Storage heaters, also referred to as electric storage heaters, are an electric heating system that’s designed to both store and release heat over an extended period, usually through the day or night when electricity rates are lower. A storage heater consists of ceramic or clay bricks that are heated using electricity during off-peak tariffs such as economy 7. Electric storage heaters work by charging up overnight using cheaper night-time electricity and release heat during the day. They generate and store heat in energy cells or ceramic bricks, allowing for a gradual release of the stored heat into the room, providing a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the day.
In addition to traditional night storage heaters, the market now offers a more modern solution known as modern storage heaters, exemplified by our NEOS range. These modern storage heaters provide you with precise control over when the core heats up, granting you the flexibility to determine when and where you want to warm your home or specific rooms.
Storage heaters are a popular choice due to their reputation as an efficient and cost-effective heating solution, particularly in regions with time-of-use electricity tariffs. They are commonly installed in homes, offices, and various other spaces where the need for ample heat or consistent and manageable heating is paramount.
Storage heaters work on a simple principle of thermal storage. During off-peak hours, usually at night, they use electricity to heat up a series of ceramic or high-density bricks within the unit. These bricks have a high heat retention capacity, allowing them to store thermal energy efficiently. When the electric storage heater is turned off, a thermostat controls the release of this stored heat into the room throughout the day, providing a steady source of warmth.
The release of heat from a night storage heater is gradual, ensuring a consistent temperature and minimising energy wastage. Some modern storage heaters come with advanced controls, such as timers and thermostats, allowing users to customise their heating schedules to match their specific requirements.
Electric storage heaters are a specific type of storage heater that exclusively uses electricity for heating. They operate similarly to other storage heaters by storing heat during off-peak hours and releasing it gradually. These electric heaters are particularly popular in regions where access to natural gas or other heating fuels is limited.
Electric storage heaters typically consist of heating elements that warm up a core material, such as ceramic bricks or high-density panels. The core material acts as the heat storage medium, absorbing and retaining heat energy for later use. A thermostat and control panel enable users to regulate the heating process and ensure optimal comfort and energy efficiency. New electric storage heaters have advanced features such as minimum energy efficiency ratings, modern controls including WiFi, and compliance with Lot20 regulations, offering improved efficiency, control, and cost-saving potential.
The cost of running storage heaters depends on several factors, including electricity rates, the efficiency of the unit, insulation in your home, and how effectively you use the storage heating system. Here are some considerations:
Energy Rates: Storage heaters can be cost-effective in areas with time-of-use electricity tariffs, where night time rates are lower. However, if you rely on standard electricity rates, they may be less economical compared to other heating methods.
Efficiency: Modern storage heaters are more energy-efficient than older models, thanks to improved insulation and digital controls. Investing in newer, more efficient models can help reduce running costs. Notably, fan-assisted storage heaters are exceptionally low in energy consumption, which can significantly reduce monthly energy bills if managed properly.
Insulation: The insulation in your home plays a crucial role in the efficiency of storage heaters. Well-insulated homes retain heat better, which can help maximise the effectiveness of storage heaters and reduce overall heating costs.
Usage Patterns: Properly using your storage heaters is essential to cost-effectiveness. It’s essential to set the controls correctly, ensuring the heater charges during off-peak hours and releases heat when needed. Overheating or excessive charging can lead to unnecessary costs.
Comparatively, the cost of running storage heaters is significantly lower than installing and operating a central heating system. This is because storage heaters take advantage of off-peak tariffs and incorporate energy-saving features that central heating systems lack.
For a comparison of the running costs of a modern storage heater compared to other electric heating systems, check out our running cost guide.
An off-peak electricity tariff, like Economy 7, is a specialised pricing structure offered by some energy providers. It encourages consumers to use electricity during specific, lower-demand hours, usually during the night. Here’s how it works:
Dual Tariff: Economy 7 typically involves two different electricity rates: a lower rate during off-peak hours (usually overnight) and a higher rate during peak hours (usually during the day). These rates are set by the energy provider.
