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Storage Heaters

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Thousands of UK homes still rely on outdated electric storage heaters — systems originally designed for an era of cheap off-peak electricity. While they were once a practical option, older storage heaters are now known for being inefficient, expensive to run, and difficult to control.

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With rising energy costs and the pressure on household budgets, many people are finding that their storage heaters simply can’t keep up. Modern electric heating systems, combined with better insulation and smart controls, can significantly improve comfort and reduce running costs.

 

Under the ECO4 and LA Flex schemes, qualifying households may be able to upgrade from unsafe, broken, or outdated storage heaters to modern, efficient alternatives.

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Why Many Storage Heaters Are Inefficient
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Traditional storage heaters work by charging up overnight using off-peak electricity, storing heat in ceramic bricks, and releasing it gradually during the day. However:

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  • Much of the heat escapes too early, leaving rooms cold by evening

  • They offer limited temperature control

  • Many models lack thermostats or timers

  • Older systems waste energy by releasing heat when it’s not needed

  • Replacing parts is often costly or impossible

  • They perform poorly in larger rooms or older, draughty homes

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As a result, households often face high electricity bills, discomfort, and uneven heating.

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Benefits of Upgrading Your Electric Heating
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Modern electric heating systems are vastly more responsive, efficient, and controllable than the storage heaters of the past. Upgrading offers:

 
1. Better Heat Control

 

New systems respond instantly rather than releasing stored heat slowly. You control the temperature, timing, and heating zones — not the heater.

 
2. Lower Running Costs

 

Modern electric heaters convert electricity to heat more efficiently and only use energy when needed. Many include adaptive thermostats that reduce waste.

 
3. Improved Comfort

 

Instead of fluctuating temperatures, you get steady, reliable warmth throughout the day and evening.

 
4. Safety & Reliability

 

New systems include thermal cut-offs, modern wiring, and built-in safety sensors. Old storage heaters can be a fire risk if damaged.

 
5. Compatibility with Modern Insulation

 

Insulated, airtight homes require responsive heating — and modern electric systems are built for that.

 
What You Can Upgrade To

 

ECO4 and LA Flex allow several types of upgrades depending on property type, EPC rating, and existing system condition. Common replacements include:

 
1. High-Heat Retention (HHR) Storage Heaters

 

A modern version of the traditional storage heater with:

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  • Advanced insulation

  • Better heat retention

  • Digital thermostats

  • Daytime boost control

  • Weekly timers

 

Benefits:

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  • Up to 27% more efficient than old storage heaters

  • Keeps rooms warm for longer

  • Lower running costs

 
2. Modern Panel Heaters (Energy-Efficient Radiant Panels)
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Electric panel heaters provide rapid, controlled heating using efficient convector or radiant technology.

 

Benefits:

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  • Instant heat

  • Precise control

  • Programmable timers

  • Low installation cost

 
3. Electric High-Efficiency Radiators
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These mimic traditional radiators but use electricity instead of water, often with oil-filled or ceramic cores for stable heat.

 

Benefits:

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  • Even heat distribution

  • Advanced thermostats

  • Excellent for smaller homes or single rooms

 
4. Electric Smart Heating Systems
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Smart systems use digital thermostats, app controls, and zoned heating.

 

Benefits:

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  • Most energy-efficient electric option

  • App-controlled temperatures

  • Only heats rooms you actually use

  • Perfect for ECO4 homes with improved insulation

 
Storage Heater Upgrades Under ECO4 & LA Flex
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Under the government-backed ECO4 scheme, households may qualify for heating upgrades if they:

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  • Rely on old, faulty, or inefficient storage heaters

  • Live in a home with a low EPC rating (E, F, or G)

  • Receive qualifying benefits or fall under local council criteria (LA Flex)

  • Are homeowners or private tenants

 

The scheme aims to improve energy efficiency, reduce running costs, and provide safe, reliable heating for homes that need it most.

 

Not every electric system can be upgraded under ECO4, but many older or broken storage heaters qualify for replacement with approved systems.

 
Signs Your Storage Heaters Need Upgrading
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  • They release heat too early in the day

  • Rooms are cold by evening

  • The heater casing feels excessively hot

  • No thermostat or timer is installed

  • Electricity bills are unusually high

  • Internal bricks are cracked or damaged

  • The system is more than 20 years old

 

If any of these apply, your home may benefit from modern electric heating.

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Types of Storage Heater Systems & Their Benefits
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 High-Heat Retention (HHR) Heaters

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  • Superior insulation

  • Long-lasting heat

  • Smart controls

  • ECO4-compliant option

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 Modern Panel Heaters

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  • Heat on demand

  • Perfect for small rooms

  • Lower installation cost

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Electric Radiators

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  • Stable, consistent warmth

  • Wi-Fi or smart thermostat options

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Smart Electric Systems

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  • Zoned heating

  • Automated timers

  • Very energy-efficient

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