Storage Electric Heater: A Complete Guide

What are Storage Electric Heaters?

Storage electric heaters are electric heating systems that store heat during off-peak electricity hours, typically overnight, and release it gradually during the day to provide warmth.

How Do Storage Electric Heater Work?

Storage electric heater works by drawing electricity during low-demand periods, usually when energy rates are lower. Inside the heater, special ceramic or clay bricks are heated and store thermal energy. This stored heat is then released throughout the day, keeping your space warm without consuming additional electricity.

What are the Storage Electric Heater Controls?

The storage electric heater controls are consisting of thermostat, input selector, output selector, timer and boost function. Here’s a detailed guide below.  
 
Thermostat: This controls the target temperature of the room. When the room temperature falls below the set point, the heater will turn on to warm it up. 

Input Selector: This setting determines how much power the heater receives during the off-peak period. Higher settings result in a hotter core and more heat stored. You’ll typically find settings like “High,” “Medium,” and “Low.” 

Output Selector: This controls how quickly the stored heat is released. Higher settings release heat faster, making the room warm up more quickly. You’ll find settings like “Boost,” “Normal,” and “Economy.” 

Timer: This allows you to schedule when the heater starts and stops absorbing electricity during the off-peak period. This is useful if you have specific heating needs. 

Boost Function: This temporarily overrides the normal output settings to provide extra heat quickly. This is useful for warming up a room rapidly or if you have unexpected guests. 

How Long Storage Electric Heaters Take to Heat Up?

Storage electric heaters take seven hours to reach a full charge. However, larger models or those designed for higher heat output may require longer charging periods. For the most accurate information on your specific unit, you should consult the manufacturer’s instructions, as these are general estimates.

Are Storage Electric Heaters Expensive to Run in Ireland? 

Storage electric heaters in Ireland are generally affordable to run, primarily because they utilise off-peak electricity rates. By storing heat during nighttime hours when electricity is cheaper, typically around 20% less than peak daytime rates, you can lower your heating costs significantly. On average, operating a storage electric heater costs approximately €0.20 to €0.30 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), depending on your specific energy tariff and usage patterns.

Modern storage heaters come with advanced controls that optimize energy consumption, ensuring you maintain a comfortable home without unnecessary expenses. Compared to other heating options like electric radiators or gas heating, storage heaters can offer lower running costs, especially if your home is well-insulated.

Are Storage Electric Heaters Better Than Electric Radiators?

Whether storage electric heaters are better than electric radiators or not, it depends on your specific needs and circumstances.

Storage electric heaters are suitable if you primarily need daytime heating and have a suitable off-peak tariff. Whereas electric radiators are better if you need more control, responsiveness, and flexibility in your heating.  

What is an Average Cost of Storage Electric Heater per month in Ireland?

The average monthly cost of running a storage electric heater in Ireland typically ranges from €30 to €60. This estimate is based on several factors: 

Electricity Consumption: A standard storage heater consumes between 200 to 300 kilowatt-hours (kWh) each month. 

Electricity Rates: In Ireland, off-peak electricity rates for storage heaters are approximately €0.20 to €0.30 per kWh. 

Calculation Example: 

Lower Estimate: 

200 kWh x €0.20/kWh = €40 per month 

Higher Estimate: 

300 kWh x €0.30/kWh = €90 per month 

However, most households fall between these extremes, leading to the €30 to €60 range. 

How Much do Storage Electric Heaters Cost to Run per Day?

The daily cost of running a storage electric heater in Ireland typically ranges from €1 to €3. This estimate is based on several key factors: 

Electricity Consumption: A standard storage heater uses about 6 to 10 kilowatt-hours (kWh) each day. 

Electricity Rates: Off-peak electricity rates in Ireland are approximately €0.20 to €0.30 per kWh. 

Calculation Example: 

Lower Estimate: 

6 kWh × €0.20/kWh = €1.20 per day 

Higher Estimate: 

10 kWh × €0.30/kWh = €3.00 per day 

What is the Best Economical Way to Use Storage Electric Heaters? 

The best economical way to use storage electric heaters is to set your heater temperature between 18-21°C, and use your storage electric heaters during off-peak electricity hours. Here’s a detailed description below.  

Optimize Charging Times: 

Use Timers Effectively: Schedule your storage heaters to charge during off-peak electricity hours, typically overnight. This takes advantage of lower energy rates, usually around €0.20 to €0.30 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), reducing your overall costs. 

Avoid Peak Hours: Ensure heaters are not charging during peak daytime hours when electricity prices are higher. 

Set Appropriate Temperatures: 

Thermostatic Controls: Utilize the built-in thermostatic controls to maintain a comfortable room temperature without overheating. Setting the heater to a moderate temperature, such as 18-21°C, can prevent unnecessary energy usage. 

Zoning: Heat only the rooms you use regularly. This targeted approach avoids wasting energy on unused spaces. 

Enhance Home Insulation: 

Improve Insulation: Ensure your home is well-insulated by sealing windows, doors, and using insulating materials. Better insulation retains heat longer, reducing the need for constant heating. 

Use Curtains and Blinds: Close curtains or blinds at night to keep heat inside and open them during the day to let natural sunlight warm your home. 

Maintain Your Storage Electric Heaters: 

Regular Maintenance: Clean and service your storage electric heaters regularly to ensure they operate efficiently. Dust and debris can hinder performance and increase energy consumption. 

Check Controls: Ensure timers and thermostatic controls are functioning correctly to avoid unnecessary heating cycles. 

Utilize Smart Controls: 

Programmable Settings: Invest in storage electric heaters with advanced programmable settings or smart features. These allow you to adjust heating schedules remotely via smartphone apps, ensuring heating aligns with your daily routine. 

Energy Monitoring: Use smart meters or energy monitors to track your usage and identify areas where you can save more energy. 

Dress Appropriately and Use Additional Heating Wisely: 

Layer Clothing: Wearing warm clothing indoors can reduce the need for higher heating levels. 

Supplemental Heating: Use supplementary heating sources like electric blankets or portable heaters in specific areas instead of increasing the storage electric heater’s output for the entire home. 

Monitor and Adjust Usage Patterns: 

Track Consumption: Keep an eye on your energy usage and adjust your heating patterns accordingly. Small changes, like lowering the temperature by a degree, can lead to significant savings over time. 

Adapt to Seasonal Changes: Adjust your heating schedule based on the season and weather conditions to optimize energy use.