How to use storage heaters effectively

A storage heater is a type of electric heater often found in homes without gas central heating.

It charges up at night using cheaper off-peak electricity (like Economy 7 or Economy 10) and stores heat in internal bricks.

This heat is then slowly released during the day when electricity is more expensive.

Most storage heaters have two main settings: an input dial (to control how much heat is stored overnight) and an output dial (to control how quickly that heat is released).

Storage heaters can be expensive if they’re not used correctly or if you’re on the wrong tariff.

But with the right setup, they can be cheaper than other forms of electric heating.

Factors that affect the cost include: 

• the size, as larger heaters use more power
• electricity rates at different times
• how you use the controls

Yes.

Older models with manual dials tend to lose heat more quickly and aren’t as efficient as new models.

So it could be worth looking at upgrading to a high heat retention storage heater that does a better job of keeping heat in.

Newer models may also come with smart controls and better insulation.

Yes, if you want to upgrade to a new, more energy-efficient storage heater and you’re worried about the cost, financial help is available.

For example:

Government grants and schemes

You may qualify for support through schemes like ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation), the Great British Insulation Scheme or Home Upgrade Grant, which can include heating upgrades.

These are usually for people:

• on low incomes
• living in homes with poor energy efficiency
• using electric heating rather than gas

Local council or energy supplier support

Some councils and energy companies will also run their own energy efficiency funding schemes.

You can find your local authority’s contact details on GOV.UK and details of your energy supplier on the Ofgem website.

Charities and hardship funds

Some charities or trusts offer help with heating or appliance costs, especially if you're struggling financially or have health conditions affected by the cold.

Most storage heaters don’t use electricity during the day, so there’s no need to turn them off.

But if you have a newer high heat retention model with a fan or boost mode, check the manual, as it may draw some power during the day.

To make sure you’re using your storage heater well, try these smart habits.

Use your input control wisely

This sets how much heat the heater stores overnight.

So if you know it’s going to be cold, turn it up so you can store more heat.

And if you’re out or if the weather is warmer, turn it down to save energy and money.

Don’t just leave it on full all the time, or you’ll use more electricity than you need.

Manage your output control

This sets how fast heat is released into the room.

Keep it low during the day so the heat lasts longer.

And turn it up in the evening when you’re home and want it warm.

Don’t forget to turn it down before you go to bed so the heater keeps heat for the next day.

Use heat carefully in spring and summer

Reduce the input setting when it’s warmer.

Or switch the heater off entirely during summer to stop wasting energy.

Avoid extra plug-in heaters

Other electric heaters often cost more to run.

So before plugging in a fan or oil heater, try adjusting your storage heater output first.

If you rent, your landlord must repair heating.

And if you own your home, use a trusted professional for repairs.

Although it’s rare, storage heaters can pose a fire risk.

To stay safe, make sure you: 

• don’t hang clothes or towels over your heater
• leave at least 30cm (12 inches) between your heater and any furniture
• keep curtains at least 7.5cm (three inches) above the top of the heater

You should also make sure your storage heater is properly maintained and operating efficiently.

So take steps such as:

• cleaning regularly
• check the wiring
• not blocking or obstructing vents

If you have storage heaters, you should be on a time of use tariff, like Economy 7.

You can check what tariff you’re on by looking at your electricity bill. 

It’ll show: 

• two rates per kWh (e.g. day/night or peak/off-peak)
• two meter readings - one for each time period

If you’re not sure, just call your supplier and ask what tariff you're on.

And if you find you’re not on a time-of-use tariff, ask them about switching, so you don’t have to pay more than necessary.

These are old meters that automatically switch between night and day rates using a radio signal.

But that signal is being turned off.

So if you have an RTS meter, contact your supplier and ask them to replace your meter.

Otherwise, you may find that storage heaters and hot water stop working.

If you have storage heaters, you probably heat your water with an electric immersion heater, usually inside a hot water cylinder.

You can save money by using your main immersion heater during off-peak times (for example, if you’re on an Economy 7 tariff.

And if it has a timer, set it to come on a few hours before the end of your off-peak window.

That’s enough to heat a full tank of hot water.

Also, try to avoid using the boost function during the day unless you really need extra hot water, as it uses electricity at the more expensive daytime rate.