Are Electric Radiators Cheaper Than Storage Heaters?
This is part of our complete overview: What are Storage Heaters?
Choosing the best heating solution for your home requires an in-depth understanding of both upfront costs and long-term running expenses. For homeowners in Scotland, the question often arises: which is better, storage heaters or electric radiators? Below, we’ll compare the two options, including their costs, flexibility, and overall efficiency, so you can make an informed decision.
What Are Electric Radiators and Storage Heaters?
Electric radiators and storage heaters both use electricity as their energy source, but they function differently. Understanding their key differences in operation is the first step to selecting the right solution for your home. These are the key differences:
Electric Radiators provide heat on demand. They are controlled individually, allowing users to heat specific rooms when needed.
Storage Heaters retain heat generated during the night, when electricity tariffs are cheaper (on plans such as Economy 7 or Economy 10). The stored heat is then released throughout the day.
Upfront Costs
When it comes to the initial cost of installation, electric radiators are usually the cheaper option.
Electric Radiators cost less to purchase and involve straightforward installation. They don’t require professional fitting, which makes them accessible for budget-conscious homeowners.
Storage Heaters, on the other hand, tend to have higher initial costs, especially for high heat retention (HHR) models. Installation by a qualified professional is often required, incurring additional expenses.
However, for homeowners in Scotland, funding schemes like ECO4 or LA Flex could significantly reduce or even eliminate the cost of storage heaters. These government-backed initiatives can provide free replacements for electric storage heaters. Check your eligibility here.
Running Costs
Running costs can vary significantly based on several factors, including your electricity tariff and heating system use. Learn more about running costs:
Storage Heaters:
Advantages:
They store heat overnight during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper.
Ideal for homes occupied during the day, offering cost-effective warmth.
Drawbacks:
Less flexible as they release stored heat throughout the day, even if it’s not required.
Poor insulation could lead to significant heat loss.
Electric Radiators:
Advantages:
They offer precise, on-demand heating, making them more energy-efficient for occasional use.
Ideal for well-insulated homes or rooms that don’t need constant heating.
Drawbacks:
Running costs can escalate on standard electricity tariffs, especially during peak hours.
Heating multiple rooms simultaneously can become costly.
Which Option Suits Your Lifestyle?
Understanding your daily routine is critical in determining whether electric radiators or storage heaters are the better choice. Find out which works best for you:
Storage Heaters Benefit Those Who:
Are home during the day and can make full use of off-peak energy savings.
Live in areas with well-insulated homes, minimising heat loss.
Electric Radiators Work Best If You
Need occasional heating or want full control over when and where heat is distributed.
Live in a smaller or newer home where heating one or two rooms is sufficient.
Additional Considerations
Energy Tariffs Matter: Both systems rely on electricity, but the choice of tariff could make or break their cost-effectiveness. Economy 7 and Economy 10 are ideal for storage heaters but don’t offer much benefit to electric radiator users.
Potential Discounts Through Grants: Scottish homeowners may qualify for funding under the ECO4 Scheme or LA Flex, potentially offering free high heat retention storage heaters. These schemes greatly reduce the financial burden of installation and replacement. View funding details here.
Heat Loss in Poorly Insulated Homes: If your home isn’t well insulated, storage heaters may lose heat quickly, negating their cost-saving potential. Consider improving insulation before deciding.
Key Takeaways
Electric radiators tend to have lower upfront costs compared to storage heaters, making them a more budget-friendly option initially.
Storage heaters are designed to take advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs, which can help lower running costs if used effectively.
Electric radiators provide more precise temperature control and quicker heating, offering convenience and flexibility for modern lifestyles.
The choice between electric radiators and storage heaters largely depends on your heating needs, daily schedule, and access to time-of-use electricity tariffs.
Consider energy efficiency, initial investment, and long-term usage to determine which option is best suited for your home.
Contact MPC Energy
The debate around "how does a storage heater differ from a radiant heater" or "are electric radiators cheaper to run than storage heaters" ultimately depends on your home, tariff, and heating requirements. Both systems have their merits; choosing the right one ensures a warmer, more cost-effective home. If upfront costs are a concern, take advantage of grants through MPC Energy, which could completely cover the installation of a storage heater. Apply for funding for free here.
