The input and output dials on a storage heater control how the heater stores heat and how it releases it.
Storage heaters work by charging up on electricity during off-peak hours, typically overnight when electricity is cheaper. They store this heat within ceramic bricks or blocks inside the unit. During the day, this stored heat is released to warm the room. The input and output dials are the primary controls for managing this process.
Understanding the Controls
Let's break down what each dial does, based on common storage heater operations and the provided reference.
The Input Dial
The input dial directly relates to how much heat the heater will store during the charging period.
- Function: According to the reference, the input dial controls how much heat your storage heater will store overnight.
- Setting: Setting a higher input level means the heater will draw more electricity overnight to store more heat. A lower setting means it will store less.
- Practical Tip (from reference): If it's not too cold, then it should be set on low, maybe number '4' on the dial. This helps save energy by not storing unnecessary heat.
The Output Dial
The output dial, also sometimes called the 'boost' or 'thermostat' control on certain models, governs how quickly and how much of the stored heat is released into the room during the day.
- Function: As stated in the reference, the output dial controls how much heat is given off during the day.
- Setting: Turning this dial up opens a vent or activates a fan to release more heat from the storage core. Turning it down reduces the heat output.
- Practical Tip (from reference): If you are out of the house you should keep this very low. This conserves the stored heat for when you are home and need it.
Summary Table
Here’s a quick look at the key difference between the two dials:
| Feature | Input Dial | Output Dial |
|---|---|---|
| Controls | Amount of heat stored overnight | Amount of stored heat released daily |
| Effect | Determines how much heat is available for the day | Determines how quickly heat is used from storage |
| Setting | Higher = more charge; Lower = less charge | Higher = faster heat release; Lower = slower heat release |
By adjusting these two dials, users can manage their energy consumption and comfort levels effectively. Setting the input based on anticipated coldness and the output based on occupancy allows for efficient use of the stored heat.
