Blog>Cost Guides>Storage heaters: Cost breakdown 2025
Last updated: 2 July 2025
Storage heaters: Cost breakdown 2025
Find out everything you need to know about storage heating costs, including installation and running costs and the best ways to use night storage heaters for maximum efficiency.
Storage heaters remain a popular home heating solution, especially for homes on off-peak electricity tariffs.
In this guide, you'll find all you need to know about storage heater costs. This includes storage heater installation costs, how to use night-time electricity tariffs for energy-efficient heating, and tips for lowering your heating costs.
Fast Facts
Storage heaters typically cost between £400–£700 for a basic model or between £700–£1,000 for an advanced model
Replacement heater installation tends to cost in the region of £70–£150
Installing new storage heaters costs around £200–£400
How much do storage heaters cost in 2025?
The average cost of storage heaters in the UK is between £400–£700 for a basic model. More advanced storage heaters typically cost between £700–£1,000. Cost variations depend on the type of storage heater installed, its functionality, as well as installation and maintenance costs.
| Materials | Unit | Average cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic storage heater - supply only | 1 heater | £400–£700 |
| Advanced storage heater - supply only | 1 heater | £700–£1,000 |
| Labour | Unit | Average cost |
| New storage heating installation | 0.5–1 day | £200–£400 |
| Replacement heater installation | 1–2 hours | £70–£150 |
| Last updated: January 2025 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | ||
The cost of an electric storage heater varies, but as a guide, budget between £400–£700 for a basic model
More high-end storage heaters with advanced technology and functionality will cost £700–£1,000 on average
Storage heater installation costs in the UK
The cost of installing a storage heater varies depending on the complexity of the job.
New storage heater installation costs in the region of £200–£400 and generally takes 0.5–1 day to complete
Replacement heater installation costs £70–£150 on average. You can expect the installation to take 1–2 hours
Need new wiring? Budget an extra £100
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Night time storage heater cost
A no-frills option that stores heat overnight and releases it during the day.
Suitable for: Small spaces or occasional use
Typical price: £400–£700
Electric storage heater cost
Electric storage heating that comes with programmable settings, thermostats, and improved insulation, making them more energy-efficient.
Suitable for: Those looking for lower long-term storage heater running costs
Typical price: £700–£1,000
Storage heater installation: Job estimator tool
See how much storage heating installers cost in your area with our job estimator tool.
Need help working out cost? Our job estimate tool calculates the costs for you.
Factors affecting the cost of storage heaters
Three key factors will affect the cost of your storage heaters:
The size of your property: Larger homes may need multiple units, increasing the cost of the units and the installation
Brand and model: Basic storage heaters will be cheaper to buy, however, despite their higher upfront cost, premium models will save you money through superior efficiency and greater control over your heating settings
Complexity of installation: As outlined above, installing a new system is more expensive than replacing an existing one. If wiring needs to be added or upgraded, this will add to your costs
Hidden costs to watch out for
When calculating how much storage heaters cost to install, it's important to understand all the variables to help budget effectively.
Some of the additional costs to bear in mind include:
Electrical upgrades/new wiring: Budget around £100
Decorating - to touch up any paintwork around each installation area: Approximately £50
The cost of removing storage heaters: If you decide storage heaters are not right for your home, expect to pay £40 per heater for removal and disposal
Storage heater running costs
Beyond the purchase price of the unit and paying for installation, you will also need to weigh up the ongoing running costs. This will help to decide if storage heaters are the right choice for your home.
Night storage heaters use electricity supplied at cheaper, off-peak night-time tariffs (Economy 7 and Economy 10).
Since they work by radiating the heat stored at night throughout the day, you'll save on heating costs by avoiding more expensive day-time tariffs to heat your home.
Assuming you only use it on a lower rate tariff, a 2kW storage heater has an average running cost of 50p per hour*.
Tip: If you work from home, storage heating is highly cost-effective. However, heat can only be stored for around 12 hours. Therefore, if you return home from work at around 8 pm, it may not make as much sense to invest in a storage heating solution.
Tips to reduce storage heating costs
Turn the 'output' setting of your storage heater to 'off' before you go to bed
If you remember, do this whenever you leave the house or aren't in the room
If your heater has a ‘boost’ setting, use it for extra warmth, but be mindful that it'll be using a more expensive, daytime tariff
Always use the stored heat first before using any boost option
To avoid using electric or plug-in heaters, turn up the input on your storage heater instead
Cost of hiring a heating engineer vs DIY
Storage heaters must be hardwired into the mains, so it’s advisable to hire a qualified electrician or certified heating engineer. This will ensure safety and compliance with current building regulations.
