The storage heater is now one of the most comfortable and economical heating solutions for a home. Thanks to its ability to store heat in a specific material (such as ceramic, stone, or fluid) and gradually release it, it provides a soft, even, and lasting warmth, even after the device is turned off. Compared to traditional radiators, it not only offers superior thermal comfort but also allows for significant energy savings. Whether you're looking for a primary heater for your living room or a supplementary device for the bedroom, the storage heater adapts to various uses and needs, while remaining silent and easy to maintain.
Types of Radiators
| Type of Radiator | Principle of Operation | Advantages | Disadvantages | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Convector | Heats the ambient air through a resistance; warm air rises by convection | Fast heating, light, easy to install, affordable price | Dry heat, less economical in the long term | Spot heating or small rooms |
| Radiant Panel | Heat through infrared radiation; heats objects and people | Soft and even heat, does not dry the air, aesthetic | Higher price, efficiency depends on insulation | Lasting comfort in well-insulated rooms |
| Dry Inertia | Solid core (ceramic, stone, cast iron) stores and gradually releases heat | Constant and uniform heat, silent, energy savings, healthy air | Slower initial heating, higher cost | Main or prolonged heating, living rooms, bedrooms |
| Fluid Inertia / Oil Bath | Heat transfer fluid (oil) stores heat and diffuses it by convection | Soft and even heat, silent, portable with wheels | Heavy weight, hot surface | Supplementary heating, bedrooms, offices |
| Classic Electric Heater | Electric resistance directly heats the air | Easy installation, instant heating | High consumption, less comfortable long-term heat | Occasional or temporary heating needs |
What is a Storage Heater?
A storage heater is a heating device that uses a thermal storage material (such as ceramic or fluid) to store heat and gradually release it. Unlike traditional heaters, it provides soft and constant heat, even after the heating is turned off.
Types of Storage Heaters
- Dry Inertia Heater: Uses a cast iron, ceramic, or stone core to store and diffuse heat progressively.
- Fluid Inertia Heater: Contains a heat transfer fluid that stores the heat before diffusing it.
These heaters are highly regarded for their energy efficiency and ability to maintain a constant heat.
Electric or Oil: Which is the Best Option?
Choosing between an oil-filled storage heater and an electric storage heater depends on your heating needs, room size, and lifestyle.
Oil-Filled Heater: What is it?
An oil-filled heater operates on fluid inertia, using oil heated by an electric resistance. This oil, as a heat transfer fluid, then distributes the heat throughout the room by convection through the steel walls.
Advantages:
- Soft and even heat: It provides constant warmth even after the unit is turned off, as the oil continues to release heat.
- Silent operation: It operates with almost no noise.
- Easy to move: Often equipped with wheels for easier handling.
Disadvantages:
- Weight: It can be heavy, making it difficult to move, especially between floors.
- Safety: The steel walls can become very hot, posing a burn risk, particularly for children.
Electric Heater: A Versatile Solution
Electric heaters, including convectors, radiant panels, and storage heaters, are highly popular and come in various models suited for different needs.
Advantages:
- Quick heating: Convectors and radiant panels heat rooms quickly.
- Lightweight and easy installation: These devices are easy to install and move.
- Long-term efficiency: Storage heaters (like the Bilbao 4 model) provide soft, lasting heat and are perfect for prolonged use.
- Smart technology: Many recent models offer remote control via mobile apps for optimal energy management.
Disadvantages:
- Dry heat: Convectors can dry out the air, which is not ideal for long-term comfort.
- High consumption: Models without thermostats or used continuously can lead to high electricity consumption.
The choice between an oil-filled heater and an electric storage heater depends on your specific needs. For daily use, a storage heater is often the best choice, combining thermal comfort and energy savings. On the other hand, an oil-filled heater can be a good option for quick and comfortable supplementary heating, though less economical in the long run. Room insulation and frequency of use are essential factors for making the best decision.
Electric Radiators or Panel Heaters (Radiant Panel)
Electric Radiator:
It heats the ambient air via a resistance that directly converts electricity into heat.
There are several types: convectors, storage heaters, or heat transfer fluid models.
- Principle: Fast heating, diffusion by convection.
