It’s 2023, an era of advanced technology and Artificial Intelligence technology being the norm in our homes. And the idea of using storage heaters as the primary means of heating may seem old-fashioned to most – but is it? In this article, we explore whether today’s storage heaters are still useful as a domestic heat source for any size of property.
A history of storage heaters
Storage heaters have been used for heating homes and buildings since the early 20th century. The basic concept of a storage heater is to store heat generated during off-peak hours, when electricity is cheaper, and release the heat during the day when it is needed.
The first electric storage heaters were developed in Germany in the 1920s, and were soon adopted in other countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Early models were relatively basic and inefficient, but over time, improvements were made to the design and technology.
In the 1950s and 1960s, storage heaters became more widely used in the UK, particularly in areas without access to natural gas. The government encouraged their use as a way to reduce peak demand for electricity and avoid the need for expensive new power plants.
By the 1970s, storage heaters had become a common sight in many UK homes, especially in social housing. They were seen as a cost-effective and efficient way to heat homes, particularly for those on low incomes. However, as energy prices rose in the 1980s and 1990s, their popularity declined, as people sought more modern and efficient heating systems.
Today, storage heaters are still used in some parts of the UK, particularly in areas without access to gas or for those on economy tariffs.
How do storage heaters store and release heat?
Storage heaters work by storing heat energy during off-peak hours, when electricity is cheaper, and releasing the stored heat during the day when it is needed. Here’s how they work in more detail:
Charging
At night, when electricity is cheaper, the storage heater uses an electric element to heat up ceramic bricks inside the unit. The bricks absorb and store the heat energy.
Storage
Once the bricks have been heated, they store the heat energy until it is needed during the day.
Discharging
During the day, the bricks release the stored heat into the room through convection and radiation. A thermostat inside the unit controls the release of the stored heat to maintain a constant temperature.
Advantages of storage heaters
Cost-effectiveness
Storage heaters are generally cheaper to run than other forms of electric heating. They are designed to be used in conjunction with a cheap overnight electricity tariff, which allows the heater to charge during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper.
Energy efficiency
Storage heaters are designed to store and release heat energy, which means they can be more energy-efficient than other forms of electric heating. And modern storage heaters have insulation to prevent heat loss, which can help to keep the room warm for longer and ensure they are as efficient as possible.
Ease of use
Storage heaters are easy to use, with simple controls that allow you to adjust the temperature and heat output as needed.
Easy to install
Unlike other heating methods like gas, storage heaters do not require any pipes, meaning there is minimum disruption caused by installing new storage heaters in your home.
Quiet operation
Today’s storage heaters operate at a low volume, with only a slight noise from their fan, which can be an advantage in bedrooms or other quiet areas of the home.
Low maintenance
Storage heaters require very little maintenance, as they have no moving parts and do not require regular servicing.
Reduced carbon footprint
Unlike gas or oil heating systems, storage heaters do not produce any emissions, making them a more environmentally-friendly heating option.
Overall, the main advantage of storage heaters is their cost-effectiveness, particularly if you have access to off-peak electricity. They are also easy to use and require very little maintenance, which can make them a good choice for many households.
Disadvantages of storage heaters
Limited control
Storage heaters are designed to release heat throughout the day, which means you may have limited control over the exact timing or amount of heat that is released.
Inefficient in warmer weather
During warmer weather, storage heaters may continue to release heat even if it is not needed, which can lead to wasted energy and increased costs.
Slow to respond
Storage heaters can take several hours to heat up, which means they may not be suitable for households that need heat quickly, such as in the morning or in the evening.
Not suitable for some homes
Storage heaters may not be suitable for all homes, particularly if the home has poor insulation or if electricity prices are high.
Are storage heaters suitable for your home?
Storage heaters are ideal for small flats and older properties where it wouldn’t be cost-effective to install central heating. They can be installed in most rooms in the home, but there are some factors to consider when deciding on the best location:
- Room size: The size of the room will determine the size of the storage heater needed. Larger rooms will require larger storage heaters to provide enough heat.
- Insulation: Storage heaters work best in well-insulated rooms, as they rely on the heat being retained in the room. If a room is poorly insulated, heat can escape quickly, leading to increased costs and reduced efficiency.
- Orientation: Storage heaters work best when they are located on an internal wall, as they rely on the heat being retained in the room. If a heater is located on an external wall, heat can be lost to the outside.
- Ventilation: Storage heaters require adequate ventilation to prevent the build-up of moisture and condensation. They should not be installed in areas that are prone to dampness or high humidity.
- Accessibility: Storage heaters should be installed in a location that is easily accessible for maintenance and cleaning.
- Safety: Storage heaters should not be installed near combustible materials, such as curtains or furniture. They should also be installed at a safe distance from any flammable materials or sources of heat.
Final thoughts
Storage heaters can be a cost-effective and energy-efficient heating option for some homes, although they may not be the best choice for everyone. The advantages of storage heaters can outweigh the disadvantages, depending on the size and age of your property.
Overall, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your home when deciding on the best location for storage heaters. A qualified heating engineer or electrician can provide advice on the best location for your specific needs. Contact us to learn more.
