Replacing Storage Heaters with a Heat Pump
Choosing the right electric heating system can make a huge difference to energy use, efficiency, and running costs. Here’s a look at how storage heaters and modern electric radiators compare with heat pumps, based on real UK data.
Storage heaters rely on electricity to store heat overnight, which could lead to high energy bills especially if on a standard variable tariff. Whilst storage heaters may be 100% efficient, an air source heat pump is 300% efficient or more meaning customers making the switch could save money on their energy bills. If you add a heat pump specific tariff, such as the one offered by our colleagues at EDF, you could make even further savings.
Heat pumps, offer a modern and efficient alternative. They extract heat from the air, even in cold weather, to warm your home. This process is not only energy-efficient but also environmentally friendly.
Switching to a heat pump could significantly reduce your energy costs especially if you are replacing storage heaters in your home.
With the added benefit of government incentives such as the boiler upgrade scheme of £7,500 towards the cost of your new heat pump*, now could be the perfect time for you to consider this upgrade.
Why Replace Storage Heaters?
Storage heaters have long been a part of many homes, but they are far less efficient than modern heating solutions. The timing of heat release can also be inconvenient, leading to cold spaces when heat is needed most. The recent cold snap has led to many homeowners with storage heaters looking for an alternative heating system for their homes.
Running cost is a significant issue as storage heaters consume a lot of electricity, resulting in high energy bills. Additionally, they are also challenging to control, offering limited temperature settings and little flexibility in terms of when you need to heat your home.
Modern alternatives like heat pumps provide an efficient, cost-effective way to heat your home. They deliver consistent warmth and control all year round, adapting easily to your, and your family’s needs.
The benefits of replacing your home’s storage heaters with an air source heat pump include:
- Lower energy bills
- Improved temperature control
- Enhanced comfort
Air source heat pumps vs. storage heaters
Air source heat pumps and storage heaters serve the same primary function: heating your home. However, they operate quite differently. Storage heaters typically use electricity to store heat generated during off-peak hours.
This stored heat is then released during the day. While this method can work, it is often inefficient and costly. In contrast, air source heat pumps extract existing heat from the air outside your home. They transfer this heat indoors with minimal energy use, making them more efficient and cost-effective.
Key differences between the two systems include:
- Efficiency: Heat pumps are more energy-efficient.
- Cost: Heat pumps lower ongoing energy expenses.
Overall, making the switch to air source heat pumps from storage heaters could provide homeowners with increased financial savings on their energy bills.
What is a wet heating system?
A wet heating system uses water to circulate heat throughout your home. This system typically involves radiators or underfloor heating. Warm water circulates through pipes, evenly distributing heat in each room.
Before you can replace your storage heaters with an air source heat pump, you will need to have a wet system installed – we call this a carcass system. A qualified installer will need to install radiators and all the relevant pipework in your home. Once this has been done, you can then install a heat pump. This will consist of an external unit, a hot water cylinder and the controls necessary to manage the system.
| Feature | Traditional storage heater | Modern storage heater | Heat Pump |
| Efficiency | 100% | 100% but with smarter control, ~20–30% energy savings | 300% – 400% |
| Annual electricity usage* | ~18,500 kWh | ~13,000–15,000 kWh | ~5,200 kWh |
| Heat control | Manual, uneven | Electronic, programmable | Consistent, adjustable |
| Energy savings potential | Low | Medium | Very High |
| Notes | Older units waste energy | Reduces waste via better insultation and controls | Moves heat from the air and highly efficient |
*Based on an the ellectricity consumption of an average 4 bedroom home with a unit cost of 27.62p at the currtent price cap. Average electricity usage for a 4 bedroom UK home is ~18,500 kWh: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/energy-advice-households/average-gas-and-electricity-use-explained Heat pump operation: Coefficient of Performance (COP): Typically 3–4, meaning 3–4 kWh of heat per 1 kWh of electricity consumed. (Nesta).
In summary, modern storage heaters and electric radiators are smarter and more efficient than older units, but for maximum energy savings and lower electricity use, heat pumps remain the superior option.
Benefits of switching to a heat pump
Switching to a heat pump offers numerous benefits for homeowners. One of the primary advantages is energy efficiency. Heat pumps consume less energy compared to traditional heating systems which could translate into reduced energy bills over time.
Heat pumps are also eco-friendly. They have a lower carbon footprint than systems reliant on fossil fuels. By using renewable energy sources, they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
What’s more, further savings can be made by pairing a heat pump with other energy saving measures such as solar panels and battery storage.
In summary, the benefits of heat pumps include:
- Significant energy savings.
- Low environmental impact.
- Year-round climate control.
- Enhanced home comfort.
Investing in a heat pump is not just about immediate savings. It’s a commitment to long-term sustainability and comfort. Over time, the cost savings and environmental benefits make them a compelling choice.
The installation process
The installation of a heat pump with us starts with a discovery call to talk through your requirements and to see if a heat pump is suitable for your home.
Once you decide to proceed and pay your deposit, we will arrange for a Technical Assessment at your home and carry out a heat loss survey. We will then design your heating system with the best heat pump and cylinder sized specifically for you and your homes’ requirements.
One of our trusted local installers will then install your heat pump with the whole process usually takes 5 days from start to finish. Your installer will show you how to use the system and make sure you are fully happy before they leave.
Conclusion: Is a heat pump right for you?
Replacing your storage heaters with a heat pump is a significant move which could save you money and keep your house warmer in the colder months and lower your energy bills. If you still have questions, please drop our team a message and one of our expert consultants will give you a call back.