Radiant and convector heaters with electricity

Press, 13 April 1978, Page 11

Radiant and convector heaters with electricity

Heaters have been classified into two types — radiant and convector. Radiant heaters (radiators) are quick in response and are directional and depend on the shape and type of reflector. Convector heaters are slower to respond w'hen hrst switched on but work by the whole of the surrounding air which rises and circulates through or around the heating. Basically, both these methods take place in all heating and in various ways. For instance radiant heating need not be bright red but cai» be "black” or invisible. Radiators: The common t\pe are one or two bar heaters which have a wire wound element on a porcelain former. They can also be fitted with quartz elements which give infra red heating. They are quick and inexpensive. The polished reflector surface assists greatly in directing the heat beam so it is important to keep this surface clean and shining. Fan heaters: Another type of convection heater which has a fan to direct

the stream of hot air outv.ards in a horizontal direction. Its output can be varied and it can circu* late warm or cooi air depending on the time of the year.

Convection/radiation heate r s : These heaters have a multiway switch which enables the user to regulate the heat beam or air flow to his individual requirements. These heaters are available in several woodgrain finishes as well as a variety of colour combinations to blend in with room decor.

Convection heaters: These have an unseen heating element which operates at a moderate temperature heating the air (the rising hot air is called convection). It passes out of the upper part in a continuous stream. Convectors are available as long narrow units or taller ones but mainly for standing on the floor. Oil filled radiators: They warm the room by convened rising warm air maintaining a steady tem-

perature. They can be thermostatically controlled. Because the heater

itself never becomes really hot to touch, they are particularly safe where there are children, and are safe too, for airing and drying clothes.

Inset heaters, as their name implies are either fixed to, or set into a wall or tile surround. They make a focal point in the room. They are a radiant heater but can also have a convection element incorporated at the back to give a versatile combination of heat output.

Panel heaters: These are wall mounted and can be either permanently and unobstrusively wired, or plugged in to a nearby plug point. They maintain a slow warm air movement with no visible heat.

The body of the heater remains cool so they are completely safe for children. Available in a wide variety of lengths, styles and colours they can be thermostatically controlled. They can be installed singly or as a complete electric heating system throughout your home.

Imitation fire: Like the inset type, this heater makes a focal point and most effective when set against a hearth or suitable background. Most models can be switched on to look warm with no ac» tual heat, or ti give vari-

ous degrees of heat output. The flickering effect as of flames dancing in some models, gives the joy of a fire without all the mess. Fused quartz: This heater has an element which glows bright red with a reflector and gives out a short infra red wavelength which is ideal for wet skin so it is the best type for bathrooms, etc. They are also very popular for kitchens and large areas.

These heaters are either wall mounted or can- be suspended well above head height. They operate by heating the object on which the rays fall, not the air in the room. Because of this, they are used in draughty places such as halls and shop doorways. The heat is directional and easily felt; Not entirely suitable when in close proximity to the heads of people who are in the one position for any length of time. Black heat: An adaption of the infra red principle has been developed in the form of a black heat radiator that gives out longer wavelengths over quite a range. It has distinct advantages over the intense heat radiation for certain applications. It is ideal for high open areas in buildings and not greatly affected by draughts and openings. Canopies are provided so they can be incorporated in low level flush ceilings and their heat distribution makes them more suitable when near to people. •