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Economy 7 Night Storage Heaters: Costs, Benefits, Disadvantages, and FAQs
Introduction: The Legacy of Storage Heaters in the UK Storage heaters have been a familiar sight in UK homes since the mid-20th century. Originally introduced in the 1960s and 70s — particularly in social housing — these units were promoted as a convenient way to take advantage of Economy 7 tariffs. The concept was simple: store heat overnight when electricity was cheaper and release it throughout the day. Fast forward to today, and night storage heaters are increasingly seen as outdated and inefficient. In an era where energy prices are rising and smart technology is redefining home heating, many are asking: are storage heaters still a viable solution, or is it time to upgrade? In this post, we’ll break down the costs, benefits, disadvantages, and alternatives to storage heating, helping you make an informed decision for your home or business. What Is a Storage Heater and How Does It Work? The Basics A storage heater is an electric heater that stores thermal energy by heating internal ceramic bricks during off-peak electricity hours (typically overnight). The idea is that this stored heat can then be gradually released throughout the day, reducing the need for on-demand heating during peak hours. The Role of Economy 7 These systems were designed to work hand-in-hand with Economy 7 (ECO7) tariffs — a type of electricity plan that offers cheaper rates during night-time hours (usually a seven-hour window between midnight and 7 AM). Households with storage heaters often rely on ECO7 meters to benefit from these cheaper rates. Different Types of Storage Heaters 1. Traditional Night Storage Heaters These are the most common and often the oldest type. They heat up overnight and passively release heat during the day with limited control. 2. High Heat Retention Storage Heaters A more modern version, high heat retention storage heaters come with better insulation, fans for improved heat distribution, and smarter controls — but they are also significantly more expensive. 3. Combination Heaters Some newer models combine storage elements with electric radiators for top-up heating when stored heat runs out. The Pros of Storage Heaters Cheaper Night-Time Electricity If you are on an Economy 7 tariff and can manage your energy use carefully, storage heaters can offer some savings — at least in theory. Simple Operation Most older systems are easy to operate, with basic input/output dials. No Boiler or Plumbing Needed Since storage heaters are self-contained and electric, they do not require central heating systems or pipework. The Growing List of Disadvantages Poor Control and Inefficiency Storage heaters release heat gradually throughout the day — whether you need it or not. By the evening, when most people want their homes warmest, the stored heat may already be depleted. This often leads to reliance on expensive peak-rate top-up heating. Unsuitable for Modern Lifestyles With more people working from home or keeping irregular schedules, the rigid timing of storage heaters no longer suits modern energy usage patterns. Expensive to Run in Practice While Economy 7 tariffs offer lower night-time rates, day rates are significantly higher, making any additional heating very costly. Users often end up paying more in the long run — especially during colder months. Negative Impact on EPC Rating Homes relying on older night storage heaters often receive lower EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) scores, making them less attractive to buyers or tenants and harder to upgrade under energy efficiency standards. Bulky and Unattractive Traditional units are large, clunky, and often placed in inconvenient locations. Unlike modern electric radiators or infrared panels, they take up significant wall space. Maintenance and Ageing Systems Many storage heaters installed decades ago are nearing the end of their lifespan and may no longer be safe or effective. Spare parts for older models are becoming increasingly difficult to source. Are High Heat Retention Storage Heaters the Solution? Some manufacturers have tried to modernise the concept with high heat retention storage heaters. These newer systems feature better insulation, smarter thermostats, and fans for heat distribution. However: They are expensive to purchase and install — often £1,500 to £2,500 per unit They still rely on the same underlying principle: storing heat at night, hoping it lasts all day They still need an ECO7 tariff to be remotely cost-effective If used inefficiently, they can be just as expensive to run as older models While a small improvement over traditional systems, they are not the revolution in heating technology many hoped for. What Are the Alternatives? With energy efficiency becoming more important than ever — especially for those concerned about EPC ratings, energy bills, or carbon emissions — many homeowners are now exploring better options. Electric-Only Properties: Why Upgrading Your Heating System Matters Homes that rely solely on electricity for heating — known as electric-only properties — do not have access to a mains gas supply. These properties are often found in rural or remote areas and commonly use outdated systems such as storage heaters or traditional electric radiators. Some homeowners may turn to oil-fired heating, but this option is typically costly, inconvenient, and requires regular fuel deliveries and storage space. Traditional electric heating methods, including night storage heaters and older radiators, are significantly less energy-efficient — consuming up to 42% more electricity compared to modern infrared heating panels. As UK energy prices continue to rise, switching to a high-efficiency heating