Electric Heating in Your Rental Home: Storage Heaters, Electric Radiators and Economy 7 Explained
A practical guide to understanding your electric heating system, keeping your home warm and managing your electricity bills.
If you have recently moved into a property with electric heating, you may be wondering how it works, which settings to use and how much it will cost to run.
Not all electric heating systems work in the same way. Some produce heat immediately when switched on, while others store heat overnight to keep your home warm during the following day.
Understanding which type you have is particularly important because using the wrong settings or electricity tariff could result in unnecessarily high energy bills.
This guide from Silver Oak Property Limited explains the different systems, how to operate them and what to check before contacting us about a heating problem.
1. Understanding the Different Types of Electric Heating
There are two main types of electric heating commonly found in rental properties.
Electric Storage Heaters
Storage heaters are designed to store heat, usually overnight, and release it gradually throughout the following day.
Inside the heater are special heat-retaining materials that warm up when electricity passes through the heating elements.
Once charged, the heater releases the stored warmth into your room, even when it is no longer consuming electricity to charge.
Storage heaters are commonly used with Economy 7 or other off-peak electricity tariffs, which offer cheaper electricity during certain hours.
Important things to know:
Storage heaters generally need to charge before they can provide their full heating capacity.
Older models normally have INPUT and OUTPUT controls.
Newer models may have digital displays, thermostats and programmable timers.
Some models have a BOOST function that uses additional electricity to provide immediate heat.
Electric Radiators and Panel Heaters
Standard electric radiators and panel heaters operate differently.
Instead of storing heat overnight, they use electricity to produce heat when you need it.
For example, if you switch on your radiator at 6pm, it will begin heating the room without needing to charge the previous night.
These heaters usually have a thermostat, timer or digital control panel.
Important things to know:
They provide heat on demand.
They do not normally need Economy 7.
You pay for electricity at the rate applicable when the heater is operating.
A thermostat can help reduce consumption by switching the heating element off once the desired temperature is reached.
Programmable timers allow you to heat rooms when they are needed.
Some electric radiators contain oil or other heat-retaining materials. They may remain warm for a while after switching off, but this does not make them overnight storage heaters.
2. What Is Economy 7 and How Does It Work?
Economy 7 is an electricity tariff that provides two different rates:
Off-peak (night rate): Seven hours of cheaper electricity, usually overnight.
Peak (day rate): A higher electricity rate during the remaining 17 hours.
For example, your supplier might provide cheaper electricity between midnight and 7am.
However, these hours are not the same for every property. They depend on your meter, electricity supplier and tariff. Some arrangements may also change with the clocks.
Always confirm your exact off-peak hours with your electricity supplier.
Why Is Economy 7 Useful for Storage Heaters?
Storage heaters can use cheaper electricity overnight to build up heat for the next day.
Without a suitable off-peak tariff, charging a storage heater may cost considerably more.
Economy 7 can therefore be beneficial in properties where a significant proportion of electricity is used overnight.
However, it is not automatically the cheapest option for everyone.
If your property uses only standard electric radiators, which operate mainly during the day or evening, a single-rate electricity tariff may be more economical.
Do Storage Heaters Have to Use Economy 7?
Not necessarily.
Storage heaters can operate with different electricity arrangements, including other time-of-use tariffs. Some can also operate on a single-rate supply.
However, the heater's wiring, controls and metering arrangement must be compatible with the chosen tariff.
Changing your electricity tariff does not automatically change when a dedicated off-peak heating circuit becomes live.
If you have storage heaters, speak to your electricity supplier before changing tariffs or requesting a meter change. Explain that your property has storage heating and ask them to confirm compatibility with your existing setup.
3. How to Use Older Storage Heaters Correctly
Traditional storage heaters usually have two controls labelled INPUT and OUTPUT.
Understanding the difference is essential.
INPUT: How Much Heat to Store
The INPUT control determines how much heat the heater stores during its charging period.
Low input means less electricity consumed and less heat stored.
High input means more electricity consumed and more heat stored.
During mild weather, you may only need a low or medium input setting.
During colder winter weather, you may need a higher setting.
Remember that increasing INPUT does not usually provide immediate heat. It prepares the heater for its next charging period.
OUTPUT: How Quickly Heat Is Released
The OUTPUT control determines how quickly the stored heat is released into your room.
Low output releases heat more slowly.
High output releases heat more quickly.
A common mistake is leaving OUTPUT on maximum throughout the day.
This can cause the heater to release most of its stored heat during the morning, leaving very little warmth available by the evening.
A Simple Daily Routine
Before going to bed:
Set INPUT according to how much heating you expect to need the following day.
Turn OUTPUT down to a low setting so the heater retains more warmth for later.
During the morning:
Increase OUTPUT if you need additional warmth.
During the day:
Reduce OUTPUT when you are out or do not need as much heating.
During the evening:
Increase OUTPUT if there is stored heat remaining and you want the room warmer.
