-peak rate for approximately seven hours overnight, and a more expensive standard rate for the remaining 17 hours. This dual-rate structure is precisely what makes storage radiators an attractive proposition. By timing their charging cycle to coincide with the cheaper off-peak electricity, users can dramatically cut their heating expenditure compared to running conventional electric heaters or even some other heating systems that operate on a single, flat rate.
How to Use Storage Radiators Effectively
Getting the most out of your storage radiators involves understanding their charging and heat release mechanisms. The control settings on a modern electric storage heater usually include an input control, which determines how much heat is absorbed overnight, and an output control, which regulates how quickly the stored heat is released during the day. A common pitfall is setting the input too high on warmer nights, leading to overheating and wasted energy, or too low, resulting in insufficient warmth by evening.
Experiment with your storage radiator’s input and output controls. Start by setting the input to a medium level and the output to a low setting on a typical winter day, then adjust based on room temperature and how quickly you need heat. It takes a few days to learn your home’s specific needs.
Optimising Your Heat Release
For instance, on a day when you know you'll be home most of the time, you might set a higher input for a fuller charge and a moderate output. Conversely, for days when you'll be out for most of the morning, you might reduce the output setting to prevent the room from becoming too warm too early. Newer models, like some Dimplex Quantum storage heaters, offer more advanced controls and learning capabilities that can further refine this process, adapting to your lifestyle and weather patterns automatically.
The key to affordability with storage radiators lies in diligent management of their charging and release settings, aligning them precisely with your household's energy consumption patterns and the Economy 7 tariff's off-peak hours.
It's also worth considering the placement of your storage radiators. They perform best when placed on an external wall in the room you use most, allowing the stored heat to dissipate effectively into the living space. Avoid blocking them with furniture or heavy curtains, as this can impede heat distribution and reduce their efficiency, forcing you to rely more on auxiliary heating or higher output settings.
Are Storage Radiators Right For You?
Deciding if storage radiators are the best fit for your home involves weighing their cost-saving potential against their operational characteristics. They are an excellent choice for individuals or families who are home during the day and can benefit from the stored heat, or for those whose primary heating needs are in the evening after the off-peak rate has ended. Homes with good insulation will also see greater efficiency, as less heat will escape, meaning the stored energy lasts longer.
Considering the Investment
While the initial purchase and installation of electric storage heaters might represent an investment, the long-term savings on electricity bills, especially with an Economy 7 tariff, can make them a financially sensible option. Compared to some other electric heating methods, their ability to use significantly cheaper overnight electricity offers a tangible reduction in running costs. For example, Dimplex storage heaters are a popular brand known for their reliability and performance in this market.
However, if your home is very well-insulated or requires intense heat for short periods, you might find that even a fully charged storage radiator struggles to maintain warmth. In such cases, or if you are rarely home during the day, a different heating solution might be more suitable. Always check the manufacturer's specifications and consult with a heating professional to ensure the chosen units are appropriately sized for your rooms and that your existing electrical system can support them.