The Government is developing new energy-efficiency regulations that would ban the sale of more than a third of current space heating systems, including certain types of underfloor heating, towel rails, gas fires, and electric storage heaters.
Proposed Restrictions on Heating Devices
Under the proposed rules, newly-sold heating devices will be required to feature integrated temperature and timing controls to restrict usage to highly efficient periods. If enacted, the restrictions will dictate that newly-installed heated towel rails can only operate for a maximum of six hours per day.
Background and Objectives
The regulations, which were drafted by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), aim to curb household energy use by setting strict minimum performance standards. According to officials, the rules would eliminate approximately 50% of underfloor heating and towel rail systems currently on the market, as well as between 17% and 27% of standard gas heaters.
A spokesperson for DESNZ emphasised that the regulations will apply exclusively to the sale of new appliances and will not require homeowners to remove or modify systems already installed in their homes. "Our reforms will save households money by improving the energy efficiency of underfloor heating, towel rails, and storage heaters," they told the Mirror.
Similar Measures and Criticism
The policy follows a similar environmental mandate targeting domestic appliances. Beginning January 19, 2027, the UK will implement a total ban on the sale of new air-vented, condenser, and gas-fired tumble dryers, effectively mandating that consumers buy highly efficient heat-pump models instead. Similar heating restrictions have already been introduced across the European Union (EU).
The proposals have drawn sharp criticism from political opponents, who argue the measures represent an overreach into the daily lives of citizens. "Ed Miliband wants to tell you how long your towel rail can be switched on," said Shadow Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho. "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."
No official timeline has been finalised for the implementation of the space heating restrictions, though parliamentary debate on the draft rules is expected to continue in the coming months.
