Richard Brown of Electrorad UK explores the advantages of high heat retention storage heaters, and the compelling benefits they offer both landlords and tenants.
As UK winters become longer and energy prices continue to rise, providing reliable, cost-effective warmth is more important than ever, especially for landlords, housing providers, and property managers. More than ever, residents expect homes that are both comfortable and affordable to run. Heating systems that fall short of this standard can lead to constant recalls to properties, complaints or tenants choosing to leave, resulting in empty properties!
Upgrading from old storage heaters that offer no control and never enough heat to last the day, to modern electric heating, such as High Heat Retention (HHR) storage heaters, offers a practical, future-ready solution. Used on Economy 7 tariffs, they store heat during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper and release it gradually throughout the day, keeping spaces consistently warm whilst significantly reducing energy costs.
There are HHR storage heaters that use advanced insulation, precision thermostats and adaptive controls to deliver efficient, low-maintenance heating, ensuring comfort when needed and energy savings when not.
Tenant satisfaction
Heating costs are an ongoing concern, and high winter bills are a common cause of frustration. Offering affordable and efficient heating in your properties can significantly improve satisfaction and, with it, retention rates.
Tenants who feel warm and in control of their energy use are more likely to renew tenancy agreements, report fewer issues and take greater care of the property, which means: lower turnover and reduced voids, fewer complaints, fewer engineer call outs to inefficient heating systems and stronger relationships with your tenants and improved reputation.
In competitive markets, energy-efficient heating can also make properties more attractive to prospective tenants.
EPC compliance
Energy performance is a growing priority, especially with the UK Government tightening regulations around Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). Properties that fail to meet the EPC ratings risk being unrentable.
HHR storage heaters can contribute positively to EPC assessments by improving the heating system’s overall efficiency, reducing energy wastage and lowering running costs. When used alongside proper insulation and economy tariffs such as E7 they can help raise SAP ratings and ensure you remain compliant with current and future legislation.
Upgrade
Compared to gas systems, HHR electric heaters are simple to install and require minimal maintenance. There’s no need for annual servicing, and the risk of breakdowns is low. For property managers and landlords overseeing multiple units, this offers a hassle-free, long-term solution.
Combined with other affordable measures like draught-proofing, thermal curtains and loft insulation, HHR systems deliver even greater cost efficiency and comfort without large capital outlay and installation mess.
Investing in high heat retention storage heaters is a strategic move that delivers value across the board. From reduced energy bills and improved tenant retention to higher EPC scores and lower maintenance costs, the benefits are clear both in the short term and long term!
Richard Brown is managing director of Electrorad UK