Best energy tariff for electric storage heaters (UK)
If you heat your home with storage heaters, the “best” tariff is usually the one that matches how your meter charges you (single-rate vs Economy 7/10) and when you can store heat. Use this guide to identify the right tariff type, avoid common pitfalls, and compare whole-of-market options with confidence.
- Find out whether you’ll likely benefit more from a cheap night rate or a strong single rate
- Learn how meter type (including smart meters) affects which tariffs you can actually get
- See realistic scenarios with numbers (assumptions shown) and a checklist to decide
Estimates only. Tariff availability depends on your meter, region, payment method and supplier criteria. Always check your tariff name and rates before switching.
Fast answer: what’s usually best for storage heaters?
For most UK homes using electric storage heaters correctly (charging overnight and releasing heat during the day), the best value tariff is often a multi‑rate electricity tariff such as Economy 7 (or sometimes Economy 10), because a large share of your usage can move into cheaper off‑peak hours.
But: if your home can’t reliably shift enough electricity to the night rate (for example, you use lots of daytime electric heating, you rarely charge the heaters, or you have a poor off‑peak window), a good single‑rate tariff can be cheaper overall.
Key takeaways (quick scan)
- Economy 7 suits many storage-heater homes if you can put roughly 40%+ of your electricity into off‑peak hours (rule of thumb; your break‑even depends on rates).
- Single-rate suits homes with lower total electricity use or limited off‑peak usage, and some properties with modern high-heat-retention heaters used less predictably.
- Meter type matters: some meters (including legacy Economy 10 and certain complex set-ups) restrict which suppliers can take you without a meter change.
- Don’t choose on unit rates alone: standing charge, night/day split, and your heating pattern usually decide the winner.
Before you compare
- 1) Confirm your meter set-up
- Look for two readings on your bill/app (often labelled Day/Night or Rate 1/Rate 2), or ask your supplier what tariff and meter type you’re on.
- 2) Estimate your off-peak share
- If you have a smart meter/in-home display, check off‑peak vs peak usage. If not, use your storage-heater charging schedule as a proxy.
Compare whole-of-market tariffs for storage heater homes
Tell us a few details and we’ll match you with tariffs that suit your meter and usage pattern (including single-rate and Economy 7 where available). You’ll see estimated costs and key terms like exit fees and payment method.
Tip for accuracy: if you can, have your latest bill to hand. The tariff name and whether you have one or two readings helps avoid mismatched quotes.
How to choose (simple decision path)
- If your meter shows two readings (Day/Night): start by comparing Economy 7 tariffs and single-rate alternatives—then check the break-even (we show you how below).
- If your meter shows one reading: compare single-rate tariffs first. Consider whether changing to Economy 7 is practical (it may require a meter change and changes to how you heat).
- If you have Economy 10 or a complex set-up: focus on suppliers who support it, or consider whether a meter change to Economy 7/single-rate is appropriate for your property (ask about costs and implications).
Get your energy quote
We’ll use this to show tariffs available for your address and contact you if you want help switching.
Storage heater tariffs: what you’re really comparing
Below is a practical comparison of the main tariff types UK storage-heater households typically consider. Your best match depends on your meter, your off-peak window, and how much electricity you can shift overnight.
| Tariff type | How it works | Often suits | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy 7 (two-rate) | Cheaper unit rate for ~7 hours overnight; higher day rate. Two readings (or smart equivalent). | Storage heaters charged overnight; heavy usage can be shifted off-peak. | If you use lots of electricity in the day (e.g., panel heaters), the higher day rate can outweigh the benefit. |
| Economy 10 (multi-rate) | Typically ~10 off-peak hours split across day/night (varies by region/meter). | Homes needing top-up heat at set times; some storage heater systems designed for it. | Not supported by all suppliers; switching can be more complex and may require specialist metering support. |
| Single-rate electricity | One unit rate all day; one reading. | Lower usage, minimal overnight load-shifting, or daytime heating/working-from-home patterns. | You miss out on cheap off-peak charging for storage heaters unless you change meter/tariff. |
| Time-of-use smart tariffs (dynamic/TOU) | Prices vary by time (and sometimes day). Requires a compatible smart meter and supplier. | Very flexible households that can shift usage and actively manage timings. | Rates can be complex; not always better than Economy 7 for simple overnight charging. Understand peak periods and price caps/terms. |
Decision checklist (who it suits / who it doesn’t)
Economy 7 is likely to suit you if:
- You regularly charge storage heaters overnight.