These are general instructions for traditional manual storage heaters. Always follow the manufacturer's guidance for your specific model.
Even with OUTPUT turned down, older heaters will normally release some heat naturally.
4. How to Use Modern Storage Heaters
Modern high-heat-retention storage heaters are usually easier to control.
They commonly include:
Digital temperature controls
Programmable heating schedules
Automatic charging functions
Room thermostats
Holiday or away settings
Optional BOOST functions
Instead of manually deciding how much heat to store every night, some models automatically calculate the amount required for the following day.
Recommended Setup
Check that the heater's clock displays the correct time and day.
Set your preferred room temperature. Around 18°C to 21°C is a common starting point, depending on your needs.
Programme the times when you normally require heating.
Select the appropriate heating mode, such as Home or Away, if available.
Check whether automatic BOOST is enabled and understand how it works.
Be careful with BOOST mode.
Many storage heaters use a separate direct electric heating element for BOOST. This can consume electricity at the more expensive daytime rate.
Occasional use may be necessary, but frequent boosting can significantly increase your electricity bill.
Some modern heaters also need a permanent power supply for their display, clock or controls, as well as an off-peak charging supply.
Do not switch off unfamiliar wall switches or alter the wiring arrangement. Check the heater instructions first.
5. How to Use Standard Electric Radiators Efficiently
If your property has electric radiators or panel heaters rather than storage heaters, the operating method is different.
These heaters generally produce warmth when their heating elements are switched on.
For efficient use:
Set a comfortable temperature using the thermostat.
Use the timer to match your daily routine.
Reduce heating in rooms that are not being used, while keeping the property adequately heated.
Avoid setting the thermostat unnecessarily high.
Keep furniture and curtains clear of the heaters.
Check that the heater is not left in a continuous heating mode unnecessarily.
Turning a thermostat up to 30°C will not normally make the room heat up faster. It simply tells the heater to continue heating until a much higher temperature is reached.
If your radiator has an electronic timer, check the programmed times carefully.
6. How Much Does Electric Heating Cost to Run?
The cost depends on three main factors:
The heater's electricity consumption.
How long it operates.
Your electricity tariff.
Electricity consumption is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
As a simple example, a 2kW electric heater operating at full power for three hours consumes 6kWh.
If your electricity costs 25p per kWh:
6kWh × £0.25 = £1.50
If the same amount of electricity costs 15p per kWh during an off-peak period:
6kWh × £0.15 = £0.90
These prices are illustrative, not current tariff quotations. Actual costs depend on your electricity contract, standing charge and the amount of energy your heater uses.
A thermostatically controlled heater may consume less than its full rated power over a longer period because it switches its heating element on and off.
Are Storage Heaters Cheaper Than Electric Radiators?
Storage heaters can be cheaper to operate when they charge using lower-priced off-peak electricity.
However, they are not automatically more electrically efficient than direct electric radiators.
Both types of conventional resistance heater convert electricity into heat. The main savings from storage heating come from buying electricity at cheaper times and controlling when the stored heat is released.
Your property's insulation, heating habits and tariff will also affect the final cost.
7. How to Check Your Electricity Meter and Tariff
When moving into a new rental property, it is important to understand your electricity arrangement.
Start by checking your electricity account or contacting your supplier.
Ask the supplier to confirm:
Whether you have a single-rate or dual-rate electricity tariff.
Whether your meter supports Economy 7 or another off-peak tariff.
Your exact off-peak electricity hours.
Your day and night unit prices.
Whether your storage heating circuits are correctly configured.
Whether your current tariff is suitable for the heating installed.
If you have an Economy 7 tariff, your electricity bill will normally show separate day and night consumption and prices.
Your meter may show two readings, sometimes labelled Rate 1 and Rate 2, but do not assume which is day or night without checking with your supplier.
A compatible smart meter can also record electricity consumption at different rates.
Important: If your property has storage heaters and you are considering changing electricity suppliers, tariffs or meters, tell the supplier about your heating system before making changes.
This helps avoid problems with heaters not charging at the correct times.
If you have an older Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meter, contact your electricity supplier about replacement. Support for this technology has ended, and affected heating or hot water systems may no longer operate correctly.
8. Electric Hot Water Systems
Some electrically heated properties also use an immersion heater to provide hot water.
This is separate from your room heating, but it can have a significant effect on your electricity bills.
An immersion heater warms the water stored inside a hot water cylinder.
Some systems have two heating elements:
Main immersion heater: May be configured to heat water during cheaper off-peak hours.
BOOST immersion heater: Provides additional hot water when needed, potentially using more expensive daytime electricity.
If your hot water system has a timer, check that it is correctly programmed and compatible with your tariff.
Avoid leaving a manual BOOST setting running unnecessarily.
If you are unsure how the hot water controls work, contact Silver Oak Property Limited for guidance rather than adjusting electrical connections.
9. Common Electric Heating Problems
My Storage Heater Is Cold During the Day
Check whether it had sufficient time to charge overnight.
