If your home still runs on Economy 7 storage heaters, you’re not alone, and you’re not imagining things if the warmth isn’t quite cutting it anymore. Originally rolled out in the 1960s, these night-charging giants were designed for a different energy era: cheaper off-peak electricity, predictable usage patterns, and frankly, lower expectations of comfort.
But times and tariffs have changed. Rising energy bills, unpredictable weather, and a growing need for smarter, greener solutions have left many households stuck with outdated heating that’s hard to control, slow to respond, and no longer cost-effective.
This blog is your no-nonsense guide to upgrading. We’ll walk you through the signs it’s time to move on, what your modern options look like, and why switching to smart electric radiators like the NEOS could futureproof your home, without turning it into a renovation war zone.
Storage heaters don’t usually fail catastrophically. Instead, they gradually become more problematic and less effective. If you’re experiencing any of these common frustrations, your heating system is actively working against your comfort and financial interests.
Your bills keep creeping up
Many storage heater owners find themselves in an impossible situation; either suffer the cold or face punishing electricity costs. Economy 7 was built around the idea of cheap night-time electricity, but with modern tariffs and lifestyle changes, many people now use more energy during the day to make up for the lack of heat from storage heaters.
The heat never seems to land when you need it
Between morning and evening, the temperature tends to create a typical “too hot, too cold” scenario, especially on those days with unpredictable heating. Storage heaters release heat gradually, whether you want it to or not. By the evening, you’ll be reaching for blankets and supplementary heating. Not exactly efficient or cosy, is it?
Lack of temperature control
Storage heaters mean guessing tomorrow’s temperature, charging in advance overnight, and hoping for the best. I’m sure you deserve better than that. Today’s modern models let you set precise temperatures room by room, and hour by hour.
They’re dating your decor and hogging space
Storage heaters are bulky, dominate your wall space, and don’t give the sleek look that modern electric radiators provide. Unlike night storage heaters, some modern electric radiator models (like the NEOS) are available in over 1625 colours and 11 different styles. There’s something for everyone.
Storage heaters were built for yesterday’s energy habits. Today’s homes need something smarter.
Enter the NEOS electric radiator, a sleek, made-in-Britain upgrade designed for control, comfort, and efficiency. Unlike storage heaters that blast heat on a schedule you can’t change, the NEOS responds instantly. Its soapstone core holds warmth and releases it slowly, so your room stays warm even after it switches off.
It’s powered by Quadvex convection, which quickly moves heat evenly through the room, and prevents cold corners. You choose how it’s controlled: keep it simple with a manual Protostat, or go smarter with a wireless control or with the smartphone app. Each of the 3 styles provides the option to programme your radiators. Read this blog to learn more.
What about other options? Infrared panels heat objects directly but can be hit-and-miss in poorly insulated homes. Air-source heat pumps work well if you’ve got the space, budget, and time for major installation.
For most homes, electric radiators like the NEOS offer the best balance of performance, simplicity, and savings.
More comfort, when you want it: instant responses and full control.
Lower running costs: the NEOS is designed to reduce costs due to its back wall technology.
Smarter energy usage: smart thermostats and compatibility with tariffs like Octopus’ Cosy Tariff.
Smaller footprint, bigger value: More environmentally friendly and more aesthetic!
Eco-conscious heating: More efficient energy use and lower carbon emissions means upgrading could help push towards the UK’s net zero goal.
Ready to upgrade from storage heaters? Here’s how to switch without the stress.
1. Assess your current setup
Check how many heaters you have, which rooms need constant warmth, and what kind of control/thermostat meets your needs and abilities. Here at Trust we offer manual, wireless, or app-based.
2. Look beyond Economy 7
Households on Economy 7 tend to end up overpaying for daytime energy. Flexible rates, like the Octopus Cosy Tariff, work brilliantly with electric radiators like the NEOS. This is because the Cosy Tariff offers 8 hours of lower energy rates throughout the day, rather than just overnight like Economy 7.
3. Choose the right system.
Look for radiators that are energy-efficient, easy to control, and built to last. The NEOS electric radiator ticks all those boxes. Plus, it’s designed and made in Britain, with a 25-year warranty.
4. Remove the old, install the new.
Professional installers can safely disconnect and recycle old storage heaters. The installation process of NEOS electric radiators is smooth, straightforward and not disruptive. Want to see how easy installation really is? Watch our short video to see exactly what to expect - no surprises, no stress.
Switching systems can sound daunting, but with the right support (that’s us), it’s a smooth transition with lasting benefits.
Upgrading from Economy 7 shouldn’t just be about staying warm next winter, it’s about preparing your home for the next decade and beyond.
Modern electric radiators (like the NEOS) are built to be flexible. And as energy prices rise and regulations change, a heating system that can adapt between tariffs is essential. Combine this adaptability with smart controls and you’re in the perfect position to manage your future bills, and not just react to them.
Not only does this control and flexibility futureproof your home, but it also helps you protect the future of the planet, by reducing carbon emissions and helping us work towards the UK Net Zero goal of 2050!
Futureproofing means fewer surprises down the line, and a home that’s warmer, simpler to run, and ready for what’s next.
Economy 7 storage heaters had their moment, but it’s safe to say that moment has passed. If you’re tired of unpredictable warmth, rising bills, and clunky controls, it’s time to make the switch.
Modern electric radiators like the NEOS offer a smarter, more efficient alternative, with better comfort, better control, and long-term savings built in.
So what’s next?
If you’re curious about how a heating upgrade could work in your home, we’re here to help. Whether you’re ready to replace every unit or just want advice on where to start, our team is on hand to make it simple.
Get in touch for a free quote or speak to one of our heating experts and start futureproofing your home today.
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