How Many kW Does a Storage Heater Use?
This is part of our complete overview: What are storage heaters?
Storage heaters are a popular way to heat homes in Scotland, especially in areas without access to gas central heating. MPC Energy can help you understand how much electricity they use and help you manage energy consumption effectively. By checking your heater’s kW rating and knowing its operating hours, you can calculate its total energy usage and make informed decisions about your heating.
How to Calculate Energy Usage
Every storage heater comes with a kW rating, which represents the amount of electricity it consumes per hour when charging. Here’s how to determine how much energy your heater uses daily:
Find the kW Rating - Look for a label on the heater or check the manufacturer’s details online.
Multiply by Charging Hours - Most storage heaters charge during off-peak hours, typically around 7-10 hours overnight. Multiply the kW rating by the number of hours it charges to calculate daily consumption.
For example, a 3kW heater charging for 8 hours uses 3 kW × 8 hours = 24 kWh per day. This calculation helps you understand your heater's energy demand, which is a key factor in managing your electricity usage.
Do Storage Heaters Use a Lot of Electricity?
Storage heaters are designed to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates, which makes them more cost-effective than other electric heating options. However, their energy usage depends on factors like:
Heater Size - Larger heaters with higher kW ratings use more electricity.
Home Insulation - Poorly insulated homes lose heat quickly, leading to higher consumption.
Usage Patterns - Setting the output control too high during the day can deplete stored heat early, increasing demand.
Modern high-heat retention storage heaters are more efficient, requiring less electricity to maintain warmth throughout the day.
Tips to Reduce Energy Usage
Optimise Settings - Adjust the input based on overnight temperatures and use the output sparingly during the day.
Improve Insulation - Proper insulation reduces heat loss, making your heater work more efficiently.
Regular Maintenance - Clean vents and check for wear to keep your heater running smoothly.
Modern Storage Heaters - A Smarter Choice
Upgrading to a modern high-heat retention storage heater can help you save energy and reduce running costs. Newer models come with advanced features like:
Automatic temperature regulation based on weather conditions
Better insulation to store heat more effectively
Intuitive controls for easier management
At MPC Energy, we offer free energy surveys to help you determine if an upgrade is right for your home.
Why Choose MPC Energy?
We’re dedicated to helping Scottish households reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency. Our expert team provides tailored solutions, including modern storage heaters and energy-saving advice. If you’re curious about the energy use of your storage heater or want to explore efficient heating options, we’re here to help. Contact MPC Energy today to book a free energy survey and discover how you can make the most of your heating system.
