Electric storage heaters use cheaper off-peak electricity (often overnight on dual-rate tariffs like Economy 7) to heat up internal ceramic “bricks,” then release that warmth gradually through the day. They’re a practical option for homes without gas and many flats already on, or moving to, a dual-rate tariff.
What are Electric Storage Heaters?
Modern high-heat-retention (HHR) models hold heat for longer and add better controls, so you can set room temperatures and schedules more precisely. Since 2018, new electric heaters contain features like accurate electronic thermostats and 24/7 timers as standard.
Storage heaters work best when you can shift a good share of your heating to off-peak hours; if most of your use is daytime, savings will be smaller. Compared with simple panel or convector heaters, they can be cheaper to run on the right tariff while giving steady background warmth.
What to Expect
We will check your electrics, where the heaters will go, and which tariff/meter you have (or need). Storage heaters work best with a dual-rate tariff like Economy 7 that gives cheaper night-time electricity.
Heaters are fixed to the wall and wired to dedicated circuits. Many high-heat-retention models use two supplies (one off-peak for charging, one 24-hour for controls/fan) — our electrician will sort this, and some models can be set up on a single supply if needed.
During the work. Expect some lifting/moving of floor coverings near wiring points, wall fixings, dust and noise. Each room is tidied and power is tested before handover.
We will show you how to set the timer/thermostat so heaters charge off-peak and deliver heat when you need it. (Modern units include weekly programmes and features like “open-window detection”.)
Internal works usually don’t need planning permission, but listed buildings need consent.
Benefits of having Electric Storage Heaters
- Lower running costs (vs direct-acting electric) by using cheaper off-peak electricity on Economy 7/10 tariffs.
- Comfort you can plan — set temperatures and schedules so heat is there when you need it, not just when the power is cheap.
- Modern “high-heat-retention” options keep heat for longer and add smart, responsive control.
- Simple installation compared with wet radiators/pipework — ideal for flats or all-electric homes. (Wall-mounted, no boilers or flues.)
- Low maintenance — no annual boiler service or pipework to bleed/pressurise; just keep vents clear and settings optimised.
- Room-by-room zoning for better control and the potential to avoid heating unused spaces.
- Built-in efficiency features (Lot 20) such as accurate electronic thermostats and 24/7 timers as standard on new models
Sustainable Building Services: Energy efficiency measures you can trust
Sustainable Building Services (UK) Ltd is one of the UK’s leading installers of energy efficiency measures.
All measures are installed to the highest quality and Government standards.
They are installed to meet current Building Regulations for England & Wales.
An independent guarantee is provided for peace of mind, for a period of up to 25 years, and is transferable with a change of ownership of the property.
Sustainable Building Services (UK) Ltd is a member of the Consumer Code of Conduct bodies for energy efficiency and renewable energy products: Home Insulation & Energy Systems Contractors Scheme (HIES) and Consumer Protection Association (CPA).

