The Government is considering new energy-efficiency rules that could see some heated towel rails, underfloor heating systems, gas fires and electric storage heaters removed from sale in the UK.
According to reports, more than a third of current “space heating” products on the market would fail to meet the proposed standards and could no longer be sold if the changes go ahead.
The plans are part of wider efforts to improve household energy efficiency and reduce energy use, with ministers arguing the measures could help households save money on their bills.
What products could be affected?
The proposed rules would require certain heating products to include features such as:
- Programmable timers
- Automatic heating controls
- Temperature regulation settings
- Energy-saving modes
Around half of existing underfloor heating and heated towel rail systems currently on sale could be affected, as well as 17% – 27% of gas-fired heaters.
Under the proposals, heated towel rails would only be allowed to operate for a limited period each day, unless fitted with the appropriate controls.
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Electric storage heaters and gas fires would also need to meet stricter efficiency requirements.
Will existing heating systems be banned?
No. The Government has said the proposals would apply only to new products being sold, not to heating systems already installed in people’s homes.
If you already have underfloor heating, a heated towel rail, a gas fire or storage heaters, you would still be able to use them.
The changes would affect manufacturers and retailers selling new products in the future.
Similar changes are already happening
The proposals follow recent changes affecting tumble dryers.
From 19 January 2027, new air-vented, condenser and gas-fired tumble dryers will effectively disappear from sale in Great Britain under new minimum energy-performance standards introduced by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Only highly efficient heat pump tumble dryers are expected to meet the new requirements.
Political row over heating controls
The plans have already sparked political debate.
Shadow Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho told The Telegraph: “Ed Miliband wants to tell you how long your towel rail can be switched on. He’s already decided how you are allowed to dry your pyjamas and now he wants to make it harder to have underfloor heating in your home.”
A spokesperson for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero defended the proposals, saying: “Our reforms will save households money by improving the energy efficiency of underfloor heating, towel rails and storage heaters.”
What does this mean for homeowners?
At this stage, the proposals would have little immediate impact on most households.
If you’re planning a renovation, bathroom update or heating upgrade in the next few years, it’s worth keeping an eye on any changes to energy-efficiency regulations, as these could influence which products are available to buy.
For now, homeowners do not need to replace existing systems, and there are no plans to ban heating products that are already installed and in use.
Cara is Commissioning Editor at Country Living, covering everything from style and interiors to sustainability, artisans and the great outdoors. She has previously worked for Good Housekeeping, Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Prima and Red, and has an MA in Magazine Journalism from City University and a BA in Music from the University of Oxford. Follow Cara on Instagram @caralaskaris or Linkedin.