solution like infrared heating can dramatically lower electricity consumption and reduce monthly energy bills, making it a smart upgrade for electric-only households. Infrared Heating: A Smarter, More Efficient Choice Infrared heating is an emerging technology that offers precise, on-demand heating without the disadvantages of storage systems. How It Works Infrared panels use far infrared radiation to directly heat people, furniture, and surfaces — not the air. This results in fast, efficient warmth that does not dissipate as quickly as convective heating. Why It’s Better Than Storage Heating On-Demand Heating: Heat rooms only when and where you need it. No pre-heating or wasted energy Lower Running Costs: Infrared systems use less electricity overall compared to storage heaters and work efficiently with standard tariffs, not just ECO7 Slimline Design: Panels are sleek, modern, and can be wall- or ceiling-mounted, freeing up valuable space Improved Comfort: Provides consistent warmth without the hot/cold cycle typical of night storage heaters Higher EPC Rating: When installed properly, infrared heating can improve your home’s EPC, especially when paired with renewable energy sources such as solar panels FAQs About Storage Heaters Are storage heaters being phased out? While not banned, they are increasingly seen as outdated. Many energy assessors and landlords are replacing them with more modern alternatives to improve EPC ratings. Do storage heaters work without Economy 7? Technically yes, but they become extremely expensive to run on standard tariffs. Is Economy 7 being phased out? Economy 7 tariffs themselves are not being discontinued; however, the underlying technology that enables them — specifically the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) — is being phased out. This system, which allows certain meters to automatically switch between peak and off-peak rates, is set to be switched off by 30 June 2025. The withdrawal of RTS meters means an upgrade is required to keep your tariff working as intended. If your energy supplier hasn’t yet been in touch, it’s recommended that you contact them to arrange the necessary meter replacement and avoid any disruption. Can I replace a storage heater with an electric radiator or infrared panel? Yes, and it is often the more efficient and cost-effective solution. Electric radiators and infrared heating offer better control, lower running costs, and require minimal installation. Do high heat retention storage heaters qualify for grants? Occasionally under ECO schemes, but less so now that more efficient technologies such as infrared heating are being prioritised. Conclusion: Should You Stick with Storage Heaters? While storage heaters once had a role in energy-efficient home heating, particularly during the rise of Economy 7 tariffs, their time has largely passed. Between poor control, high running costs, and bulky designs, they no longer meet the demands of modern homes or energy-conscious homeowners. With the rise of smart, responsive, and efficient alternatives like infrared heating, sticking with old technology is not only inconvenient — it could be costing you money. Want to Upgrade from Storage Heaters? If you are still using night storage heaters and want a more efficient, affordable, and stylish alternative, we are here to help. Contact Infrared Group today for expert advice and a tailored quote. 0333 090 7160 info@infraredgroup.co.uk www.infraredgroup.co.uk
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How To Improve The Efficiency of My Radiators? Avoid This Radiator Mistake That Can Increase Your Bills.
How to Improve the Efficiency of Your Radiators (and Avoid Common Mistakes That Increase Bills) With energy prices rising and the push toward environmentally-friendly heating solutions intensifying, the need to optimise home heating systems has never been more important. For UK households, radiators remain one of the most common ways to heat a home. But while radiators are widely used, many people overlook simple yet effective ways to improve their efficiency. This can lead to unnecessarily high energy bills and increased wear and tear on boilers and pumps. In this guide, we’ll discuss various strategies for enhancing radiator efficiency and reveal common mistakes that can drive up costs. We’ll also introduce infrared heating panels as a modern, highly efficient alternative that can help lower energy bills and support a more sustainable future. Why Improving Radiator Efficiency Matters As households continue to face fluctuating energy prices, inefficient heating systems can significantly impact monthly bills. Heating is typically the biggest contributor to household energy consumption, so ensuring your radiators work efficiently is a practical way to reduce costs. Additionally, inefficient radiators can create uneven heating, cold spots, and increased wear on your boiler, which can result in costly repairs or replacements. Understanding how to improve radiator efficiency is also an important step in supporting broader climate goals. Energy wasted through inefficient systems translates into higher carbon emissions, which contribute to global warming. By enhancing radiator efficiency or even considering alternatives like infrared heating, you can take small but impactful steps toward a lower carbon footprint. Tips to Improve the Efficiency of Your Radiators Bleed Your Radiators Regularly One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve radiator efficiency is to bleed your radiators regularly. Over time, air can become trapped inside radiators, reducing their ability to warm up properly. When air pockets form, the radiator may feel warm at the bottom but remain cold at the top, which means it's not heating your room effectively. Bleeding radiators releases trapped air, allowing hot water to circulate fully and improving heat output. To bleed a radiator, turn off your heating system, locate the bleed valve, and use a radiator key to release the trapped air. You’ll know it’s ready once water starts to escape, at which point you can tighten the valve back up. Adjust Radiator Valves for Optimal Heating Radiator valves play a crucial role in determining how much heat each radiator emits. Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs) are especially useful, as they allow you to control the temperature of each radiator individually, which can help you avoid wasting heat in unoccupied rooms. By setting TRVs lower in rarely-used rooms and higher in frequently occupied spaces, you can reduce overall energy consumption without sacrificing comfort. Keep One Radiator On as a System Bypass Another key tip is to always leave one radiator on in your system. This radiator acts as a “bypass” to release pressure that can otherwise build up in a closed system. Many boilers have automatic bypass valves, but if your boiler doesn’t, leaving one radiator on prevents excess pressure from accumulating, which can protect your boiler and pump from damage. This small step not only protects your system but also helps maintain a smoother and more efficient heating process, which can translate to lower energy bills over time. Maximise Heat Distribution by Clearing Radiator Space The placement of furniture and items around a radiator can significantly affect how well it heats a room. Avoid placing furniture, curtains, or other obstructions directly in front of radiators, as these can block heat from circulating freely. Allowing space around the radiator enables heat to disperse evenly, which can make a noticeable difference in room temperature and reduce the time needed to reach a comfortable level. Insulate Behind Radiators to Prevent Heat Loss Radiators installed on external walls can lose a substantial amount of heat through the wall itself. To improve efficiency, consider adding radiator insulation foil behind your radiators. This foil reflects heat back into the room instead of allowing it to escape through the wall. Radiator foil is inexpensive, easy to install, and can reduce heat loss, particularly in older homes with less wall insulation. Consider Balancing Your Radiators If you find that some rooms heat up quickly while others remain cold, your radiator system may need balancing. Balancing radiators involves adjusting each radiator’s flow rate so that all rooms receive an even amount of heat. This process can be more technical and may require a professional, but it can make a significant difference in overall comfort and efficiency. Avoid This Common Radiator Mistake That Can Increase Your Bills One of the most common mistakes people make with their radiators is overworking the heating system by turning all radiators on high. Heating every room to the same temperature can be wasteful, particularly if some rooms are rarely used. Instead, use thermostatic radiator valves to control temperatures based on individual room needs. Another common mistake is ignoring regular maintenance of the boiler and radiator system. A poorly maintained boiler will work harder to heat your home, using more energy and driving up your bills. Scheduling an annual service for your boiler can help prevent issues and maintain peak performance. Infrared Panels: A Modern, Efficient Alternative to Radiators While traditional radiators are a tried-and-tested method of home heating, they come with certain limitations—particularly when it comes to energy efficiency. Infrared heating panels are gaining popularity as a modern, energy-efficient alternative that offers several benefits over conventional radiators. How Infrared Heating Works Infrared heating works differently from traditional radiators. Instead of heating the air, infrared panels use radiant heat to warm people and objects directly. This method is similar to the warmth you feel from sunlight and creates a more immediate sense of warmth without needing to heat the entire room’s air. This approach to heating is more efficient, as it requires less energy to achieve the same comfort level, and avoids the inefficiencies that come from heating air that then escapes through drafts or insulation gaps. Faster Heating with Lower Energy Consumption One of the standout features of infrared panels is their rapid heating capabilities. Infrared panels can begin delivering warmth within seconds, while radiators may take 30 minutes or more to reach optimal heat levels. This makes infrared heating ideal for zonal heating, as you can heat individual rooms quickly without relying on a centralised system. In terms of energy efficiency, infrared panels require up to 42% less wattage than electric convection radiators to heat a comparable space. This lower energy requirement translates to reduced electricity costs, especially when paired with smart thermostats or timers that control panel usage based on occupancy. Benefits of Infrared Heating for Your Energy Bills The direct heating method of infrared panels means they can be more economical to run than traditional radiators. With infrared, heat loss is reduced, and warmth is directed exactly where it’s needed. Additionally, infrared panels can be programmed to operate in specific zones, allowing you to heat only the rooms you’re using, which can be a game-changer for households with fluctuating occupancy. This zonal heating ability, coupled with the reduced energy requirement of infrared panels, has a direct impact on energy bills. Inefficient heating systems not only waste energy but also lead to higher bills—a problem that infrared heating helps address by delivering warmth more precisely and economically. Comparing