Heating our homes by electric is becoming increasingly popular and there are numerous reasons why so many of us are making the switch. To help persuade you why electric heating is good for you and the environment, here’s the lowdown…
How does electric heating work?
Electric heating works by converting electrical energy into heat energy. Think of it working like the element in a hob or kettle. The big difference between conventional gas or oil central heating is that the radiators are standalone and don’t rely on pipes to convey the heat.
Heaters can be oil filled or dry core and it is via electricity being passed through the heating element that makes them warm up. When the element is heated up the heat energy transfers to the core and this will be conducted by the heater’s outer casing and sent out to warm the home.
What are the benefits of electric heating?
One of the main concerns when it comes to traditional gas and oil fuelled heating is the carbon footprint. We are in the middle of a climate emergency with global warming high on the political agenda. The UK Government is pledging to take strict, immediate actions to reduce our emissions by 2050, which means turning to more efficient ways to heat our homes.
Gas heating is seen as a major culprit when it comes to increased carbon emissions globally which is why the Government is banning the installation of gas-boilers and heaters in all new homes by 2025.
So, by using electric heating that will be powered by renewable energy sources we can help to save the planet.
But that’s not all. Electric heating has immediate benefits for the household.
These include:
- Limiting the risk of carbon monoxide leaks and possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
- More efficient and safer heating.
- Smart WiFi controls which allow you to control your heating from a smartphone or tablet – meaning you’ll be able to change the temperature and setting whenever and wherever you are.
- Installation is less hassle
- Greater control over the temperature of each unit
- More reliable. For example, if your boiler breaks down, you will still be able to heat your home.
How much does it cost to switch to electric heating?
Electric heat is often more expensive than heat produced in homes or businesses that use combustion appliances but there are ways of bringing the costs down. These include:
Insulating your home
Heat loss in the home will rack up bills, so insulating lofts and roofs will save on costs.
Controlling the heating
Keeping your thermostat by as little as 1°C over a three-day period can help to reduce bills.
Ensuring you have the right radiators
Your heating professional should be able to advise you on the right size for the room. Too small and it will be pumping out heat to little effect, a larger radiator will on the whole work out costing less.
Carrying out a power flush
Regular maintenance will ensure your radiators are always working at their maximum efficiency.
Need advice? We would be delighted to help. Just head to our central heating services page or contact us today for more information.
