As domestic energy assessors, a common complaint we and others get is that a customer has removed their old storage heaters and replaced them with new electric panel electric. But after an EPC has been done, the description on the EPC rates the heating as “poor” and the EPC rating is usually lower that it was before. How can this be the case, we’re asked?

The reason is, the EPC rating is based on the running costs to provide heating and hot water to the home. The simple fact is that heating a home using peak rate electric is expensive compared to all other fuel source ie gas, oil, off peak electricity etc.

Electric panel heaters are indeed 100% efficient in the fact that if you put in 1kw, you get 1kw of heat out. But because of the high cost of electricity, even a 69% efficient gas boiler will rate higher on the EPC than a brand new electric heater. This is because to heat the very same home with peak rate electric will cost nearly 4 times as much compared to if it were heated by gas.

What the EPC is asking is, “with the fuel source used in this home, where does peak rate electricity rank in terms of cost compared to other fuel sources”, and unfortunately the answer is always going to be “Poor”.

Removing old storage heaters and replacing them with electric panel heaters is the most common mistake we see landlords make.

There is however an alternative and that is replacing the old storage heaters with modern high heat retention storage heaters. Not only are they sleaker and modern looking, they also store heat more efficiently and have a positive impact on improving the EPC rating.

What Are High Heat Retention Storage Heaters

 

A high heat retention storage heater is a type of electric heater that is designed to store heat during off-peak electricity hours and then release that heat slowly over time. This allows the heater to use electricity at a lower cost, as off-peak rates are lower than peak rates.

The heater works by using electricity to heat up a large mass, such as ceramic bricks or clay, which is then able to store heat for an extended period of time. The stored heat can then be released gradually, using a thermostat to regulate the temperature in the room.

 

How High Heat Retention Storage Heaters Work

 

Storage heaters use electricity to heat up a series of ceramic bricks or panels during off-peak hours, typically at night when energy prices are lower. These bricks or panels are insulated to prevent heat loss, allowing the heat to be stored until it is needed. During the day, the stored heat is released into the room through convection and radiation, keeping the space warm and comfortable.

Benefits of high heat retention storage heaters

One of the main benefits of high heat retention storage heaters is their ability to retain heat for longer periods of time. This means that they can continue to release heat into the room even when the electrical heating element is not in use.

This can be particularly useful for homes or businesses that need to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the day.

High heat retention storage heaters are a cost-effective way to heat a space, as they allow you to take advantage of lower electricity rates and can help to reduce your energy bills.

They are also a good choice for people who are looking for an environmentally-friendly heating solution, as they can help to reduce the overall demand for electricity and contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions.

Tips for using storage heaters effectively

 

There are a few things to consider when using storage heaters to ensure that they are working effectively and efficiently. Firstly, it is important to set the thermostat correctly to ensure that the heaters are releasing the right amount of heat into the room.

It is also a good idea to insulate the room to prevent heat loss and keep the space warm for longer.

Understanding how to use the heating controls is an important part of getting the best out of any heating system. So take some time to read the instruction manual.

Finally, it is important to maintain the heaters by cleaning and dusting them regularly to ensure that they are working at their best.

Situations where HHR storage heaters should be used

• Where the EPC rating is low because panel heaters are being used
• When replacing existing storage heaters

 

Situations where HHR storage heaters Should Not be used

• If main gas is available, then gas should be your first choice of heating system, as it will be cheaper to heat the property and it will also give you a better EPC rating.
• Where the property has a high heat demand of say over 12,000 kwhs per annum. If gas is not available then you should consider another fuel source such as oil, or a heat pump. Avoid using LPG as this will really tank your EPC ratings.

Sizing and fitting HHR storage heaters

 

When fitting a hhr storage heater, to get the correct rating on the EPC, the heater installed must be one in the epc database of high heat retention storage heaters. The heater must also be adequately sized to provide enough heating for the room taking into account:

• The room size and volume
• The heat losses of the room

Reference should be made to the manufacturers information as to which model you would need.

A dual rate or economy 7 meter would also be required to take advantage of the off peak tariff.

Current manufacturers of high heat retention storage heaters

1. Dimplex
2. Elnur
3. Stiebel Eltron
4. Creda
5. Electrorad U.K. Ltd