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How Storage Heaters Work: Everything You Need to Know

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Storage heaters offer an efficient way to heat your home, providing reliable warmth day and night. If you’ve been curious about how storage heaters work or whether they’re suitable for your home, you’re in the right place. At iCOZi, we specialise in providing, supplying, and installing electric storage heaters. We’re here to break down exactly how they work and the benefits they offer.

What Are Storage Heaters?

Storage heaters are a form of electric heating that stores heat during the night (typically during cheaper, off-peak electricity periods) and releases it during the day. These heaters are ideal for homes with a two-rate electricity meter, where the cost of electricity is cheaper at certain times.

How Do Storage Heaters Work?

Storage heaters consist of a heat-retaining material inside, such as clay or ceramic bricks, that absorbs electricity during off-peak hours. The heater then gradually releases this heat into the room as the day progresses. The heater uses excess power during low-tariff hours to store energy and heat the space when needed.

Night Storage

During the night, when electricity prices are lower, the storage heater uses off-peak electricity to heat up the internal bricks. These bricks efficiently absorb and store heat, ensuring that the stored warmth lasts throughout the day.

Daytime Release

Once the internal bricks have absorbed the heat, the storage heater releases it throughout the day. Some models allow you to control how much heat is released, providing a more tailored heating experience. The heat is usually distributed through vents or fans in the heater, which helps spread warmth into the room.

Types of Storage Heaters

Not all storage heaters are the same. There are various types, each with its own set of features designed to suit different needs. At iCOZi, we help you find the best electric storage heater for your home, depending on your requirements.

Traditional Storage Heaters

Traditional storage heaters have a fixed mechanism for storing and releasing heat. They usually don’t offer much control over the amount of heat released or when. However, they are typically more affordable and still effective for many homes.

Modern Storage Heaters

Modern storage heaters are much more advanced. They often come with digital controls, allowing you to set the exact temperature and decide when the heater will release warmth. This means you can be more efficient with your energy usage, ensuring that you only heat the space when necessary.

Benefits of Storage Heaters

Storage heaters are highly efficient and offer numerous benefits, particularly for homes with off-peak electricity tariffs. Here are a few reasons why storage heaters might be the right choice for you:

Cost-Efficiency

By storing heat during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper, storage heaters help reduce your overall heating costs. This makes them a cost-effective solution for homes that have access to these discounted electricity rates.

Environmentally Friendly

Storage heaters are a greener alternative to traditional heating methods because they make use of cheaper, off-peak electricity. This helps reduce electricity demand during peak hours, which can positively impact the environment.

Comfort and Control

With modern storage heaters, you can enjoy greater control over the amount of heat released into your room. Many models come with timers and digital thermostats, allowing you to adjust the settings to suit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Storage Heaters

How do I know if my home is suitable for storage heaters?

Storage heaters work best in homes with a two-rate electricity meter, allowing you to benefit from off-peak electricity. If you’re unsure whether your home is suitable, we can help assess your needs and find the best solution for you.

Are storage heaters expensive to run?

While the initial cost of installing storage heaters can be higher, they can be cost-effective in the long run due to cheaper off-peak electricity rates. However, running costs depend on your energy usage and the size of your home.

Can I control the temperature of my storage heater?

Modern storage heaters offer better control than traditional models. You can often adjust the temperature and release of heat to suit your preferences, ensuring maximum comfort and efficiency.

Conclusion

Storage heaters are an excellent choice for homes that want to benefit from cheaper off-peak electricity, providing an efficient and cost-effective heating solution. If you’re interested in learning more or need help installing storage heaters in your home, we at iCOZi are here to assist. Contact us today for more information or to get started with your installation.