- You can run high-use appliances off-peak (e.g., dishwasher, washing machine) safely.
- Your hot water is electric and can heat overnight (where applicable).
- You’re home more in the evening than daytime (less daytime electric heating).
Single-rate may be better if:
- Your storage heaters aren’t used much, or you rely on daytime top-up heating.
- You’re at home all day and use lots of electricity in peak hours.
- Your off-peak window is short/awkward for your set-up.
- You have a high standing charge on current multi-rate tariffs and low usage overall.
Quick break-even test (practical)
To estimate if Economy 7 beats single-rate, compare the difference between day and night rates against the single rate.
Rule of thumb (not universal): Economy 7 often becomes competitive when your off‑peak share is around 40–50% or higher. The exact point depends on the specific rates and standing charges available to you.
If you share your bill details in our quote form, we can help you sanity-check the likely split and shortlist suitable tariffs.
Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)
These examples show how the “best” tariff can change based on your day/night usage split. Figures are illustrative estimates and exclude any discounts/add-ons. Always use your own rates and usage for decisions.
Scenario A: Storage heaters used properly (Economy 7 wins)
- Annual electricity use: 5,000 kWh (all-electric flat with storage heating)
- Off-peak share: 55% (2,750 kWh night) / 45% (2,250 kWh day)
- Illustrative rates: Economy 7 day 30p/kWh, night 15p/kWh; standing charge 60p/day
- Single-rate alternative: 26p/kWh; standing charge 55p/day
| Option | Usage cost (estimated) | Standing charge (estimated) | Total (estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy 7 | (2,250×£0.30) + (2,750×£0.15) = £1,087.50 | 365×£0.60 = £219.00 | £1,306.50 |
| Single-rate | 5,000×£0.26 = £1,300.00 | 365×£0.55 = £200.75 | £1,500.75 |
In this pattern, the cheaper night rate more than compensates for the higher day rate.
Scenario B: Daytime-heavy usage (single-rate wins)
- Annual electricity use: 3,500 kWh (storage heaters rarely charged; panel heater top-ups)
- Off-peak share: 25% (875 kWh night) / 75% (2,625 kWh day)
- Illustrative rates: Economy 7 day 31p/kWh, night 16p/kWh; standing charge 60p/day
- Single-rate alternative: 27p/kWh; standing charge 55p/day
| Option | Usage cost (estimated) | Standing charge (estimated) | Total (estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy 7 | (2,625×£0.31) + (875×£0.16) = £953.75 | 365×£0.60 = £219.00 | £1,172.75 |
| Single-rate | 3,500×£0.27 = £945.00 | 365×£0.55 = £200.75 | £1,145.75 |
With low off‑peak usage, the higher Economy 7 day rate (plus standing charge differences) can erase the night-time benefit.
Important: Standing charges and unit rates vary by region, supplier, payment method (direct debit vs prepayment), and tariff type. The best tariff in one postcode may not be best in another.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK)
These are the issues we see most often for storage heater customers—especially when switching between multi‑rate and single‑rate tariffs.
1) Off-peak hours aren’t always what you think
Economy 7 off‑peak times vary by region, supplier and meter configuration (and can shift with daylight saving). Confirm your exact off‑peak window with your supplier—don’t assume it’s always midnight to 7am.
2) You might have a restricted meter or related set-up
Some storage heating systems have separate circuits/controls or legacy metering that not all suppliers support. You may need a meter change before switching—or a supplier that can keep your current set-up.
3) Standing charge can make a “cheap” unit rate less competitive
If your annual usage is modest, a higher standing charge can wipe out unit-rate savings. Always compare estimated annual cost, not just p/kWh.
4) Electric hot water can change the maths
If you heat water with electricity (immersion), you may be able to schedule it off‑peak. If it heats mainly on-peak, your Economy 7 benefit can be smaller than expected.