- Consumption: Varies by model—storage heaters are the most economical since they retain heat for longer.
Radiant Panel:
It emits heat through infrared radiation, similar to the sun's rays, which heats objects and people directly rather than the air.
- Principle: Reactive and even heat without drying out the air.
- Consumption: More stable and efficient in well-insulated rooms, especially with a thermostat or a programming system.
Summary:
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Electric radiator heats quickly, ideal for occasional use.
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Radiant panel provides lasting comfort and gentle heat, more suited for extended use and energy savings.
Advantages of Storage Heaters
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Uniform Heating Experience
One major advantage of storage heaters is their ability to provide even heating throughout the room. Unlike convection heaters, which may leave cold spots, the storage heater ensures that every corner of your room remains at a comfortable temperature without significant fluctuations. -
Sustained Thermal Comfort
Thanks to its heat-storing core (cast iron, stone, or ceramic), the storage heater stores heat and gradually releases it, even after it is turned off. This helps maintain a stable and comfortable temperature while reducing the perceived variation in heat. -
Energy Savings
The storage heater consumes less electricity than a classic convector, as it continues to emit heat without constantly running. Its optimized operation reduces consumption while ensuring high performance. -
Healthier and More Comfortable Air
Unlike convection heaters, it does not stir up dust or dry out the air, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable environment, especially for those with sensitivities or allergies. -
Silent Operation
Storage heaters operate without a fan or moving mechanical parts, providing completely silent heating—ideal for bedrooms or workspaces. -
Minimal Maintenance
These devices require virtually no maintenance. Simply dusting them occasionally ensures long-term efficiency.
How to Choose the Right Storage Heater?
Choosing a storage heater is not just about aesthetics or brand; it's important to consider several factors to meet your specific needs and guarantee optimal efficiency. Here are key elements to consider when selecting your storage heater.
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Insulation of Your Home
The efficiency of a storage heater largely depends on your home's insulation. If your home is well-insulated, you won't need an overly powerful model. On the other hand, if your home is poorly insulated, you will need a more powerful heater to compensate for heat losses.
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Well-Insulated Home: If you have good insulation (double-glazed windows, insulated walls), a 1500W heater may suffice, even for medium-sized rooms.
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Poorly Insulated Home: If insulation is insufficient, especially in rooms with drafts or old windows, a more powerful storage heater like a 2000W model would be recommended.
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Age of the Building and Construction Type
The choice of storage heater also depends on the year of construction and the type of building.
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New Homes (constructed after 2012 – RT2012 or RE2020 standard): These homes benefit from excellent thermal insulation. A medium-power storage heater (1000W to 1500W) is typically sufficient to maintain comfortable heat while minimizing energy consumption.
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Older Homes or Pre-Renovation Buildings: Homes built before modern insulation standards typically have higher heat losses. In this case, a more powerful model (up to 2000W) or one with a dual heat core technology (ceramic + aluminum) is recommended to compensate for thermal losses.
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Your Energy Consumption Preferences
If energy consumption is a critical factor for you, it's better to opt for an energy-efficient electric storage heater. These models are designed to maximize thermal efficiency while minimizing electricity use.
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Low-Energy Consumption Heaters: These models use advanced technologies to maintain a comfortable temperature without wasting energy. Storage heaters with ceramic or cast iron cores are often more efficient as they store heat during operation and release it gradually, reducing temperature fluctuations.
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Room Size
The first consideration when choosing a storage heater is the room size you want to heat. Storage heaters are available in various powers, and each power level is suited for a specific room size.
| Room Size | Recommended Power | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Small Rooms (<10 m²) | 750W - 1000W | Suitable for small bedrooms or low heating needs. |
| Medium Rooms (10-20 m²) | 1500W | Recommended for living rooms or medium-sized bedrooms. |
| Large Rooms (>20 m²) | 2000W or more | Ideal for large rooms or poorly insulated spaces (spacious living rooms, large bedrooms). |
How to Calculate the Required Power of a Heater
Once you've determined the power of the heater, you can calculate its electricity consumption based on the usage time.
