Electric radiators are heating devices that use electrical energy to produce heat. They work by converting electrical energy into thermal energy, which is then emitted into the surroundings to heat living, office, industrial, or other spaces.
Nowadays, you can choose from many different types of electric radiators, so selecting the right model tailored to your needs shouldn't cause anyone any problems.
In the following post, we present the types of electric radiators and provide advice on what to pay attention to in order to choose the right device that meets your expectations.
Discover popular types of electric radiators
The most popular electric radiators available on the market are:
- convector radiators: this is one of the simplest solutions, allowing for quick and effective room heating. This type of radiator works on the principle of convection, which is based on the natural circulation of air in the room caused by temperature differences. This mechanism relies on two physical phenomena: warmer air has a lower density than cooler air, so it rises upwards, while cooler, heavier air sinks downwards;
- oil-filled radiators: these are devices that contain a special oil inside, which transfers energy to the radiator walls upon heating. These radiators are relatively safe to use, they emit heat evenly, and they remain warm for some time after being turned off;
- ceramic radiators: they operate similarly to oil-filled radiators – the ceramic insert inside heats up and gradually releases heat to the outside;
- halogen heaters (emitters): they use the infrared radiation phenomenon. Their advantage is that they heat up quickly. They are suitable for small spaces.
The choice of radiator type largely depends on the room's size and how quickly you want it to heat up.
Differences and similarities in electric radiator operation
Before choosing a specific radiator, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the differences between them. This will help you buy the best electric radiator suited to your needs.
Read on to learn how the different types of radiators differ.
How different radiators work
Here's how the different types of radiators work:
- convection – the convector radiator heats the air flowing through the device. It may have a built-in fan that efficiently blows out warm air;
- heat radiation – oil-filled and ceramic radiators first heat themselves and then gradually emit heat to the surroundings;
- radiation – halogen heaters heat the filament, which emits heat in the form of infrared light, thus warming the surroundings.
Heating time of electric radiators
If you want to feel pleasant warmth immediately after turning on the radiator, the best choice would be any kind of radiator. A red-hot element emits heat instantly.
Similarly, a convector radiator works: the gravitational flow of air means that within literally a few moments of switching it on, you will feel warm air. This way, you can quickly heat a small room, such as a bathroom.
Ceramic and oil-filled radiators need a bit more time for their heating elements to reach the desired temperature - this takes from 30 to 60 minutes. Once heated, they emit pleasant warmth for quite a while.
A few words about the technical parameters of electric radiators
Different electric radiators differ not only in operation. Before purchasing, it's worth paying attention to the crucial technical parameters that impact the efficiency of the chosen device.
On the packaging of every electric radiator, you will find the following parameters:
- power: the higher the power of the device, the faster and more efficient the heating will be, but it also translates to much larger electricity consumption;
- built-in thermostat: allows for flexible temperature regulation, which in turn saves energy because the radiator works at full power only when it is really needed. The thermostat allows you to adjust the radiator's operation to the desired temperature;
- purpose: the type of radiator you choose depends largely on where it will be used, i.e., the size of the room. A small electric radiator performs well as an additional element wherever there is already standard heating;
- additional functions: some radiators have additional features, such as timers, remote controls for device remote operation, and even window opening detectors. These solutions certainly enhance the comfort of using radiators;
- size of the device: electric radiators are available in many sizes to choose from. However, when shopping, it is worth noting that a large electric radiator does not necessarily need more power;
- length of the power cable: contrary to appearances, this is a rather important feature, especially if you buy an electric radiator that will not be permanently attached to the wall or floor. The ability to move the device freely without disconnecting it from the outlet allows you to quickly heat the selected area of the room;
- radiator construction: it determines whether a given radiator can be conveniently moved to another room or will be permanently attached. For portable devices, check if they are equipped with a convenient handle, and for heavier models, wheels.
How to choose an energy-efficient electric radiator?
The main advantage of electric radiators is their efficiency and ease of use – just plug them in. The biggest drawback is the cost of electricity consumption.
The factor that mainly determines the amount of electricity consumed is, of course, the power of the device. However, there are additional aspects to remember.
- match the radiator's power to the size of the room and the actual heat demand. Before choosing a specific model, find out how to choose an electric radiator for a room, by calculating the heating power required;
- use the thermostat correctly – a radiator used to heat rooms does not need to run non-stop. Set the thermostat - choose the optimal temperature for yourself, and the device will turn on by itself when it falls;
- make sure that heat does not escape from the heated room – remember to close doors and windows while the device is running. During colder months, switch windows to winter mode;
- in the case of using electric radiators, good building insulation is particularly important. The better it is, the shorter the radiator must run, reducing the demand for electricity.
If you are thinking about purchasing an electric radiator that will maintain a constant temperature, it is worth considering choosing the right electricity tariff. This is especially useful for oil-filled or ceramic electric radiators.
The best electric radiators
Our online store Mexen also offers heating devices designed for specific rooms. You will find both bathroom radiators and room radiators.
Bathroom radiators
The widest category consists of bathroom radiators, which allow you to maintain optimal thermal comfort in the bathroom, and additionally, they can act as a towel dryer.
This type of radiator works by heating water or a special fluid inside the arms. Such devices heat up quite quickly and emit heat after being unplugged.
An undeniable advantage of the products available in Mexen is the wide selection of types and models of radiators in many colors. Thanks to this, you can choose a device that not only meets your heating expectations but also becomes a decoration for your bathroom.
Room radiators
In this category, you will find a classic electric radiator (panel radiator) intended for wall mounting. Electric radiators are made of aluminum, which heats up very quickly and transfers temperature to the surroundings.
Mexen offers models available in various sizes and power levels, allowing you to choose an electric radiator tailored to your individual needs. Models are available in white or black.
Which electric radiator to choose?
You have to make the ultimate decision on which electric radiator to choose yourself. It will depend on many factors, which we had the opportunity to mention above.
To fully utilize the potential of a given device, you need to match the power of the electric radiator to the size of the room.
When deciding on a specific radiator model, special attention should be paid to its power - higher electricity consumption means higher electricity bills.