Economy 7 Night Storage Heaters: Costs, Benefits, Disadvantages, and FAQs

Introduction: The Legacy of Storage Heaters in the UK

Storage heaters have been a familiar sight in UK homes since the mid-20th century. Originally introduced in the 1960s and 70s — particularly in social housing — these units were promoted as a convenient way to take advantage of Economy 7 tariffs. The concept was simple: store heat overnight when electricity was cheaper and release it throughout the day.

Fast forward to today, and night storage heaters are increasingly seen as outdated and inefficient. In an era where energy prices are rising and smart technology is redefining home heating, many are asking: are storage heaters still a viable solution, or is it time to upgrade?

In this post, we’ll break down the costs, benefits, disadvantages, and alternatives to storage heating, helping you make an informed decision for your home or business.

What Is a Storage Heater and How Does It Work?

The Basics

A storage heater is an electric heater that stores thermal energy by heating internal ceramic bricks during off-peak electricity hours (typically overnight). The idea is that this stored heat can then be gradually released throughout the day, reducing the need for on-demand heating during peak hours.

The Role of Economy 7

These systems were designed to work hand-in-hand with Economy 7 (ECO7) tariffs — a type of electricity plan that offers cheaper rates during night-time hours (usually a seven-hour window between midnight and 7 AM). Households with storage heaters often rely on ECO7 meters to benefit from these cheaper rates.

Different Types of Storage Heaters

1. Traditional Night Storage Heaters

These are the most common and often the oldest type. They heat up overnight and passively release heat during the day with limited control.

2. High Heat Retention Storage Heaters

A more modern version, high heat retention storage heaters come with better insulation, fans for improved heat distribution, and smarter controls — but they are also significantly more expensive.

3. Combination Heaters

Some newer models combine storage elements with electric radiators for top-up heating when stored heat runs out.

The Pros of Storage Heaters

Cheaper Night-Time Electricity

If you are on an Economy 7 tariff and can manage your energy use carefully, storage heaters can offer some savings — at least in theory.

Simple Operation

Most older systems are easy to operate, with basic input/output dials.

No Boiler or Plumbing Needed

Since storage heaters are self-contained and electric, they do not require central heating systems or pipework.

The Growing List of Disadvantages

Poor Control and Inefficiency

Storage heaters release heat gradually throughout the day — whether you need it or not. By the evening, when most people want their homes warmest, the stored heat may already be depleted. This often leads to reliance on expensive peak-rate top-up heating.

Unsuitable for Modern Lifestyles

With more people working from home or keeping irregular schedules, the rigid timing of storage heaters no longer suits modern energy usage patterns.

Expensive to Run in Practice

While Economy 7 tariffs offer lower night-time rates, day rates are significantly higher, making any additional heating very costly. Users often end up paying more in the long run — especially during colder months.

Negative Impact on EPC Rating

Homes relying on older night storage heaters often receive lower EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) scores, making them less attractive to buyers or tenants and harder to upgrade under energy efficiency standards.

Bulky and Unattractive

Traditional units are large, clunky, and often placed in inconvenient locations. Unlike modern electric radiators or infrared panels, they take up significant wall space.

Maintenance and Ageing Systems

Many storage heaters installed decades ago are nearing the end of their lifespan and may no longer be safe or effective. Spare parts for older models are becoming increasingly difficult to source.

Are High Heat Retention Storage Heaters the Solution?

Some manufacturers have tried to modernise the concept with high heat retention storage heaters. These newer systems feature better insulation, smarter thermostats, and fans for heat distribution. However:

• They are expensive to purchase and install — often £1,500 to £2,500 per unit
• They still rely on the same underlying principle: storing heat at night, hoping it lasts all day
• They still need an ECO7 tariff to be remotely cost-effective
• If used inefficiently, they can be just as expensive to run as older models

While a small improvement over traditional systems, they are not the revolution in heating technology many hoped for.

What Are the Alternatives?

With energy efficiency becoming more important than ever — especially for those concerned about EPC ratings, energy bills, or carbon emissions — many homeowners are now exploring better options. 

Electric-Only Properties: Why Upgrading Your Heating System Matters

Homes that rely solely on electricity for heating — known as electric-only properties — do not have access to a mains gas supply. These properties are often found in rural or remote areas and commonly use outdated systems such as storage heaters or traditional electric radiators. Some homeowners may turn to oil-fired heating, but this option is typically costly, inconvenient, and requires regular fuel deliveries and storage space.

Traditional electric heating methods, including night storage heaters and older radiators, are significantly less energy-efficient — consuming up to 42% more electricity compared to modern infrared heating panels. As UK energy prices continue to rise, switching to a high-efficiency heating solution like infrared heating can dramatically lower electricity consumption and reduce monthly energy bills, making it a smart upgrade for electric-only households.

Infrared Heating: A Smarter, More Efficient Choice

Infrared heating is an emerging technology that offers precise, on-demand heating without the disadvantages of storage systems.

How It Works

Infrared panels use far infrared radiation to directly heat people, furniture, and surfaces — not the air. This results in fast, efficient warmth that does not dissipate as quickly as convective heating.

Why It’s Better Than Storage Heating

• On-Demand Heating: Heat rooms only when and where you need it. No pre-heating or wasted energy
• Lower Running Costs: Infrared systems use less electricity overall compared to storage heaters and work efficiently with standard tariffs, not just ECO7
• Slimline Design: Panels are sleek, modern, and can be wall- or ceiling-mounted, freeing up valuable space
• Improved Comfort: Provides consistent warmth without the hot/cold cycle typical of night storage heaters
• Higher EPC Rating: When installed properly, infrared heating can improve your home’s EPC, especially when paired with renewable energy sources such as solar panels

FAQs About Storage Heaters

Are storage heaters being phased out?

While not banned, they are increasingly seen as outdated. Many energy assessors and landlords are replacing them with more modern alternatives to improve EPC ratings.

Do storage heaters work without Economy 7?

Technically yes, but they become extremely expensive to run on standard tariffs.

Is Economy 7 being phased out?

Can I replace a storage heater with an electric radiator or infrared panel?

Yes, and it is often the more efficient and cost-effective solution. Electric radiators and infrared heating offer better control, lower running costs, and require minimal installation.

Do high heat retention storage heaters qualify for grants?

Occasionally under ECO schemes, but less so now that more efficient technologies such as infrared heating are being prioritised.

Conclusion: Should You Stick with Storage Heaters?

While storage heaters once had a role in energy-efficient home heating, particularly during the rise of Economy 7 tariffs, their time has largely passed. Between poor control, high running costs, and bulky designs, they no longer meet the demands of modern homes or energy-conscious homeowners.

With the rise of smart, responsive, and efficient alternatives like infrared heating, sticking with old technology is not only inconvenient — it could be costing you money.

Want to Upgrade from Storage Heaters?

If you are still using night storage heaters and want a more efficient, affordable, and stylish alternative, we are here to help.

Contact Infrared Group today for expert advice and a tailored quote.

0333 090 7160
info@infraredgroup.co.uk
www.infraredgroup.co.uk