5) Exit fees and fixed terms
Some fixed tariffs include exit fees. Check your current tariff’s end date and any fees before switching (particularly if you’re moving from one fixed deal to another).
6) Prepayment vs direct debit differences
Tariff pricing and availability can differ for prepayment meters. If you’re prepay and want to move to direct debit, suppliers may run credit checks or request a deposit depending on circumstances.
If you’re unsure: use our quote form and include your current tariff name (if known). We’ll aim to show only tariffs compatible with your meter setup, and highlight where a meter change may be required.
FAQs: storage heaters & UK energy tariffs
Do I need Economy 7 if I have storage heaters?
Not always. Storage heaters were designed to charge on cheaper overnight electricity, so Economy 7 (or Economy 10) often makes sense. But if you don’t (or can’t) charge them off‑peak, a competitive single‑rate tariff can be better.
How do I know if I’m on Economy 7?
Check your bill or online account for two electricity unit rates (often labelled Day/Night or Rate 1/Rate 2) and/or two meter readings. If you have a smart meter, the tariff can still be multi‑rate—your supplier can confirm.
What are the off-peak hours for Economy 7?
They vary by area and meter configuration. Many households get 7 hours overnight, but the exact times can differ and can shift with daylight saving. The safest approach is to ask your supplier or check your meter/tariff documentation.
Can I switch supplier if I have Economy 10 or a legacy storage-heating meter?
Often yes, but it can be more limited because not all suppliers support every Economy 10 configuration or restricted meters. You may be offered fewer tariffs, or a meter change might be needed. Always confirm compatibility before you agree a switch.
Is a smart tariff better than Economy 7 for storage heaters?
It depends. Smart time‑of‑use tariffs can be excellent for flexible households, but they can also have expensive peak periods. For straightforward overnight charging, a good Economy 7 tariff may be simpler and more predictable. Always compare the full schedule and terms.
Will switching tariffs affect my storage heater controls?
Usually, switching supplier/tariff shouldn’t change how your heaters work—as long as the new tariff supports your meter set-up. If a meter change is needed (e.g., Economy 10 to single-rate), your charging times and wiring/control arrangements may need checking.
What if I’m a tenant—can I change tariff?
If you pay the energy bills, you can usually choose your supplier. However, meter changes (for example switching from Economy 7 to single-rate or vice versa) may require landlord permission. If you’re unsure, check your tenancy agreement and speak to the landlord/agent.
What details should I check before I commit to a tariff?
Confirm: (1) tariff type (single vs multi-rate), (2) unit rates and standing charge, (3) exit fees and tariff end date (if fixed), (4) payment method pricing, and (5) whether the supplier supports your meter configuration.
Trust, methodology and sources
Page governance
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- April 2026
How we assess “best” for storage heaters
We don’t pick a single “best tariff for everyone”. Instead, we focus on identifying the best tariff type for storage heaters, then comparing available supplier tariffs for your circumstances.
- Compatibility first: we consider meter/tariff compatibility (single-rate vs multi-rate, and common constraints like Economy 10 and restricted meters).
- Total cost over headline rates: we look at standing charge, day/night rates and estimated annual cost (where rates and usage are provided).
- Suitability: we consider your likely off-peak share (storage heater charging plus other shiftable usage).
- Terms: we highlight key terms such as fixed duration and exit fees (where applicable).
Limitations: This guide uses examples and rules of thumb. Actual costs depend on your exact rates, standing charges, usage profile, and how your meter records off‑peak usage. Tariff availability can change quickly and differs by region and payment method.
Sources (UK)
- Ofgem (UK energy regulator) – guidance on energy market rules and consumer protections
- Citizens Advice: Energy – practical consumer advice on bills, switching and meter issues
- GOV.UK – general government guidance (including energy and consumer topics)
We link to regulator and advice bodies for impartial context. Supplier tariffs and eligibility criteria should always be verified at the point of switch.
Ready to find the best tariff for your storage heaters?
Compare tariffs available in your postcode, including Economy 7 and single-rate options, with key terms clearly shown. No misleading promises—just estimated costs based on the details you provide.
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