Curious how storage heaters work, and whether they’re still a good option in 2025?
These old-school electric units were once considered a clever way to cut heating bills. But the way we live (and heat our homes) has moved on. This guide will explain how storage heaters actually work, why they often fall short in modern homes, and what your smarter alternatives look like.
Storage heaters are electric heating units that ‘charge’ overnight using cheaper, off-peak electricity, typically via a tariff like Economy 7. Inside the units is a collection of heat-retaining bricks, typically made of ceramic or clay. These bricks are heated up during the night, and store heat which is then slowly released throughout the following day. So, they’re essentially a bit like slow-release thermal batteries, and like many batteries from the 1970s, they’ve struggled to keep up with modern life.
Overnight charging: During off-peak hours (often midnight to 7am), the heater draws electricity to heat internal bricks.
Daytime release: As the day goes on, heat is gradually released into the room, regardless of whether you want it.
Basic controls: Most models have two dials: one for input (how much heat to store) and one for output (how fast it’s released).
The appeal? Using electricity when it’s cheaper.
The drawback? No flexibility when your routine, or the weather, changes.
Advantages:
Can lower running costs on off-peak tariffs like Economy 7.
Easy to install; no plumbing or boiler required.
Low maintenance with minimal moving parts.
Limitations:
Lack of control; you’re guessing tomorrow’s heat needs the night before.
Heat is often wasted when no one’s home.
Bulky design takes up space.
No zoning, timers, or smart integration.
Most units are also disconnected from today’s energy-saving tools. There’s no app control, no usage feedback, and no way to respond to real-time energy prices.
1kW in = 1kW when it comes to electricity, so technically yes. However, while they do also use cheaper electricity, they often waste heat by releasing it when no one is home. This reduces their overall efficiency.
No. Most storage heaters are entirely manual. You’ll need to adjust dials by hand, and you can’t programme heating zones or schedules.
If you want better control, lower bills, and more comfort, then yes; modern electric radiators are significantly more efficient and easier to use.
There are some modern electric heating options out there, that have evolved and technology has advanced. Some modern electric radiators can give you the benefits of lower energy usage, without the trade-offs.
One of the options available is the NEOS electric radiator, designed and manufactured in Britain for households that need smart, efficient, and low-maintenance warmth.
Here’s how the NEOS compares to traditional traditional storage heaters:
Soapstone core: Retains heat for up to 40 minutes after electricity is switched off (dependent on the nature of the room), providing lasting warmth and real-time responsiveness, without using electricity.
Dual-convection: Patented design provides double to usual convection, meaning quick and even heat distribution throughout the room.
Smart and manual controls: The option of a simple manual dial, a wireless digital thermostat, or full app-based control via a smartphone. This means you can change your heat whenever, and wherever.
Built to last: Made in Britain, with a 25-year warranty, and 100-day warmth guarantee. Our NEOS electric radiators are also manufactured with a modular design, meaning the front, side, and top panels can be refreshed, without having to replace the entire unit.
Off-peak tariff compatible: The NEOS electric radiator can be used on the Octopus Cosy Tariff to provide up to 51% cheaper energy for 8 hours throughout the day.
The NEOS is compact, discreet, and precise. No wasted heat. No bulky hardware. No guesswork.
No, not at all. The NEOS electric radiators can usually be installed using existing electrical connections and sockets, without requiring any plumbing or structural changes. You don’t need to rip your home apart to move on from outdated heating. It’s as simple as unplugging the old storage heater, and plugging in the new NEOS electric radiator. To see how straightforward installation is, check out this blog.
Whether you’re looking to replace one unit or upgrade your entire system, our heating advisors can help you plan it, step by step.
If your storage heaters are doing an alright job, but not a great one, it might be time to rethink how your home stays warm. Click here to book a free consultation with one of our heating experts, with no pressure, just smart advice tailored to your home.
Storage heaters were built for a different era. Now there’s a better way; smarter, more flexible, and designed to fit your life today.
If you’d like some more information about storage heaters, feel free to check out the following blogs:
Are Storage Heaters Efficient?
A Guide to Understanding Storage Heaters
Tags: General Guides.
If you are considering electric heating/electric radiators, then this guide tells you everything you need to know. Discover this modern, sustainable and economical method of heating that gives you complete control and comfort. Download Free Guide now.
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