There are many different kinds of electric heaters out there, and it can be hard to choose which one fits you and your needs best. All modern electric heaters are designed to be energy efficient, but whether or not they give you the optimum efficiency really depends on how they are used and which environment they are placed in. How, then, do you choose the most energy efficient heating device for your needs? Below is a quick rundown on how heaters work and where they are most efficiently used.
The radiant heater
A radiant heater works a little different from a traditional one – rather than heating up an element or a liquid, they radiate infrared waves. Objects that receive those infrared waves then heat up – and the more solid the object is, the better it retains heat. As a result, it is very common for people in a room to feel warm and cozy (and even that table you’re sitting at feels like it’s been heated up) whilst it has little effect on the air in the room. The radiant heater is ideal for a few people that sit in front of it in a small room.
The ceramic heater
A ceramic heater works with a ceramic heating element, and a fan that spreads the warmth around. The ceramic heating element warms up when electric power is applied, and as the element reaches a certain temperature, less power is used – the ceramic heater is therefore self-regulating. The fan ensures an even distribution around the area.
Ceramic heaters are ideal for moderately-sized rooms where the fan can properly do its work – spreading the warmth around. Rooms that are too small can quickly become too hot, and the fan tends to be inadequate for rooms that are too large as well.
The convection heater
The convection heater works by sucking in air from the room, warming it up, and blowing it back into the room. The air comes into contact with a heating element and heated liquid within the unit.
The convection heater is ideal for large rooms that are sealed off; because it heats up air, it is most efficient when the room is well-insulated.
Combination or panel heaters
Combination and panel heaters vary and work through a combination of heating methods. The most common combination is a cooperation of convection and radiation. These types of heaters are ideal for larger spaces.
Choosing an electric heater should always be done with the environment and the heater’s purpose in mind – for instance, choosing a heater for a large area and placing it in a small one will result in too much warmth and a waste of energy; choosing a heater for a small area and using it in a large space may mean the heater can’t produce enough warmth. If you’d like more professional guidance and assistance with selecting a heater, visit www.reconelectrical.co.uk.
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