Convector or radiator what is better

Picking between a convector and a radiator can be a big choice when it comes to effectively and efficiently heating your home. Each of the options has pros and cons that may affect your comfort level and energy consumption. To assist you in selecting the best heating system for your home, let’s examine the differences between these two models.

A radiator is a type of conventional heating system that radiates heat into a space using metal panels or columns. The radiator heats the metal as water or steam passes through it, warming the surrounding air. Heaters are renowned for their dependability and capacity to deliver steady warmth. They are adaptable to different heating configurations because they can run on a variety of energy sources, such as electricity or hot water from a boiler.

A convector, on the other hand, works by taking cool air from the floor and heating it using a heat exchanger. A convection current is then produced as the heated air rises and moves around the space once more. When compared to radiators, convectors are frequently smaller and heat a room more quickly. They offer flexibility in installation as they can be freestanding or wall-mounted.

The heating efficiency and response time of convectors and radiators are important factors to compare. Because they have a greater thermal mass than other heating systems, radiators hold heat longer even after the heating system has been turned off. As a result, changing the temperature of a room may take longer to respond. Convectors can react quickly to changes in thermostat settings because of their faster cycle of heating and cooling.

Aesthetic and spatial considerations should also be taken into account. Traditional radiators in particular are regarded as architectural features and are available in a variety of styles to match your interior decor. They may, however, restrict where furniture can be placed and require more wall space. Convectors provide more design flexibility because they are more understated and typically have slimmer designs that allow them to disappear into the background.

The design of your house, your personal taste in aesthetics, and your unique heating requirements should all be taken into account when choosing between a convector and a radiator. Considerations should be made for things like the local climate, the size of the rooms, and the system’s overall energy efficiency. You can select the heating solution that best fits your needs and guarantees maximum comfort throughout your home by weighing these factors.

Convector	Radiator
Heats up quickly	Slower to heat up
Distributes heat evenly	May create localized heating
Suitable for rapid temperature adjustments	More stable temperature control

Features of heating devices

A radiator, one of the earliest types of heating. The idea of energy radiation forms the basis of its operation. After the coolant (oil, water, or heating element) reaches a specific temperature, the radiator distributes the heat to the surrounding area. Panel radiators and sectional radiators are not the same thing. The first one corresponds to the typical variation, in which the number of connected sections determines the heat flow power. accessible in cast iron, steel, and aluminum.

A tube containing a thermocarrier is sandwiched between a set of metal plates to form the second type of radiator. An extensive radiation area is the primary benefit. These gadgets are almost always utilized for the primary heating system. The material used to make the products, their declared capacity, their operational features, their country of manufacture, and their design all affect how much heating radiators cost.

Convector heater – a panel, the principle of which is to circulate warm and cold air through the room. Inside the set there is a tube with a thermal carrier (heating element, water or gas burner), from which there are metal plates-guides. What is good heating with a convector? It takes in the cooled masses, heats them and through the upper baffles spreads them throughout the room. Convectors are used both for the main and additional option, are available in floor, wall and plinth type. Steel, copper and aluminum are used in production. Both types have their pros and cons, the choice depends on many factors. Let"s conduct a comparative review of heating batteries.

Differences between convectors and radiators

Let’s begin by examining the benefits and drawbacks. Benefits of radiators:

• Efficiency due to large surface area.
• Low cost.
• In contrast to heaters with an open TEN does not dry the air too actively, does not burn dust particles, so there is practically no extraneous odor during operation. This rule does not apply to radiators of unknown brands of low-quality materials.
• Mobility for floor models.
• Can be used for emergency drying of things.
• Modern types are equipped with timers and thermal heads that allow you to adjust the level of heating and radiation power at a given time of day.
• Reliability and durability.

The primary drawback of radiators is the possibility of burns to young people and elevated body temperature. The device itself takes a very long time to heat up—at least thirty minutes—during which electricity or coolant is wasted. Furthermore, the apparatus is heavy, unwieldy, and intolerant of rolling or toppling over. Additionally, versions made of steel and aluminum are prone to corrosion and hydrostroke. The device cannot be used in an area smaller than 4 m³.

