Introduction
Are you looking to save money on your electricity bills while keeping your home warm? This guide will help you understand how to use storage heaters efficiently, making the most of off-peak electricity rates. From adjusting settings to understanding your energy tariff, we cover everything you need to know. If you have any legal questions or concerns regarding your rights as a tenant or homeowner, Contend is here to help. Our highly trained AI legal experts provide guidance and support, making Contend the easiest legal help in the UK.
If you have storage heaters in your home, you might be wondering how to use them efficiently to save on your electricity bills. Storage heaters, often referred to as night storage heaters, are designed to take advantage of cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how to maximize their efficiency and keep your home warm.
Understanding Your Energy Tariff
Most people with storage heaters are on an Economy 7 tariff, which provides electricity at two different rates:
- Off-Peak Rate: A lower price for about 7 hours during the night.
- Peak Rate: A higher price during the day.
To check if you’re on an off-peak tariff, look at your energy bill. If you see different prices for electricity use or multiple meter readings, you likely have a tariff that includes off-peak hours. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to your energy supplier for clarification.
Knowing Your Off-Peak Hours
If you’re on an Economy 7 tariff, your off-peak hours usually fall between 11 PM and 8 AM, but this can vary based on your supplier and location. Remember, these hours change when the clocks change, so check with your supplier for the exact times.
If you’re not on a tariff with off-peak pricing, let your energy supplier know you have storage heaters. They can help you find the best tariff for your needs.
Operating Your Storage Heater
Manual Storage Heaters
Many older storage heaters come with two dials:
- Input Dial: This controls how much heat is stored during the off-peak hours.
- Output Dial: This regulates how much heat is released during the day.
Setting the Input Dial: Before heading to bed, set the output dial to the lowest number to prevent heat from being used overnight. The input dial setting depends on how much heat you anticipate needing the next day. Here’s a quick guide based on the season:
- Spring & Autumn: Set between 1 to 3
- Summer: Set to 1
- Winter: Set between 5 to 6
Setting the Output Dial: During the day, adjust the output dial according to your comfort level. For example, you might set it to 3 in the morning, 2 during the day, and increase it to 5 in the evening when you’re home.
Modern Storage Heaters
If your storage heater has a digital display, it might automatically manage how much heat to store based on the weather and your heating habits. You can set the desired room temperature and timer settings to optimize usage.
- Temperature Setting: A comfortable range is usually between 18°C and 21°C.
- Timer Settings: You can select options like “out all day” or “home all day” to control when the heater operates.
If You Don’t Need Heat
During warmer weather, simply turn your storage heater off at the wall. Most modern heaters retain your settings even when turned off.
Running Out of Heat
If you find you’re running out of heat too often, increase the input setting at night to store more heat. Some heaters also have a “boost” feature for extra heat, but be cautious as this uses more expensive electricity.
Safety Tips for Storage Heaters
Always ensure that your storage heater is safe to use:
- Don’t cover the heater or place items too close to it.
- Maintain a gap of at least 30 cm in front of the heater and 7.5 cm from any curtains above it.
Troubleshooting and Repairs
If your storage heater isn’t working, and you rent your home, inform your landlord immediately. If you own your home, look for a trustworthy technician to handle repairs. You can also find helpful resources and guides for troubleshooting on the manufacturer’s website, such as Dimplex manuals, Creda manuals, or Elnur manuals.
Considering Replacement
If your storage heater is old and inefficient, it might be time to consider replacement options. Newer models, known as high heat retention storage heaters, can be much more efficient. Other alternatives include connecting to the gas grid for central heating or installing a heat pump, which is eco-friendly but may require a higher upfront investment.
You might also qualify for financial assistance for energy efficiency upgrades in your home, so be sure to explore available options.
By following these guidelines, you can make the most of your storage heaters and keep your home comfortable without breaking the bank. If you’re ever in doubt, refer to the user manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions tailored to your model. For any legal concerns or questions related to your rights as a tenant or homeowner, consider trying Contend’s legal expert chat. Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
For more info, check out some of our related articles:
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- Efficient Home Heating: Guide to High Heat Retention Storage Heaters
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