On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.
Heating engineer day rates in the UK
The cost of storage heater installation is often quoted as a fixed rate, particularly for straightforward swaps.
New storage heater installation costs around £200–£400 and usually takes 0.5–1 day to complete
Replacement storage heater installation averages around £70–£150 and typically only takes 1–2 hours
Find heating engineers near you
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Alternatives to storage heaters
If storage heaters aren't suitable for your needs, consider these alternatives:
Electric radiators
Pros: Easy to install, no reliance on specific tariffs, precise temperature control
Cons: Higher running costs compared with storage heaters
Best for: Homes without off-peak tariffs or where heating is needed in specific rooms
Read more: Discover the cost of electric radiators
Infrared panels
Pros: Compact, stylish design, providing direct heating for specific areas
Cons: Limited heating range and higher upfront cost per unit
Best for: Small, well-insulated spaces or as supplementary heating
Read more: Learn about infrared heating and its costs
Heat pumps
Pros: Highly energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and government grants are available if eligibility criteria are met
Cons: Higher initial investment and requires external space for the outdoor unit
Best for: Well-insulated homes with a focus on long-term energy savings
Read more: Understand air source heat pump costs
Central heating systems
Pros: Efficient for larger homes, consistent heat distribution, can be powered by gas or electricity
Cons: Higher installation costs and ongoing maintenance requirements
Best for: Larger properties or homes with existing central heating infrastructure
Read more: Find out the cost of a new boiler in 2025
This is not an exhaustive list. The right home heating solution for your needs will depend on its suitability for the type of property and size of space you're heating, cost considerations, and personal preference. Read our post on electric heating options for a complete overview.
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Storage heater cost FAQs
What are storage heaters?
Storage heaters are a type of electric heater. They are normally wall-mounted and look a bit like radiators. Also known as 'night storage heaters', they use cheaper electricity at night to generate and then store heat in ceramic or clay bricks, which is released during the day.
Do I need a storage heater?
A storage heater may be suitable for your home if:
Your home has access to night-time electricity tariffs such as Economy 7 or Economy 10
You live in a smaller property where central heating might not be a cost-effective solution
When weighing up costs, decide on the type of unit you need, factor in the installation cost, and any other electrical work that’s needed. Get at least three quotes from local heating engineers to ensure you get a fair and competitive price.
Are storage heaters cheaper than central heating?
In short - yes. Since they run on cheap night-time tariffs and release energy during the day, they are much cheaper to run than standard electrical heaters. They're also cheaper to install than a central heating system.
Are storage heaters expensive to use?
Electricity is more expensive than gas; however, electric heating systems are more efficient. Plus, storage heaters use cheaper, night-time tariffs.
The top-rated brands of storage heaters are often the most efficient. As such, they are more expensive to install, but will cost less to run and will therefore save money in the long-term.
Are storage heaters worth it?
They're a cost-effective heating solution: Using cheaper, night-time electricity tariffs such as Economy 7 heating
Energy-efficient: Electric heating systems often achieve 100% efficiency, i.e. every unit of electricity is turned into heat
Zero-emissions: Electric storage heaters generate heat without emitting carbon directly, making them a low-carbon source of energy
Easy to install and use: Storage heaters require minimal setup once installed and have simple controls to store and release heat
What are the installation costs for a storage heater?
For replacement, storage heater installation costs around £70–£150, while new installation typically comes in at around £200–£400.
How do storage heaters work?
Storage heaters use cheaper electricity at night to generate and store heat in ceramic or clay bricks, which is released during the day.
What’s the difference between a storage heater and an electric radiator?
Storage heaters use night-time electricity to store heat. Electric radiators heat instantly but often cost more to run.
Are storage heaters being phased out?
Storage heaters are highly cost-efficient for the time being, but the Economy 7 tariff is being phased out as the UK moves towards the closure of all coal-based power plants by 2030. So, while it's worth taking advantage of the low night-time rates for the next decade, it may not be the best long-term solution.
Can storage heaters be upgraded for modern use?
Yes, many models now include smart controls and improved insulation for better efficiency.
What are the pros and cons of storage heaters?
Pros: Cost-effective, energy-efficient, low-carbon, and easy to install and use
Cons: Limited heat storage, reliance on specific tariffs, not ideal if you're out of the house during the day, as you can't enjoy the stored heat
Can I install a storage heater by myself?
No. Stored heaters must be hardwired, so use a qualified electrician or electric heating engineer.
*Prices based on energy price cap 1st Jan 2025-31st Mar 2025 - unit price for electricity 24.86p/kWh.
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