Infrared Panels and Radiators: The Case for Efficiency Traditional radiators rely on convection heating, which works by warming the air around the radiator. This warm air then circulates, gradually raising the room temperature. However, this method often results in uneven heating, where warm air rises to the ceiling, and colder air stays closer to the floor. This uneven distribution means radiators need to work harder and longer to create a comfortable environment. In contrast, infrared heating uses radiant heat that directly warms people and objects in its path. There’s no need to circulate air, so heat is felt more immediately and distributed more evenly. This not only makes infrared panels more efficient but also reduces the overall energy required to maintain a comfortable temperature. Making the Shift: Why Consider Infrared Heating Panels? With the government’s focus on reaching net zero and the rising awareness of sustainable home solutions, there’s never been a better time to consider alternatives to traditional radiators. Infrared heating panels offer a range of benefits, from energy efficiency and reduced heating costs to the convenience of zonal heating. As the UK’s electricity grid becomes increasingly powered by renewable resources, infrared heating panels represent an effective, low-carbon solution that aligns with environmental goals. For those aiming to cut down on energy bills, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy more efficient home heating, infrared panels provide an appealing, modern solution that surpasses the limitations of conventional radiators. Conclusion: Boosting Radiator Efficiency and Exploring New Heating Options Improving the efficiency of your radiators can lead to noticeable savings on energy bills, enhance comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating system. By making small adjustments—like bleeding radiators, adjusting valves, and keeping radiator space clear—you can optimise your existing heating setup. Avoiding common mistakes, such as overheating every room or neglecting system maintenance, can also protect your boiler and help avoid unexpected repair costs. However, for those looking to invest in a highly efficient, sustainable alternative, infrared heating panels are worth considering. Offering faster heat, lower energy usage, and a modern approach to zonal heating, infrared panels provide an efficient alternative to traditional radiator systems. Whether you’re interested in lowering your carbon footprint, reducing bills, or exploring low-maintenance heating options, infrared heating can meet these needs while supporting a more sustainable future.
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Most Efficient Way to Heat a Large House or Large Building
Finding the most efficient way to heat your home or large building can be challenging, especially with so many options on the market. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, save on heating costs, or find a practical way to heat a unique space, selecting the right heating system is essential. Infrared heating panels and infrared bar heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their unique efficiency and versatility, especially for larger spaces. In this post, we’ll explore the efficiency of various heating systems, their pros and cons, and why infrared heating might be the best choice for your home or business. The Most Efficient Way to Heat a House Efficient heating for a home depends on several factors, including insulation, climate, and space layout. Let’s explore some popular home heating options and why infrared heating panels stand out. 1. Central Heating (Gas Boilers) Traditional gas boilers are a common heating method in UK homes. Central heating distributes heat through radiators or underfloor heating systems using warm water heated by a boiler. While gas boilers are efficient in heating the air, they lose heat through convection, making them less efficient than other modern systems, particularly in poorly insulated homes. Moreover, gas boilers are set to be phased out by the UK government to meet decarbonisation goals, making them a less sustainable option for the future. 2. Electric Heaters Electric heating systems, such as convector heaters or storage heaters, are commonly found in UK households. Although they are simple to install and maintain, they generally consume more electricity than infrared panels. Convection heaters work by warming the air, which then circulates around the room. Unfortunately, this can lead to uneven heating, with warmer air rising to the ceiling and leaving the lower levels cooler. This inefficiency can be particularly noticeable in homes with high ceilings, where a significant amount of heat is wasted. 3. Heat Pumps Heat pumps, including air source and ground source models, are highly efficient and eco-friendly as they transfer heat rather than generate it. They work by extracting warmth from the air or ground and transferring it indoors. Although heat pumps have high initial installation costs, they offer long-term savings due to their efficiency, often reaching 300-400%. However, they may be less efficient in colder climates and require regular maintenance to keep running efficiently. 