Also check whether the INPUT setting was too low for the weather conditions.
If it was completely cold first thing in the morning despite being correctly set to charge, there may be a problem with the electricity supply, controls or heater itself.
My Storage Heater Is Warm in the Morning but Cold by the Evening
This may mean that the stored heat has been used too quickly.
Try reducing OUTPUT during the morning and daytime.
You may also need a higher INPUT setting during colder weather.
My Electric Radiator Is Not Heating
Check that the heater is switched on, the thermostat is set above the current room temperature and the timer is not preventing operation.
If the heater displays an error code, make a note of it.
Do not remove covers or attempt electrical repairs.
My Electricity Bill Is Unexpectedly High
Check the following:
Are you on the most suitable tariff for your heating system?
Are storage heaters charging during the intended off-peak hours?
Are you frequently using BOOST functions?
Are electric radiators running continuously?
Is the hot water immersion heater operating for longer than necessary?
Are your electricity meter readings and bills accurate?
If you suspect an incorrect meter reading, tariff or billing problem, contact your electricity supplier.
If a heater appears to be malfunctioning or operating incorrectly, report the issue to Silver Oak Property Limited.
10. Simple Ways to Keep Your Home Warm and Reduce Costs
Small changes can make a difference to your electricity consumption.
Use timers and thermostats: Heat rooms according to your routine instead of running heaters unnecessarily.
Understand your storage heater controls: Avoid releasing all the stored warmth too early.
Check your tariff: Make sure it suits the heating system installed.
Keep curtains closed after dark: This can help reduce heat loss through windows.
Do not block heaters: Allow heat to circulate around the room.
Use BOOST sparingly: It can be expensive when operating during peak-rate periods.
Maintain appropriate ventilation: Use extractor fans and ventilation facilities to help control moisture and condensation.
Monitor your usage: Check meter readings and electricity bills regularly, particularly during your first winter in the property.
Never cover electric heaters or use them to dry clothes. Follow the manufacturer's minimum clearance requirements.
11. Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Leave My Storage Heater Switched On Overnight?
Storage heaters generally need access to electricity during their designated charging periods.
If your heater uses an automatically controlled off-peak supply, it should charge according to that arrangement.
Some modern models also need continuous electricity for their controls.
Do not switch off the power every night unless the manufacturer's instructions specifically recommend doing so.
Can I Get Immediate Heat From a Storage Heater?
Traditional storage heaters are primarily designed to release heat stored earlier.
Some models include an electric BOOST function that provides additional heat immediately, but this may be more expensive to run.
Do I Need Economy 7 for Standard Electric Radiators?
Not usually.
Standard electric radiators use electricity when they are heating the room, so a single-rate tariff may be more appropriate.
However, the best tariff depends on your overall electricity usage, including any overnight appliances or hot water heating.
Why Is My Storage Heater Still Warm When Switched Off?
Storage heaters contain heat-retaining materials that continue releasing warmth after the charging period has finished.
This is normal.
Can I Change My Electricity Supplier?
Where you are responsible for paying the electricity supplier directly, you can generally choose your supplier.
However, if your property has storage heating, make sure any proposed supplier and tariff support the existing metering and heating arrangements.
What If I Do Not Understand My Heating Controls?
Look for the manufacturer's name and model number on your heater.
You can often find a user manual online.
If you still cannot identify the correct settings, contact Silver Oak Property Limited with a photograph of the heater and its controls.
12. When Should You Contact Silver Oak Property Limited?
Understanding and operating your heating controls is part of managing your home, but you are not expected to repair faulty heating equipment.
Please report problems such as:
A storage heater that does not charge despite having the correct settings and electricity supply.
An electric radiator that fails to produce heat.
Damaged heating controls or electrical switches.
Repeated error messages or suspected equipment faults.
Heating that cannot adequately warm the property.
Unusual noises, burning smells or signs of overheating.
If you notice smoke, burning smells, sparking or other signs of electrical danger, stop using the equipment if it is safe to do so. Do not attempt to repair it. Contact the appropriate emergency service where there is an immediate danger.
Under Welsh housing law, landlords have responsibilities for maintaining heating installations and keeping rented homes fit for human habitation.
Electricity suppliers are normally responsible for questions about your electricity tariff, billing and metering arrangements.
Silver Oak Property Limited is here to assist with heating maintenance issues and help you understand the equipment provided in your rental property.
Final Advice for New Tenants
Before your first winter in an electrically heated property, take a few minutes to identify the type of heating installed and check your electricity tariff.
If you have storage heaters, learn how they charge, when electricity is cheaper and how to manage the release of stored heat.
If you have standard electric radiators, focus on using thermostats and timers to match your daily routine.
Correct settings and a suitable electricity tariff can make a significant difference to both your comfort and your energy bills.
For further assistance with heating equipment at your rental property, please contact Silver Oak Property Limited.
Silver Oak Property Limited | Property Sales, Lettings & Management in Carmarthenshire and South Wales
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