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How electric heating can help reduce maintenance costs for landlords

January 19, 2023

More landlords than ever are choosing to install electric heating in their rental property, and saving on maintenance costs is a huge reason why. According to Checkatrade, landlords are currently shelling out a minimum of £400 annually to maintain and insure their gas heating systems, and that’s not even factoring in those unforeseen repair costs. So, if you’re looking to guarantee total tenant satisfaction at a better price, read on as we explore the reasons to make the switch today.

How does electric heating save on maintenance costs?

No complex boiler systems

Electric heaters work independently, with no reliance on a centralised system or moving parts. This not only provides tenants better control over their heating schedules, but removes the worry of a malfunction affecting the entire property. With gas systems, a boiler hiccup could leave your tenant with no heating or hot water, scrambling for you to fix it within 24 hours. With electric, you’re guaranteed a far more reliable and hassle-free alternative. Any problems with one heater solely affects the warmth in that specific room, reducing inconvenience for tenants and simplifying the callout process. It’s not just the cost-effective option, it ensures peace of mind for both landlords and tenants alike.

Longer lifespans

It’s inevitable that any heater relying on forced air or water circulation experiences wear and tear over time. Thanks to the modular nature of electric heating, the risk of mechanical failures and the necessity for frequent repairs are significantly reduced. At Ecostrad, we stand behind the durability of our products, offering warranties of up to 15 years. By incorporating regular maintenance checks and promptly addressing faults when necessary, our electric heaters ensure many years of reliable performance without degradation.

Simple repair & replacement

Beyond their straightforward installation, electric heating shines in terms of repair and replacement simplicity. In the event there is a fault, addressing issues is not only faster but also more cost-effective, ensuring minimal impact on your budget. No need to dig up floorboards to reach the plumbing – it’s often as simple as the electrician checking the thermostat or power supply. With far less complex components at play, this streamlined process translates to minimal inconvenience for both you and your tenants.

Frost protection

Ensuring your tenant’s comfort during colder months is not just a preference; it’s a legal requirement. Living spaces are obligated to maintain temperatures of 21 °C when the outside reaches -1 °C. Plus, to prevent pipes from freezing, heating must be kept running even when a property is vacant. Electric heating provides a more straightforward solution for winter maintenance. For instance, oil filled radiators utilise a thermal fluid with anti-freeze properties, ensuring the heating element’s protection when temperatures drop. Alternatively, activating Frost Mode provides extra safeguarding during those extra cold spells. Since most Ecostrad heaters feature WiFi control, you can do this straight from your phone remotely – no manual handling required.

Safety costs: gas vs electric

As a landlord, safeguarding your property for tenants is paramount. For gas systems, regular maintenance is essential. The expenses associated with safety checks cover professional inspection fees, potential repairs, and necessary certifications. Landlords must prioritise these costs as they play a pivotal role in maintaining a secure living environment, reducing the risk of accidents, and fulfilling legal obligations:

 

 

 

 

Gas safety costs

Type

Recurrence

Average cost

Boiler servicing

Every 12 months

£80

Gas Safety Certificate

Every 10-12 months

£80

Boiler and central heating cover

Every 12 months

£240

  

Total cost per year: £400

A minimum of £400 a year per property is a significant cost when you compare it to electric heating, which doesn’t rely on a boiler system or produce carbon monoxide. While you should organise regular inspections with an electrician and take out relevant insurance where necessary, the yearly costs for safety checks are negligible when compared to gas:

 

Electric safety costs

Type

Recurrence

Average cost

Electrical Safety Test

Every 5 years

£230 for a flat and £300+ for a home

With electric heating, your main responsibility is organising an Electrical Safety Test. An electrician will not only check your heaters but every single electrical appliance, including the fuse box and power sockets. Clocking in at an average 4 hours per inspection, seasoned electricians may charge around £55 per hour or £400 a day. While the test is required every 5 years, you have the flexibility to opt for more frequent inspections if you or your tenant prefers. If you do, this cost is still negligible compared to the year-on-year requirements for gas. Considering a property running on gas still needs to comply with electrical safety regulations, it’s a small investment with broad implications.

Our recommended electric heaters for landlords

Easy to install, WiFi-compatible and compliant with Lot 20 efficiency standards, Ecostrad’s range of electric heating solutions are here to provide comfortable, cost-effective heating for your rental property:

iQ Ceramic smart electric radiator

  • Heat-retentive ceramic core
  • DIY-friendly plug & go installation
  • Integrated WiFi & voice control
  • Motion sensor technology
  • 10-year warranty

 

Learn more

Adesso iQ designer electric radiator

  • Energy-efficient thermal fluid
  • Hardwired installation; suitable for bathrooms
  • Intelligent WiFi element
  • 3 energy-saving heating modes
  • 10-year warranty

 

Learn more

Klasse iQ German electric radiator

  • Close-packed ceramic tablets
  • DIY-friendly plug & go installation
  • Integrated WiFi control
  • Enhanced manual display
  • 15-year warranty

 

Learn more

Opus iQ smart infrared panel

  • Long-lasting far infrared
  • DIY-friendly plug & go installation
  • Integrated WiFi control
  • Amazon Alexa & Google Home compatible
  • 10-year warranty

 

Learn more

Save on maintenance costs with Ecostrad

By making the switch, landlords can leave behind the headaches of high maintenance costs, ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and ultimate tenant satisfaction. Our WiFi-enabled heaters seamlessly pair with the Ecosystem app, streamlining energy usage and upping convenience across the board.

To shop our products at the best prices, find a wholesaler near you or set up a trade account with us or our partner site Electric Radiators Direct.