Consumption Formula:
Consumption (kWh) = Heater Power (W) × Usage Duration (h) / 1000
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Heater Power (W): The power of your heater in watts.
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Usage Duration (h): The number of hours you use the heater.
Example Calculation:
If you use a 2000W heater for 5 hours a day, the consumption would be:
Consumption (kWh) = 2000 × 5 / 1000 = 10 kWh
This means you will consume 10 kWh of electricity each day.
Calculating the Electricity Cost
Once you have the consumption in kWh, you can calculate the cost based on your electricity provider's rate.
Cost Formula:
Cost (euros) = Consumption (kWh) × Electricity Rate (€/kWh)
The electricity rate varies depending on the country and the provider, but let's assume an average rate of 0.15 €/kWh in France.
Example Calculation:
If you consume 10 kWh per day and the electricity rate is 0.15 €/kWh, the daily cost would be:
Cost = 10 kWh × 0.15 €/kWh = 1.50 €
This means it will cost 1.50 € per day to run the heater for 5 hours.
Monthly and Annual Estimation
You can multiply the daily cost by the number of days used in a month or year to estimate the costs over a longer period.
Monthly Example (30 days):
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Monthly Consumption: 10 kWh/day × 30 days = 300 kWh
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Monthly Cost: 300 kWh × 0.15 €/kWh = 45 €
Annual Example (365 days):
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Annual Consumption: 10 kWh/day × 365 days = 3650 kWh
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Annual Cost: 3650 kWh × 0.15 €/kWh = 547.50 €
| Criterion | Value |
|---|
| Required Power for 20 m² | 2000W |
| Daily Consumption (5 h) | 10 kWh |
| Daily Cost (at 0.15 €/kWh) | 1.50 € |
| Monthly Cost (30 days) | 45 € |
| Annual Cost (365 days) | 547.50 € |
Consider the Location and Type of Heater
The choice of the model also depends on where the heater will be installed. If you have specific requirements, such as installing it in the bathroom or in a very humid space, you will need to opt for a model resistant to moisture, often with an IP24 rating.
If you prefer a discreet device, you can choose a wall-mounted storage heater, which can be easily installed on the wall without taking up too much space. Portable models are also available if you need to rearrange the space flexibly.
Additional Features
Some storage heaters include additional options, such as custom heating programs or Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control the heater remotely via a mobile app.
Best Electric Heaters
Ciarra heaters stand out thanks to rigorous development and extensive testing, aimed at offering optimal and safe heating in all situations.
How We Test Ciarra Electric Heaters
At Ciarra, each electric heater undergoes a strict selection and testing process to ensure high performance, silent operation, safety, and energy efficiency. Our goal is simple: to provide optimal thermal comfort in all situations, with intuitive use and designs suited to modern living.
Testing Methodology
To evaluate our heaters, we place five different models in the same closed room and run them simultaneously for four consecutive hours. During this period, we measure and analyze several key criteria:
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Ambient temperature at 1 meter and 2 meters from the heater, continuously recorded using environmental data sensors.
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Noise level, measured in decibels at a constant distance, ensuring operation below 60 dB—equivalent to a normal conversation.
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Surface temperature, controlled using an infrared thermometer to ensure the heater's exterior stays pleasantly warm (below 40°C).
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Heat distribution, evaluating the thermal spread in the room and the temperature stability over time.
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Ease of use: we test the ergonomics of the controls, display clarity, ease of setting modes, and the effectiveness of programmable or connected functions (Wi-Fi, timer, etc.).
In parallel, our teams note the overall comfort impressions, heating speed, and handling safety (no overheating, absence of odor or unusual noise).
Essential Selection Criteria
Our engineers and professional testers evaluate each model based on precise criteria:
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Silent Operation: Only heaters that provide a stable and soft sound level are selected. Models producing clicking or irregular buzzing noises are discarded.
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Certified Safety: We only select models that have certifications such as NF, CE, ErP, and RoHS, ensuring compliance with European electrical safety standards. Each device features overheat and tip-over protection, as well as reinforced IP24 insulation suitable for bathrooms.
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Intuitive Controls: Whether digital or mechanical, the controls must be simple, responsive, and clearly labeled.