Convectors have advantages that include:

• A good convector is fire- and injury-safe (especially electric models).
• Can be used as the main heating in a country house instead of a boiler.
• Efficiency of work: the speed of heating the room – about 15-30 minutes.
• The surface has a temperature of no more than +50 ° C, that is, it is impossible to get burned.
• Used in cases where traditional radiators can not be installed: with panoramic glazing, in close proximity to outlets and other cases.
• Almost all quality wall-mounted models are compact, equipped with thermostats, removable pairs of wheels to ensure the mobility of the convector and other accessories.

Among the drawbacks are:

• When working at full power, a draft is formed in the room.
• The air is heated, but not objects and walls, so in rooms with high ceilings they are ineffective: the warm masses accumulate under the ceiling, and below the coolness is felt.
• They are not recommended for use in places of residence of people with broncho-pulmonary diseases (asthma, allergies), as the thermal flow actively carries dust, microbes.
• Gas convectors require the installation of an appropriate system for forced venting of combustion products.

An intelligent energy-saving metre. Repayment in two months! Everyone needs to be aware of this in order to save money!

What distinguishes a convector from a radiator, then? Specify the requirements:

1. The economy. Electricity consumption for the two products with the same capacity heating elements is nearly equal. The radiator heats the room after heating itself, which is the only distinction. On the other hand, the convector operates instantly.

2. Comfort in operations. Oil radiators are large, heavy appliances. In contrast to water batteries, which only require communication with the thermocarrier, convectors are lighter, require less space, and require installation of an additional air duct system in addition to network connection.

3. Security. Here, electric convectors are the best. Though not hot, the surface is warm.

4. Life of service. Even those who oppose radiators acknowledge that, when designed well, they are the most dependable and long-lasting appliance. Cast iron water heating batteries have a 30-year lifespan when used properly and maintained on schedule; this is not true of other battery types.

5. The primary metric is efficiency. At this point, the radiator assumes the lead.

The fact that the surrounding surfaces and objects get heated by its radiation in addition to the air. They then return a portion of the heat to those, creating a closed cycle of sorts. When a convector is used, the surrounding walls and furniture stay cool, which reduces comfort and increases the thermal carrier’s power and consumption.

6. Convector and oil radiator costs. The best way to show this difference is with a pricing table of devices from reputable manufacturers.

Battery installation services are priced at 2,000 rubles per point, while convectors start at 5,000 rubles.

The specifications of the house determine which heating device is best. Use in-floor or plinth convectors if the apartment has panoramic glazing. In large areas with high ceilings, it is preferable to forgo using radiators.

Is it worth to change a convector for a radiator?? This question does not give rest to the inhabitants of private and apartment buildings. The specifics are that during the development of the housing project, engineers and architects lay down design parameters, such as heating capacity, the capacity of communications, the use of multi-level protection, temperature schedule and others. Violation of the conditions of functioning in one point leads to a failure of the system. Therefore, before changing the water radiator to a newfangled gas convector, you need to coordinate all changes with the management company, specify the input parameters of the heat carrier and the like, which will avoid critical situations and get the best result in winter time.

There are both positive and negative reviews for convectors and radiators, but many people point out that the second has a higher efficiency:

"An apartment with water convectors installed was purchased. When using old cast iron in the neighbor’s house, which was nearly a sauna, working at maximum power did not produce the desired outcome. Chinese cast iron radiators took their place. The effectiveness has multiplied tenfold."

Moscow; Alexander Khlebushkin.

"Centralized heating was far from ideal. Our decision was made to purchase wall-mounted electric convectors as an extra source of heating because we have small children living with us. The solution worked perfectly: we used the thermostat to set the power to 70% at night and 30% during the day, and the apartment’s temperature is so comfortable that you can go about wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt without worrying about getting sick."

Krasnodar, Ekaterina Sitnikova.

"I have a history of allergies and am an allergist." I selected a gas convector with a modular system of integration during the house’s construction in order to save money on the installation of complicated communications and the purchase of a boiler. It turned out that the units evenly distributed dust throughout the house; I could never possibly live in such conditions."

Olga Vinogradova, Voronezh.

Which heaters are better?

• Technical characteristics of radiators
• Oil radiators for heating
• Technical features of convectors
• How convectors are used
• What is better to choose?

The first thing that comes to mind when it comes to heating the house is what kind of device to use. Convectors and radiators are the two main categories into which all heating devices fall, based on their principle of operation.

Convectors and radiators are the two categories of heating devices based on their respective operating principles. You need to become familiar with the features of appliances in order to select the one that’s best for you.