Off-Peak Hours: Off-peak hours can vary but often span from late at night until early morning. During these times, electricity usage is billed at the lower rate, making it more cost-effective for activities like heating storage heaters or charging electric vehicles.
Benefits: Economy 7 and similar tariffs can be beneficial for those who use a significant amount of electricity during off-peak hours, such as those with night storage heaters, as it can lead to cost savings compared to standard tariffs.
Using night storage heaters effectively involves understanding their operation and making the most of their stored heat. Here are some key steps:
Set the Controls: Most night storage heaters come with controls that allow you to set the input and output levels. Adjust these controls to match your heating needs and the weather conditions. Typically, you should set them in the evening for the following day.
Take Advantage of Off-Peak Rates: If you have an off-peak electricity tariff, ensure your storage heaters charge during the cheaper, off-peak hours.
Avoid Overheating: Be cautious about overloading the storage heater with excessive heat. Overcharging can lead to wasted energy and discomfort. Adjust the controls as needed.
Ventilation: Ensure that there’s adequate ventilation in the room to prevent condensation and mould growth, especially in well-insulated homes.
Regular Maintenance: Periodically clean your storage heater’s vents and elements, and have it professionally inspected to maintain its efficiency.
Here are some tips for efficient use of modern storage heaters:
Optimise Timing: Set your storage heaters to charge during off-peak hours and release heat during the day when you need it most.
Room Ventilation: Keep a slight window or door opening to ensure proper air circulation, preventing excessive humidity and condensation.
Zoning: If possible, use individual heaters for different zones or rooms to better control the temperature in each area.
Weather Adjustment: Adjust the settings based on weather forecasts. During colder spells, you may need to increase the heat output.
Insulation: Improve your home’s insulation to reduce heat loss and maximise the effectiveness of storage heaters.
Modern storage heaters have evolved significantly from older storage heaters. They incorporate advanced technology and features to improve efficiency and user-friendliness. Key characteristics of a modern storage heater include:
Digital Controls: modern storage heaters often come with digital thermostats and timers, allowing precise control over when and how much heat is released. For those seeking the ultimate in convenience, the NEOS offer seamless smart integration. You can effortlessly control through our range of thermostat options.
Improved Insulation: They feature better insulation to minimise heat loss, ensuring stored heat remains available for longer periods. Our NEOS radiators result in 40% more heat due to it’s patented Quadvex technology, click here to read more on this.
Energy Efficiency: Modern models are designed to be more energy-efficient, helping to reduce running costs and energy bills.
Smart Integration: Some contemporary storage heaters can be integrated into smart home systems, enabling remote control via smartphones or voice assistants.
Adaptive Features: Certain models have adaptive technology that learns your heating preferences and adjusts heating schedules accordingly.
Aesthetic Design: Modern models often feature sleek and compact designs that can blend seamlessly with modern interiors. Our NEOS is the slimmest on the market, only 6.5cm!
In conclusion, understanding the world of modern electric storage heaters is the key to making informed choices about your home heating. Traditional night storage heaters have served us well for years, offering cost-effective heating solutions. However, in this era of technological advancement, we invite you to consider the future of warmth and comfort with our NEOS range of modern storage heaters.
To explore the full potential of NEOS storage heaters and discover how they can revolutionize your heating strategy, we invite you to download our free brochure. Inside, you’ll find comprehensive information, detailed specifications, and insights into how NEOS can transform your daily comfort while saving on energy costs.
Don’t miss out on the future of heating — download your free NEOS brochure today and take the first step towards a warmer, more efficient, and eco-friendly home.
In 2012, Scott founded Trust and invented the NEOS electric radiator after finding a gap for a more innovative and cost-effective electric radiator within the industry. He’s the driving force behind Trust’s research and development, using market-leading strategies to keep customers warm for less.
Scott Conor
Chief Technical Officer
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