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Design and Finish: A heater intended to remain visible in your home must also be aesthetically pleasing. We favor sleek lines, durable materials, and neutral colors.
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Energy Efficiency: With their dual heat core and dry inertia technology, Ciarra storage heaters reduce electricity consumption by up to 30% compared to traditional models.
Results and Conclusion
Ciarra storage heaters stand out for their fast heating, thermal stability, and exemplary safety. During our tests, the models reached a comfortable temperature in under 10 minutes, while maintaining an average noise level below 55 dB. Their surface remained warm to the touch, and no signs of overheating were noted, even after four hours of continuous operation.
Thanks to optimized design and high-quality components, Ciarra storage heaters offer the perfect balance of performance, comfort, and energy savings, while ensuring safe and sustainable use.
Key Features of the Ciarra Electric Storage Heater with Ceramic Inertia and Wi-Fi
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2000W Dry Inertia Storage Heater
The 2000W dry inertia storage heater from Ciarra delivers soft and consistent heat, ideal for rooms up to 30 m². Its dry inertia technology stores heat in a ceramic core and gradually releases it, even after the device is turned off. -
Ceramic Heater
With its ceramic heating element, this radiator ensures fast temperature rise and uniform distribution throughout the room. Ceramic offers natural, non-drying heat, close to solar radiation, providing superior comfort compared to traditional convection heaters. Additionally, this material is highly durable and ensures exceptional longevity. -
Dual Heat Core Heater
The Ciarra heater combines two complementary heating technologies:-
A ceramic core that stores heat for prolonged radiation.
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An aluminum heating film ensuring immediate and uniform heat distribution.
This dual system allows for quick heating while maintaining a stable and pleasant temperature throughout the room.
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Silent Heater
The Ciarra storage heater operates without a fan, ensuring absolute silence during use. With a noise level under 55 dB, it is unobtrusive in both bedrooms and offices. No vibrations, no air blowing—only gentle, peaceful warmth, perfect for total comfort. -
Energy-Efficient Electric Heater – Up to 30% Energy Savings
This model is designed to offer excellent energy performance, providing up to 30% savings compared to oil-filled or conventional convector heaters. Several features contribute to this efficiency:-
Automatic window opening detection: The heater stops instantly to prevent heat loss.
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Weekly programming (24/7) and smart Wi-Fi control: Adapts heating to your schedule.
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Precise digital thermostat: Maintains the ideal temperature without overconsumption.
In France, where electricity is more affordable than heating with oil, this heater is an economical and eco-friendly solution, perfect for reducing your energy bills.
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Enhanced Safety – IP24, Overheat Protection, and Warm Surface
Safety is at the heart of the Ciarra heater's design. Certified NF, CE, ErP, Red, and RoHS, it complies with the strictest European standards. Equipped with overheat protection, a secure standby button, and IP24 insulation, it is fully suitable for bathrooms. Its insulating panel keeps the surface temperature safe, preventing any risk of burns, even for children.This ensures you enjoy safe, reliable, and risk-free heating every day.
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Easy Use and Remote Control via Wi-Fi
The Ciarra heater is designed for intuitive and modern use. Thanks to integrated Wi-Fi, you can control your device from your smartphone, wherever you are:-
Set the room temperature room by room.
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Program your heating schedule.
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| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Heating Technology | Dual ceramic core + aluminum film |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi via mobile app |
| Programming | Weekly 24/7, customizable scenarios |
| Modes | Comfort, Eco, Frost-free |
| Power | 1000W / 1500W / 2000W |
| Coverage Area | Up to 30 m² |
| Silent Operation | < 55 dB |
| Safety | IP24, overheat protection |
When Should You Replace Your Heater?
You should consider replacing your heater when it shows signs of aging or decreased performance. If the device heats less efficiently, consumes more energy, makes unusual noises, or has leaks, it is probably time to invest in a newer model.
Replacing a heater may also be necessary during renovation work, such as improving insulation or replacing windows. Indeed, better insulation reduces heating power requirements, allowing you to choose a more energy-efficient and better-suited model.
Finally, if your home is several decades old or if your heaters are over 10 to 15 years old, it might be a good idea to replace them with modern, programmable, or connected inertia heaters to improve thermal comfort and reduce energy consumption.
