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Many homeowners ask a simple question. Are storage heaters a big electricity user? Answers are not as simple as yes or no. The answer depends on what type of heater you have, how you use it, and your electricity tariff.
Storage heaters have been used in the UK for decades. These heaters were created for homes that do not have gas. These heaters are commonly found in apartments, flats and properties off the grid. Modern storage heaters are better than older versions, but they can still be costly if not used correctly.
This guide will explain how storage heaters operate, how much energy they consume, and how much they cost. Learn how to reduce your bills and use storage heaters more efficiently.
What Are Storage Heaters and How Do They Work?
Storage heaters are different from electric heaters. Storage heaters do not heat a room immediately. They store heat in heavy bricks. Overnight, these bricks are heated using electricity that is cheaper. The heat is released gradually during the day.
The majority of storage heaters can be used with Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariffs. These tariffs provide lower electricity rates during off-peak times. This usually happens late at night.
Storage heaters are cost-effective when used correctly. They can be a waste of electricity if they are not used properly.
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Do Storage Heaters Use a Lot of Electricity?
Storage heaters use more electricity than gas heaters. Electricity costs more per unit than natural gas. According to Ofgem, electricity costs three times as much per kWh on average as gas.
Storage heaters, on the other hand, are designed to be used at night when electricity is cheaper. The running costs can be reduced by choosing the right tariff.
The biggest problem is the age of storage heaters. Many homes are still using units that were installed more than 20 years ago. These heaters lose their heat too quickly. These heaters also lack intelligent controls. They often overcharge and release heat when not required.
Modern storage heaters with high heat retention use electricity more efficiently. The heaters release heat slowly, and only when necessary.
How Much Electricity Does a Storage Heater Use?
Electricity consumption is determined by the size of the heater and its settings. The typical storage heater is rated between 2.5 kW and 3.4 kW.
If you charge a heater for 7 hours at 3 kW overnight, the heater will use around 21 kWh each night. If you pay 12p per kWh for electricity on a low-peak tariff, your daily cost will be around £2.52.
The cost of heating multiple heaters can quickly add up.
Typical Storage Heater Electricity Use
| Heater Size | Daily Electricity Use | Monthly Use |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 kW | 17.5 kWh | 525 kWh |
| 3.0 kW | 21 kWh | 630 kWh |
| 3.4 kW | 23.8 kWh | 714 kWh |
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Storage Heater for an Hour?
Many people want to know how much it would cost to run a heater for one hour. The answer depends on whether the heater is releasing or charging heat.
A 3 kW heater will use 3 units per hour of electricity when charging it at night. At a rate of 12p/kWh off-peak, this costs about 36p/hour.
The heater will release heat during the day without using any electricity. The cost increases dramatically if you use the direct or boost heat features. Electricity during the day can cost up to 30p per kWh.
It could cost up to 90p for an hour of 3 kW use during the day.
Why Is My Storage Heater Using So Much Electricity?
Some homeowners are concerned about their high electricity bills and wonder why they use so much power.
The cause is usually a combination of factors.
Inefficient storage heaters. Even when they are not in use, the heaters leak heat. Insulation is a problem. Heat is lost quickly, causing the heater to need more charge every night.
Another major problem is incorrect input and output settings. The heater will store too much heat if the input is too high. Heat escapes if the output is open all day.
It is also costly to use daytime boost heating. It uses the highest-priced electricity at peak times.
Average Cost of Storage Heaters Per Month
How many storage heaters you have in your home, and how they are managed, will determine the average monthly cost.
In winter, a small apartment with two storage heaters can cost between £90 and £130 per month. In winter, a larger home with 4 or 5 heaters can cost £180-£300 per month.
The figures are based on Economy 7 tariffs, reasonable usage and the cost of electricity. Homes with poor insulation and constant booster heating can pay more.
Estimated Monthly Costs
| Home Size | Number of Heaters | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bed flat | 2 heaters | £90 – £130 |
| 2-bed flat | 3 heaters | £130 – £180 |
| 3-bed home | 4-5 heaters | £180 – £300 |
How Much Do Storage Heaters Cost to Run Per Day?
How much does it cost to operate a storage heater per day? In winter, a storage heater will cost you between £2 and £4 per day.
The cost of heating a home with three heaters can range from 6 to 12 £ per day. This can add up to a lot of money over a period of time.
Spring and autumn are the best times to buy. Many households switch off their heaters completely in the summer.
Storage Heaters vs Other Electric Heating
Storage heaters tend to be cheaper than panel heaters. Panel heaters consume electricity at peak rates instantly. They are, therefore, very expensive to use for long-term heat.
Daytime electricity is also used by infrared heaters, oil-filled radiators, and other heating devices. Although they may seem cheaper initially, the cost of using them increases quickly.
When used properly, modern storage heaters are the most cost-effective electric heating solution for homes that do not use gas.
Government Support for Storage Heater Upgrades
Many UK households are eligible for subsidised or free heating upgrades. The ECO4 Scheme is a government-backed program that helps low-income and non-gas households improve their energy efficiency.
Under ECO4, you can replace old storage heaters with new high-heat retention systems. Insulation upgrades can be included.
Berks Insulation has been a partner of the ECO4 Scheme for many years. The company offers free upgrades for heating systems to households that qualify. They offer free heating upgrades to eligible households.
Environmental Impact of Storage Heaters
Electric heating emits fewer direct emissions compared to gas. The environmental impact of electricity depends on the way it is produced.
Storage heaters are becoming more eco-friendly as the UK grid adopts renewable energy. Evening electricity is often a mix of wind and surplus energy. Storage heating is more environmentally friendly when it is used properly.
Common Myths About Storage Heaters
Storage heaters are considered outdated by many people. It’s not entirely true. Modern systems are more efficient and advanced than older models.
A second myth is that storage heaters are not controllable. Modern models are highly flexible and controllable.
Lack of knowledge is the biggest problem. Many users do not receive the proper instructions on setting up their devices.
Final Thoughts
How much electricity do storage heaters use?
Yes, they can be used, but only if they are old or incorrectly used.
Storage heaters are a reliable and manageable option with the correct tariff, settings and insulation. Modern systems are more efficient than older models.
Upgrade your home if you’re struggling with high electric bills. This is made easier by government schemes such as ECO4. Berks Insulation, a trusted provider, can help families make the switch to a better heating system without any financial strain.
The first step is to understand your system. The second step is to use it properly. These steps will make heating storage more comfortable and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Charge storage heaters at night. They release heat during the day without using electricity. Using the boost feature during the day, however, will increase the cost of electricity and consume it at peak rates.
Heating bills are higher in winter as heaters are on every night. The cold weather increases the demand for heat. Incorrect insulation and poor settings can also increase costs.
Gas heating is usually cheaper than storage heaters. In homes with no gas, electric heaters are the most affordable option.
Storage heaters should and can be turned off during warm months. This will prevent unnecessary charging of the battery and save electricity.
Replacing older units with new high-heat retention heaters will indeed reduce operating costs, improve comfort and lower energy consumption. Many households are eligible for free upgrades via ECO4.
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