We live in a tech-savvy age where hotshot electrical gadgets are the saviours of the day. For instance, let’s take electric heaters; these heating devices are becoming trendy by the minute.
Electric heaters no doubt contribute to the well being of our environment, but do you know how efficient they are?
Electric heaters can convert electrical energy into thermal energy. These heaters are almost 100% efficient when it comes to heater efficiency. They function at zero per cent efficiency when the indoor and outdoor temperature is at equilibrium.
Let’s read along to know more about the significance and types of electric heaters and their efficient benefits.
Contents
- 1 Key Takeaways
- 2 Importance of Electric Heaters
- 3 The Efficiency of Electric Heaters
- 4 Different Types of Electric Heaters: Explained
- 5 Electric Panel Heaters
- 6 Storage Heaters
- 7 Infrared Panels
- 8 Electric Radiators
- 9 Electric Fan Heaters
- 10 Convection Heaters
- 11 Halogen Heaters
- 12 Electric Boilers
- 13 Heat Pump Source: Reliable Heating and Cooling Solutions
- 14 Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Electric heaters are highly efficient, with almost 100% efficiency when converting electrical energy into thermal energy, making them a cost-effective and eco-friendly heating option.
- Electric heaters are safe and reliable, producing zero emissions and offering quick responses for heating needs, reducing energy loss compared to some traditional heating systems.
- Various types of electric heaters are available, including electric panel heaters, storage heaters, infrared panels, electric radiators, electric fan heaters, convection heaters, halogen heaters, and electric boilers, catering to different heating needs and preferences.
Importance of Electric Heaters
Electric heaters offer a versatile heating solution that can meet the needs of a wide range of households. Whether you’re looking to warm up a small space or efficiently heat a larger area, electric heaters provide an accessible and practical option. They are known for their user-friendly maintenance and environmentally friendly features, making them an excellent choice for those who value simplicity and sustainability. Electric heaters are a reliable and effective heating solution in a world where energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important. So, if you’re searching for a heating system that suits your lifestyle and contributes to a greener future, consider the benefits of electric heaters.
The Efficiency of Electric Heaters
If the indoor temperature is 25 °C and the outsize is freezing (0 °C), then an electric heater functions at 8.4% efficiency. In simple terms, all incoming electric energy is used in electric resistance heating, making the heaters 100% efficient in producing heat.
Electric heaters have many benefits since they do not rely on combustion. As a result, there are no emissions of carbon dioxide. Therefore, these heaters air natural resource conservation.
If you are looking for eco-friendly heating systems, you should consider these appliances’ benefits. Let’s glance at the various efficient factors of the electric heaters.
Efficient Safety and Reliability
Unlike gas heaters, there is no burning process involved in an electric heating system. That means zero fumes and no combustible gases. Therefore, electric heaters remove the scope for fire hazards, making them a safe heating solution.
These heating systems do not have any moving parts, so the possibility of a system breakdown is low.
Efficient Cost-Effectiveness
Although the energy cost may seem more than oil and gas, electric heaters take less time for heating. Also, if you use portable electric heaters, they will use only a fraction of the power. When you take all these factors into account, the higher efficiency of electric heaters makes them more cost-effective.
Efficient Zone Heating
You can program the appliance to heat specific zones in your house where you are now. This will reduce the energy cost by a lot as you no longer need a central heating system.
Efficient Zero Emissions
Electric heaters can be very eco-friendly since there is no fuel to burn. There is always the risk of carbon monoxide leaks when using gas boilers and oil heaters. You even have to spend a lot of time on their maintenance as well.
Electric heating systems ensure your safety and the safety of the environment as well.
Efficiency Not Dependant on Gas Supply
Many households in different regions have gas connections, but some still rely on alternative heating methods. The availability of natural gas may be a challenge in a few areas. If you’re thinking of your heating options, it’s important to understand that regardless of your current heating fuel, such as oil, it may need frequent replacements. Clean and efficient electric heating can be a viable alternative to consider for your home.
Efficient Quick Response
Can you imagine having to wait out in the cold until the heating system is ready! Not with electric heaters, you don’t. With these devices, you can always expect a quick response, making them useful in the time of need.
You do not have to wait for the water tank to heat up or check the oil supply constantly.
Less Energy Loss
The efficiency of the electric heater goes beyond faster heating and spreading. There is much heat loss through the air vents in gas central furnace systems. However, ductless electric heaters do not have this issue and send 100% heat to your space.
