As the colder months settle in, staying warm at home is essential. Electric heaters, especially storage heaters, are a common way of heating homes. By using them efficiently and following simple safety guidelines, you can keep your space comfortable while managing energy costs effectively. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your heating system this winter.

Understanding your Energy tariff

One of the first steps to managing energy costs is knowing your electricity tariff. If you’re on a time-of-use tariff like Economy 7 or Economy 10, you’ll have different rates for peak and off-peak hours, with electricity typically being cheaper at night.

To find out if you’re on such a tariff, start by checking your electricity bill. Look for separate rates labelled as “day” and “night” or two sets of meter readings. If you’re unsure, contact your supplier, who can confirm your tariff details and tell you the exact off-peak times in your area.

For most Economy 7 users, off-peak hours fall between 11 PM and 8 AM, though this may vary by location or supplier. Remember that these times can shift slightly when the clocks change for daylight saving time, so it’s a good idea to double-check with your provider.

Aligning your energy usage with these cheaper hours can make a big difference. For instance, you can charge storage heaters and run other high-energy appliances during off-peak times to save money.

Using Storage heaters effectively

Storage heaters are designed to store heat during off-peak hours and release it gradually throughout the day. To get the most out of them, it’s essential to understand and adjust the controls properly.

Most storage heaters have two main settings:

• Input: This determines how much heat the heater stores. If colder weather is expected, increase the input setting to ensure your home stays warm.
• Output: This regulates how much heat is released. Keep it low during the day to conserve heat for the evening when you need it most.

For example, before bed, set the input to high so the heater can store enough warmth overnight during off-peak hours. During the day, keep the output low if you’re not actively using the room, ensuring the stored heat lasts longer.

If you’re unsure how to operate your storage heater, check out this helpful video guide.

What to do if your heater isn’t working

Sometimes, heaters may stop working due to minor issues that you can easily resolve. First, check that the heater is switched on at the wall. Then check it is switched on at the main consumer unit (or fuse board). Some newer models have a reset button or safety switch – look for this feature and follow the instructions in the manual to reset it.

If troubleshooting doesn’t solve the problem, consult your heater’s user guide or contact TCH – find out how here. In cases where the heater needs repair or replacement, TCH will arrange this for you.

Safety first

Safety is always a priority when using electric heaters. Keep them clear of flammable materials such as curtains, clothes, and furniture to avoid fire hazards. Never cover heaters, as this can cause overheating, and inspect cords and plugs on portable heaters regularly for signs of wear or damage.

If you notice any issues, switch off the heater immediately and seek professional advice. For more information, visit our Electrical Safety Guide.

Simple ways to save even more

Aside from managing your heaters, there are other ways to make your home energy-efficient during winter. For example, if you have an immersion heater for hot water, set it to heat during off-peak hours and check the hot water cylinder is well-insulated to retain heat longer.  Please contact us if your hot water cylinder requires insulation. Additionally, small adjustments like closing doors to unused rooms, using draft excluders, and hanging heavy curtains can make a big difference in retaining warmth and reducing your energy use.

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Support when you need It

If you’re concerned about energy bills or need advice, our Money Support Team is here to help. They offer practical guidance and resources to help you manage your energy costs effectively.

By following these tips, you can stay warm and safe this winter while keeping your energy use under control. If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to support you.

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Stay warm and enjoy a comfortable winter season!