How much do Storage Heaters Cost in 2024?

Storage heaters are electric heaters that charge overnight on cheaper off-peak electricity and release heat during the day. This guide covers what they cost to buy and install, what else to budget for, and how to keep costs down. Running costs depend on your electricity tariff and how you use them, so it’s worth working out whether they suit your home before you buy. We recommend using a qualified electrician for a proper installation that fits your home's needs. A professional can give valuable advice on selecting the right heater for your home.

In this cost guide we will talk about:

1. Average storage heater costs
2. How to reduce costs when installing a storage heater
3. FAQ: Frequently asked questions about storage heaters
4. Your storage heaters cost checklist

Average Storage Heater Costs

If you're thinking about installing a storage heater in your home, it's important to have a clear idea of the potential costs involved. They offer a range of options, from basic models to advanced units with dynamic control. The average storage heater cost will vary depending on the capacity, brand, and additional features like programmable timers or fan-assisted heat distribution.

Here's a brief overview to give you a general idea of what you might expect to pay:

Storage heater job	Price range
Basic storage heater (supplied and fitted)	£300–£1,000 per unit
Advanced storage heater (supplied and fitted)	£900–£1,500 per unit
Like-for-like replacement (labour only)	£60–£150 per unit
Additional electrical work	£40–£60 per hour

Standard Models

The price of storage heaters can vary a lot, depending on the model and additional features chosen. For standard models, prices generally fall between £300 to £1,000 supplied and fitted. Standard models have more basic controls over heating output, which might not suit all needs.

Advanced Models

Advanced models, which have programmable settings and better heat retention, typically cost £900 to £1,500 supplied and fitted. Some modern models lose less heat than older ones and can give you more control over when and how much they charge, which may reduce your running costs. How much, if anything, you save depends on your home and how you use them.

A like-for-like replacement typically takes 1 to 2 hours per heater. A new installation, which can involve running new cabling, may take half a day to a day, depending on the complexity of the job and any extra electrical work.

Additional Costs

In the table below you will find an overview of possible additional costs when installing storage heaters.

Additional cost	Details	Estimated price
Electrical upgrades	If your electrical system needs updating	£200–£500
Removal of old system	Including disposal fees	£150–£300
Decorating	After installation, some touch-ups may be needed	£100–£300

Factors Influencing Storage Heater Costs

• The size of the property and the number of heaters you require.
• The model and features of your storage heater.
• The complexity of your installation, including any necessary electrical upgrades.

How to Reduce Costs When Installing a Storage Heater

You can cut down on some of the expenses tied to installing storage heaters. Here are some tips to help:

• Source competitive quotes: Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Get estimates from several installers to compare prices and services.
• Compare efficiency: Choosing a model that holds heat for longer may cost more upfront but could lower your running costs over time. Compare the manufacturers’ information, as savings aren’t guaranteed.
• Check for grants: Grants for heating upgrades are mainly for eligible lower-income households, and they change often. For example, the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is scheduled to run until 31 December 2026, and England has the Warm Homes: Local Grant, delivered by local councils. Whether storage heaters are covered depends on the scheme and your circumstances, so check with your council first, and don’t assume you’ll qualify.
• Prepare the space: While the installation, and removing old heaters, should be left to professionals (storage heaters are heavy and connected to your electrical supply), you can clear the area before installation and touch up paintwork afterwards.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Storage Heaters

Are storage heaters cost-effective?

It depends on your home and how you use them. Storage heaters are designed to charge on cheaper off-peak electricity and release the heat later. But electricity generally costs more per unit than gas, and on an Economy 7 tariff the daytime rate is higher than a standard single-rate tariff. Storage heating will usually cost more to run than a gas boiler, so it’s worth getting advice on your options.

Can I install storage heaters myself?

We don’t recommend it. Storage heaters need to be connected to a suitable electrical supply, often a dedicated off-peak circuit, and the work must comply with BS 7671. In England and Wales, adding a new circuit is also notifiable under Part P of the Building Regulations, so use a qualified electrician.

How do I choose the right storage heater?

Consider the size of the space, your heating needs, and any desired features like programmable timers or fan assistance. Consult with a professional for tailored advice.

Your Storage Heaters Cost Checklist

Use this checklist when choosing and installing storage heaters for your home.

• Evaluate your needs: Assess your heating requirements before making a decision.
• Research models: Look into different storage heaters and their features.
• Check your tariff: Storage heaters work best with a cheaper off-peak tariff, so check what your supplier offers, and compare the daytime rates too.
• Get professional advice: Consult with an electrician or heating specialist.
• Check reviews: Look at customer reviews for insight on reliability and performance.
• Consider efficiency ratings: Look at how well a model retains heat, which may affect your running costs.
• Compare quotes: Don't settle on the first quote; compare multiple to find the best deal.
• Inspect the electrical system: Ensure your home's electrical system can support the new heaters.
• Plan for the future: Consider how your heating needs may change over time.

To find a professional electrician for your storage heaters installation, post your job with your postcode on MyBuilder. You can then get in touch with tradespeople in your area who can help with your heating needs.