Different Types of Electric Heaters: Explained
One of the great perks of electric heaters is that they are available in various types, shapes, and sizes. You have the option to go for a small portable heater or choose a large convection heater. The various types also have different functionalities.
Electric Panel Heaters
Electric panel heaters are very low-cost heaters for domestic use. These appliances use the principle of convection to heat the surrounding area’s air. Therefore, the heating process is faster and highly responsive.
You can turn the electric panel heaters on and off quickly, making them a comfortable option for homes.
However, there is a chance of heat loss through the doors and windows. This can result in using more energy and making the heating less efficient.
Storage Heaters
Chances are, if you are on an Economy 7 or 10 tariff, you have a storage heater at home. They appear similar to electric radiators in function and help store heat. These can save you some cost as you can store the heat while being on the evening tariff and use it during the day.
There are two problems, though:
- Both the upfront and running cost of the appliance is extremely high.
- They will not benefit you if you work away from home during the day.
Infrared Panels
One of the recent innovations in electric heating systems is the infrared panel heaters. Instead of heating the surrounding air, these heaters provide a gentle, radiant warmth. The heat feels similar to the natural heat of the sun and your body that you feel throughout the day.
The heating device is very effective in providing 360ᵒ long-lasting warmth. The best part about these appliances is that they help reduce energy waste and come in a very portable design.
Electric Radiators
The electric radiators have similar functionality to central heating radiators. The device consists of dry heating elements or a thermal coil that heats up via electricity. Electric radiators offer both convection and radiation to give you a quick-responsive heat that feels warm.
The heat produced by electric radiators also lasts longer. The ceramic electric radiators can provide 50% radiant warmth and retain the heat within 45 minutes.
Electric Fan Heaters
Electric fan heaters could be the right solution if you have a small living space. You can keep the heaters on for a short time, and it will spread the heat nicely through the air. These portable, lightweight devices do not require a lot of space either.
The only problem is that electric fan heaters are not the best type of heating system, especial for large areas. So, if you have ample living space or high ceilings, you should not choose this.
Convection Heaters
Convection or convector electric heaters can only heat up small to medium living spaces. They can provide warmth for a few hours, but they are not the most efficient choices. Also, the size of the heaters is not suitable for small areas, as they are often quite large. They are also quite heavy, so moving them around will be difficult.
Halogen Heaters
Halogen electric heaters are ideal for outdoor heating, like heating a patio or backyard. You can also heat areas, like an old building that has poor insulation, with these. The heaters use short infrared heat waves and direct them towards the person or object you want to heat.
In ways, the heaters may appear similar to an electric radiator, but the heat comes from a halogen heater.
Electric Boilers
The function of an electric boiler is just like a gas boiler, except that it uses electricity. Unlike most electric heaters on this list, the boilers consist of a water storage unit. This heater type is used for heating water instead of the room air.
You do not need to place the electric boiler on an external wall, nor does there need a gas pipe for emissions. Also, the unit is quite compact and does not make too much noise while running.
Heat Pump Source: Reliable Heating and Cooling Solutions
At Heat Pump Source, we take pride in our unwavering commitment to serving the UK with top-tier HVAC solutions. From the efficiency of heat pumps and the cool relief of air conditioning to the warmth of boilers, radiators, and underfloor heating, our dedicated team is always at the forefront of innovation. We understand the unique needs of every household and business, and we strive to provide dependable health and cooling products and services that are tailored just for you. Ensuring your comfort and satisfaction is our utmost priority. Whether you have questions, need guidance, or require support, we’re always here to assist. Please don’t hesitate to contact us; we’re eager to be of service.
Conclusion
Switching from traditional heating patterns to electrical heaters is not only good for the environment but quite resourceful for your homes. These heating devices are more efficient in safety, cost and better suited than oil or gas heaters.
Plus, you get to choose from many types of sizes available in the market, so wait no more it is time to select these eco-friendly systems for your home.
About the Author
At Heat Pump Source, our articles are the product of a collaborative effort among a team of highly skilled HVAC experts. Our dedicated professionals, hailing from diverse backgrounds in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration, contribute their extensive knowledge and experience to every piece of content. This multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive coverage. Our commitment is to deliver authoritative, reliable, and tailored advice to meet the unique needs of every household and business across the UK.