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Are Storage Heaters Expensive? A Comprehensive Guide to Costs and Savings

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Storage heaters are often seen as a cost-effective heating solution, especially compared to traditional electric systems. Like any heating method, installation, energy consumption, and maintenance costs can vary. You may wonder, ‘Are storage heaters expensive? In this blog, we will explore the costs involved with storage heaters, as well as their long-term savings, helping you determine whether they are a good investment for your home.

What Are Storage Heaters?

Storage heaters are designed to store heat during off-peak electricity hours, typically overnight when energy rates are cheaper. The system releases this stored heat throughout the day to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. Homeowners commonly use storage heaters in homes that are not connected to mains gas, providing an efficient way of heating a property.

Installation Costs: Are Storage Heaters Expensive to Install?

The initial installation cost of storage heaters varies depending on the size of your home, the number of heaters you need, and whether you need to upgrade your electrical system. The cost of installing a storage heater ranges from £500 to £1,500, including the unit and installation fees.

Installation costs depend on the following factors:

  • Number of heaters: Larger properties may require more units, increasing the overall installation cost.
  • Electrical upgrades: You may need to update your wiring to handle storage heaters, which could increase upfront costs.
  • Installation complexity: If your property requires special consideration, such as an awkward layout or the need for specific permits, installation costs can rise.

Despite the potentially high initial cost, storage heaters often prove to be a cost-effective choice over time due to their energy-efficient design.

Energy Consumption and Running Costs

Storage heaters are designed to take advantage of lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, which can make them more affordable to run than other electric heating systems. However, the overall running costs depend on factors such as the size of your property, how much heat you need, and the efficiency of the units.

Efficiency and Energy Saving

Thanks to advances in technology, modern storage heaters operate much more efficiently than older models. They store and release heat more effectively, helping you reduce energy consumption. Many new models feature built-in thermostats and timers, allowing you to control when and how the heat is released.

Key points about energy consumption:

  • Off-peak tariffs: Storage heaters rely on cheaper off-peak electricity tariffs, which can help reduce running costs. If your energy provider offers Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariffs, you can take advantage of these discounted rates.
  • Heat retention: The best storage heaters retain heat throughout the day, ensuring you don’t need to run them continuously. By setting the timer to release heat only when necessary, you can further reduce energy consumption.
  • Size of the unit: Larger homes or rooms that require more heating will increase running costs. Ensuring you choose the right size of storage heater for your home is crucial to maintaining efficiency.

Average Running Costs

Running costs for storage heaters depend on the energy rates and how often the heaters are used. On average, the running cost of a storage heater can be between £200 and £500 per year, though this can vary depending on your usage patterns. For those on off-peak tariffs, storage heaters can be a more affordable option compared to other types of electric heaters.

Long-Term Savings: Are Storage Heaters Worth the Investment?

While the upfront cost of installation can be significant, storage heaters offer several long-term benefits that make them a wise investment for many households. Here’s why:

Reduced Energy Bills

By using off-peak electricity to store heat during the night, storage heaters can help lower your energy bills. The ability to control when the heat is released means you only pay for the energy you use, helping to reduce wasted heating. This can lead to savings over time, especially in comparison to traditional electric heaters that run all day.

Low Maintenance Costs

Unlike traditional heating systems, storage heaters generally require minimal maintenance. There are no moving parts, and most modern units have a long lifespan of 15 years or more. Routine checks and occasional cleaning are usually all that’s required to keep them running efficiently.

Durability and Lifespan

People know that storage heaters have longevity. When properly maintained, they can last for many years without the need for costly repairs or replacements. This means that, although the initial installation may be more expensive, the long-term savings on energy and maintenance can make them a smart investment.

Do Storage Heaters Save Money in the Long Run?

Storage heaters can be a highly cost-effective option, especially for homes with access to off-peak electricity rates. Their ability to store and release heat efficiently can result in reduced energy bills, making them a great choice for those looking to save money over time. Moreover, with low maintenance costs and a long lifespan, they offer long-term value that can offset the initial installation costs.

FAQs

Are storage heaters expensive to run?

The running cost of a storage heater can range from £200 to £500 per year, depending on your energy tariff and how often the heaters are used. If you’re on an off-peak electricity tariff, running costs can be significantly reduced.

Are storage heaters expensive to install?

The installation cost for storage heaters can range from £500 to £1,500, depending on factors such as the size of your home, the number of units required, and any necessary electrical upgrades.

Can I save money with storage heaters?

Yes, storage heaters can help save money by using cheaper off-peak electricity to store heat during the night. They also have low maintenance costs and a long lifespan, making them a cost-effective choice over time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, storage heaters can be a worthwhile investment for those looking for an efficient and affordable way to heat their home. While the initial installation costs can be higher than other types of heating, the long-term savings on energy bills and minimal maintenance costs make them an appealing choice for many households. If you’re interested in finding out more about how storage heaters could work for your home, or if you’re ready to install them, we at iCOZi are here to help. Our team offers expert advice and installation services to ensure you get the most out of your storage heater system.

For more information or to get a quote, don’t hesitate to contact us at iCOZi today.