4. Infrared Heating Panels Infrared heating panels offer a distinct advantage over other heating systems by using radiant heat rather than convection. Unlike traditional systems that warm the air, infrared panels heat objects, walls, and people directly. This approach results in lower energy consumption, as no heat is lost through air circulation. Additionally, infrared heating is ideal for zoned heating, allowing you to target specific rooms rather than heating the entire house. Here’s why infrared panels are a strong contender for the most efficient way to heat a house: Energy Efficiency: Infrared heating panels have a high level of efficiency, as they deliver direct heat without the intermediary of warming the air, thus eliminating the energy loss associated with convection. Zoned Heating: Infrared panels allow for zoned heating, meaning you can selectively heat specific rooms or areas, significantly reducing overall energy consumption. Improved Air Quality: Since infrared heating doesn’t rely on air movement, it doesn’t circulate dust or allergens, improving air quality—a benefit especially relevant for those with allergies or respiratory conditions. Aesthetically Flexible: Infrared panels come in various sleek designs, blending seamlessly into home interiors, even doubling as mirrors or decorative wall features. In terms of efficiency, infrared heating panels are highly suited for modern, well-insulated homes. They provide quick, even heating, are low maintenance, and work perfectly with smart thermostat systems, allowing you to optimise energy use by controlling the heating remotely. The Most Efficient Way to Heat a Large Building When it comes to heating larger spaces such as warehouses, churches, and older buildings with high ceilings, traditional heating methods face several challenges. Heating large buildings using conventional systems often requires a considerable amount of energy and can be prohibitively expensive. Here’s how different heating methods stack up and why infrared bar heaters are an ideal choice. 1. Convection Heating for Large Spaces Convection heating systems, including gas or electric heaters, often struggle to heat large open areas effectively. Since they work by warming the air, convection heaters lose efficiency in large, open spaces with high ceilings, where warm air rises and cools down quickly. This inefficiency can result in uneven heating, higher costs, and energy wastage, especially in buildings with limited insulation. 2. Forced Air Systems Forced air systems, such as furnaces, distribute warm air through ducts. While they can effectively heat large areas, they often result in significant energy losses due to the need to constantly reheat the air. Forced air systems also require substantial ductwork, which may be impractical or too expensive to install in certain types of buildings, particularly older or historical properties. 3. Infrared Bar Heaters for Large Spaces Infrared bar heaters offer a unique solution for heating large buildings. These heaters use both near infrared and far infrared technology to provide direct, radiant heat that warms objects and people, rather than wasting energy on heating the air. Infrared bar heaters are particularly well-suited to buildings with high ceilings or open-plan layouts, where traditional systems are often inefficient. Energy Efficiency: By heating objects and people directly, infrared bar heaters avoid the energy wastage associated with convection. This targeted heating means you can create comfortable zones within a large area without having to heat the entire space. Instant and Effective Heating: Infrared heaters provide almost instantaneous warmth, making them ideal for environments where people move in and out frequently, like warehouses or industrial spaces. Zoning and Flexibility: Infrared bar heaters allow for zoning, enabling you to heat specific areas within a larger building. This feature is invaluable for large buildings, where different sections may require different heating levels depending on occupancy or usage. Improved Comfort and Productivity: By providing focused, consistent warmth, infrared bar heaters create a more comfortable environment, improving both comfort and productivity in workplaces. Zero Maintenance: Infrared bar heaters are low-maintenance and have no moving parts, reducing the need for frequent servicing or repairs. Enhanced Air Quality: Like infrared panels, infrared bar heaters don’t circulate dust or allergens, which can be beneficial in high-traffic or dusty environments. Suitable for High-Ceiling Spaces: Large buildings with high ceilings are notoriously difficult to heat efficiently with conventional systems. Infrared bar heaters perform well in these spaces, as the heat emitted stays at the lower level, ensuring the warmth is felt by people within the area. Infrared bar heaters are ideal for large spaces because they create comfortable, zoned heating without wasting energy on unoccupied areas. Whether in a warehouse, church, or commercial facility, infrared technology provides consistent, efficient heating where it’s needed most, making it one of the most cost-effective solutions for large buildings. Key Takeaways: Why Infrared Heating is the Future Choosing the most efficient heating system depends on the space, its insulation, and your specific needs. However, for both residential and large-scale commercial applications, infrared heating stands out for its direct, energy-efficient approach. Infrared heating panels are ideal for homes, offering silent, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly heating. Meanwhile, infrared bar heaters provide a targeted, efficient solution for large buildings, reducing energy waste and creating a more comfortable environment. With the UK’s shift away from gas boilers, now is the time to consider modern alternatives like infrared heating. Not only does infrared offer long-term savings and zero maintenance, but it also aligns with sustainability goals, providing an eco-friendly, efficient heating option for homes and businesses alike. Explore our range of infrared heating panels and bar heaters to find the perfect solution for your space, and take the next step towards a more efficient, comfortable, and cost-effective heating system.
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