Do you live in an all-electric household? Or are you thinking about switching to an all-electric home? Our Green Doctor All-Electric Household Guidance is here to help. It outlines the key benefits, cost considerations, and energy-saving tips for households looking to reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills. Whether you’re just starting your journey or ready to make the leap, this guide offers practical advice to support your transition to a cleaner, more sustainable home.
Know your energy setup and how to save money
Electricity Tariffs Explained
Economy 7 Tariff:
- Charges cheaper rates for 7 hours at night (usually between 11pm–6am).
- More expensive rates during the day.
- Ideal if you use most electricity at night (e.g., storage heating, hot water tanks).
Economy 10 Tariff:
- Similar to Economy 7, but gives 10 cheaper-rate hours, split across night, afternoon, and evening.
- Less common and usually found in older homes with special meters.
- Not usually offered unless your meter is compatible with it.
Single Rate Tariff:
- You pay the same rate all day and night.
- Best if you use most of your electricity during the day.
- Unit rates on this tariff are often cheaper than Economy 7’s day rate.
Electricity Heating: What You Need to Know
Storage Heaters
- Charge up overnight using cheap electricity (Economy 7/10) and release heat slowly during the next day.
- Uses timers and input/output controls to get the most from them.
- Input controls how much heat is stored overnight.
- Output controls how quickly the heat is released during the day.
Immersion Water Heaters
- Heats your water using electricity, similar to using a kettle.
- Set the timer to run during the cheap night hours if you’re on Economy 7.
- Once heated, the hot water tank should keep the water warm for several hours, or even until the next day if it’s well insulated.
- Turn off when not needed to save money.
Electric Room Heaters (Panel/Radiant Heater)
- Uses electricity as needed, usually during the day.
- Can be very expensive if used often, especially on Economy 7.
- Use sparingly and only in rooms you’re using.
How to Read Your Bill and Make Smart Choices
Day vs. Night Usage
- Your bill will show two types of readings if you're on Economy 7: day units and night units.
- Check how many kWh (units) you use during each time.
- If your day usage is higher than night, you're likely paying too much.
TIP: If you don't use much power at night, you might save money by switching to a single rate tariff.
Example: Same Usage, Different Tariffs
| Tariff Type | Units Used | Unit Rate | Cost |
| Economy 7 | 8 kWh night | 12p per kWh | £0.96 |
| 16 kWh day | 35p per kWh | £5.60 | |
| Total | £6.56 | ||
| Single Rate | 24 kWh day | 25p per kWh | £6.00 |
In this example, using more electricity during the day means the single rate tariff is cheaper overall, even though Economy 7 has a lower night rate.
Speak to Your Energy Supplier
Call your supplier and ask about cheaper tariffs that better match when you use electricity.
Ask:
- “Am I on the best tariff for how I use electricity?”
- “Can I switch to a single rate or fixed tariff?”
- “What would my bills look like on a different tariff?”
TIP: You don't need to switch suppliers to switch tariffs, but it's okay to shop around too!