Understanding Electric Radiators
A cold home is a dull home; therefore, it calls for a heating system to provide warmth. People in the past used fireplaces but with the introduction of technology, there is the invention of different heating systems for modern homes. They have an automated and programmable system that helps in managing energy usage cutting on the heating bills. Electric radiators are plugged directly on the wall or wired directly into the socket by a professional electrician.
Electric radiators are devices that provide home heating using standalone units. They contain dry elements or thermal fluids which heat emitting warmth to the surrounding air. The heat emission is through convection and radiation that differs on the amount of wattage it uses. Adequate heating is a requirement for larger rooms that use higher wattage radiators.
How an Electric Radiator Functions
Electric radiators are conventional and are easy to install in small and narrow rooms. Production of heat varies because some radiators use liquid coolants such as mineral oils while others use electricity. The heating element heats up in the presence of an electric current; which heats the radiators` oil. Prevention of oil leakage makes it safe for use because the electric appliances are tightened hermetically. The radiator cannot overheat with its protection enhances in the inbuilt safety system. A thermostat installed within the radiator helps in generating the amount of heat generated by the electric radiator. In case the radiator is purchased without a thermostat, it is easier to integrate it to the central heating system in the house connecting it to a heat pump or boiler. Therefore, the system is easy to run from the main remote control post.
Electric radiators replacement or installation allows you to create custom programming temperatures and schedules for your room. Most people are unable to tell the difference between electric panel heaters and electric radiators. Electric radiators store heat and are ideal for use in rooms that are always in use. They contain glycol that is ready to use with a low freezing point and inhibitors preventing metal from rusting. The glycol also helps in retaining heat and eliminates the kettle-type noise inside the radiator. Glycol is into two categories ethylene glycol and propylene glycol; ethylene glycol is toxic while propylene glycol is non -toxic and safe for human use. Food Drug Administration (FDA) recommends its use as a food additive.
Types of electric radiators
Electric radiators occur in four distinct categories depending on heat distribution and various technical characteristics. They include convection radiators, fan heaters, infrared radiators, oil-based electric radiators, and fan heaters. The information below will help you learn more about these radiators and make an ideal selection that suits your household.
Fan Heaters – A fan heater is an electric device consisting of two main parts: the heater and the fan. The fan helps in ensuring a constant flow of air through the heating element. The heat then spreads across the entire room in which the inbuilt thermostat switches the fan off. In prolonged use, a fan rotation speed controlling feature protects the unit from overheating. However, the electric fan heater causes rapid heating in the air and maintains a constant temperature. It is suited to relatively large spaces that make it ineffective.
Convection Radiators -Convection radiators function by allowing cold air to fall on the bottom, penetrating the radiator’s lower grid. The air passes through the heating element where it is heated to make it light rising on the top. It includes a repetitive cycle that makes the airs` upper layers cool down. Later, it becomes heavier and eventually falling to the bottom. The continuous warm air movement provides a cozy environment and a comfortable room temperature. A metal casing in the convector itself contains in-built heating elements which are controlled by a specially designed timer or thermostat. It is an effective heating system because it is not susceptible to moisture, does not dry the air, does not burn oxygen, and is easy and safe to assemble.
Infrared Radiators – It does not heat the air in the room and makes it popular with most homeowners. Heating is through electromagnetic waves of a specific frequency which keeps the radiator cold. In case of a rollover, the device is turned off by the safety sensors installed in the infrared radiator.
Oil–Based Electric Radiators – Mineral oil fills up the inner space of the radiator. The heating of the oil takes place in the heating element as it passes the heat to the surrounding areas through the electric radiator’s cover. The encased heating elements inside the radiator prevent small dust particles and oxygen from burning. Oil-based electric radiator operates without making noise, has fire-safety features, and increased mobility. However, its outer cover heats up and cause uneven distribution of heat throughout the unfavorable room.