How to Perform De-sedimentation on an Inertia Heater?
Generally, an inertia heater does not require actual de-sedimentation like hot water systems, as it is an electric device. However, regular maintenance and dust cleaning are essential to maintain its performance.
Here are some tips to maintain it properly:
Why Clean?
Dust accumulated on the surface or in the ventilation grids can reduce air circulation, decrease heating efficiency, and increase energy consumption.
How to Proceed?
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Turn off the power and allow the unit to cool completely.
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Use a soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a brush to remove dust from the surface and between the fins.
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Do not use water or chemical products inside, especially for models with ceramic or cast iron cores, to avoid damaging the material.
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Clean the outer casing gently with a slightly damp cloth, then wipe it with a dry cloth.
Recommended Cleaning Frequency
Perform this cleaning twice a year: before the heating season begins and after use.
In summary, an inertia heater does not require de-sedimentation, but regular dusting ensures better efficiency, reduced consumption, and a longer lifespan.
Can You Purge a Heater While It’s Running?
No, you should never purge a heater while it’s running.
For hot water heaters: Purging involves opening the purge valve to expel the air trapped inside the radiator. If water is still circulating and the heating is on, this can cause burns, hot water splashes, or damage to the system. Always turn off the heating or wait for the system to cool before purging.
For electric inertia heaters: There is no purging to perform, as there is no water in the system. Maintenance consists only of cleaning dust and dirt from the casing and grilles to maintain efficiency and safety.
| Heater Type | Purge Required? | Main Maintenance | Risk if Done While Running |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hot Water Heater | Yes | Purging + Dusting | Burns, water splashes, damage |
| Electric Inertia Heater | No | Regular Dusting | No danger, but dust reduces efficiency |
Conclusion
In summary, choosing a modern, programmable, or connected inertia heater allows you to combine thermal comfort, energy savings, and safety. Whether replacing an old heater, improving your home’s energy efficiency, or simply enjoying soft and consistent warmth, these devices represent a reliable and sustainable solution. With minimal maintenance based on regular dusting and attention to the power suited for each room, the inertia heater ensures optimal heating while extending its lifespan and reducing electricity consumption.
FAQs
Are Inertia Heaters Suitable for Use in Bathrooms?
Yes, some inertia heater models are specially designed for use in humid environments like bathrooms. They often have IP24 certifications to ensure safety. Make sure to choose a model adapted with moisture protection and a warm surface to avoid the risk of burns.
Can an Inertia Heater Be Used in a Large Room?
Yes, an inertia heater can be used in large rooms, as long as you choose a model with sufficient power. For spaces over 20 m², a 2000W or higher heater is recommended for efficient heat distribution. You can also opt for a dual-core heater for more even heat.
Does an Inertia Heater Consume More Energy Than a Convector Heater?
No, an inertia heater is generally more energy-efficient than a convector heater. It stores heat in its material (ceramic, stone, or fluid) and gradually releases it, reducing energy consumption by avoiding continuous heating.
What Are the Criteria for Choosing the Power of an Inertia Heater?
The power of the heater should match the size of the room to be heated. Generally, for rooms under 10 m², a 750W to 1000W heater is sufficient. For medium-sized rooms (10 to 20 m²), a 1500W model is recommended. For large rooms (>20 m²), a 2000W or higher model is preferred.
What is the Impact of an Inertia Heater on Air Humidity?
Unlike convector heaters, which can dry out the air, inertia heaters do not affect the ambient humidity. This makes them an ideal solution for people sensitive to dry air, such as those suffering from asthma or allergies.
How Can I Reduce the Energy Consumption of an Inertia Heater?
To optimize energy consumption, it is recommended to use an inertia heater with a precise thermostat and program it to heat only during the periods you need. Additionally, models with Wi-Fi connectivity allow for remote control, making it easier to manage the temperature more effectively.
Is an Inertia Heater Suitable for People Sensitive to Noise?
Yes, inertia heaters are generally very quiet, as they do not have fans or moving parts. This makes them ideal for bedrooms, offices, or any other space where silence is important.