Consequently, the best course of action when deciding whether to use a convector or a radiator for home heating is to carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each heating option before making a choice. The following instruments are needed to install such devices:

The fundamental idea behind how convector heaters work is that they use air flow to heat the space as it passes through the heater’s body. Because heat is radiated from the surface, radiators heat the space.

Technical characteristics of radiators

The radiator device’s diagram.

In terms of degree of prevalence, radiators are more widely used. These are typically commonplace batteries that everyone is familiar with. The way that such a heating device works is the same as how the Russian stove works: heat radiates from the radiator’s surface. A few benefits of cast iron radiators are their high resistance to corrosion and abrasion and their affordable price. With proper care, the radiator operation has an impressive service life of at least 50 years. The best places for such a heating device to be used are multi-story homes with natural ventilation.

However, it should be mentioned that when selecting a heating system, aluminum or bimetal devices work best as they seamlessly blend quality and style. Cast iron radiators are not advised.

Sectional, tubular, and panel heating devices are examples of this type of equipment. It is vital to take them into consideration in order to comprehend how they differ from one another.

The structure of a sectional radiator consists of interconnected heating elements. The quantity of these heating elements directly affects the heating device’s power, and the caliber of the connections directly affects its dependability. Various metals are used to create these devices. In this design, cast iron is typically utilized; however, steel and aluminum radiators are still frequently found for purchase.

Sectional diagram of a radiator.

The name "panel radiator" pretty much sums up what these heating devices are all about: a panel, made up of metal plates that are hermetically connected, is used as a heating element to heat the radiator’s body while also acting as a coolant reservoir.

Regarding the tubular radiator, it is a fantastic piece of design in addition to being a useful heating tool. The fact that a device of this kind has only two rigid fixation points—on the incoming and outgoing manifolds—makes this possible. Any weave pattern can be produced by placing pipes between these points in any random location. Even with all of its advantages, this kind of gadget is not very cost-effective.

Returning to the contents table

Oil radiators for heating

Oil radiators have the benefit of being mobile and having an integrated timer.

The primary benefit of oil radiators’ rising popularity is their great mobility—they are incredibly portable and silent when in use. Thermal sensors in some contemporary models offer additional protection against overheating, enabling you to regulate the room’s temperature. Additionally, it is possible to purchase an oil radiator with an integrated timer, which is incredibly practical as it clearly turns the device on at a specified time. Investing in such a heating device maximizes comfort: your home is already warm and inviting when you arrive because the equipment was turned on an hour earlier.

Nevertheless, there are certain drawbacks to this type of equipment: it requires a considerable amount of time to heat the room, which results in high energy expenses.

Returning to the contents table

Technical features of convectors

Convectors are heating panels that use the movement of warm and cold air to heat a space. The convector is made up of a pipe with coolant inside of it, and rib-plates that extend out of the pipe to warm the room. A heating device of this type is typically composed of steel and copper. There are two types of convectors: built-in, which is mounted along the wall or floor, and external, which is fixed on the wall.

Convector device scheme.

These gadgets are:

• electric, where the air is heated inside the convector body. Such devices work quietly, their installation is simple, efficiency is high, the price is acceptable;
• water convectors, where water is used as a heat carrier. Devices of this type perfectly transfer heat, but a large amount of water is consumed, they heat up quickly, the heat is radiated even at a low temperature of the coolant;
• gas, they work on liquefied or natural gas, they assume the presence of a chimney. Installation of such devices is easy and they are safe to use.

A great alternative for people who don’t want to rely on state heating systems is a heating convector.

Returning to the contents table

How convectors are used

Convector working principle scheme.

Convectors are essential in situations where installing conventional radiators is not feasible. They can be used for both primary and supplemental heating. Thus, the floor-mounted convector can be positioned in line with glass walls or sliding doors. Such a heating device’s low material cost and straightforward design guarantee its popularity. This device operates on the following principle: heated cold air between the plates rises, cools, and then falls back down before the cycle is repeated.

An electric convector is a type of heating device that is used in homes more and more. It is lightweight, has an attractive design, and fits perfectly in the interior because of these attributes. When comparing the rate of room heating between an oil radiator and an electric convector, the latter will require less electricity due to its superior performance.

Another undeniable benefit of electric convectors is their extended service life, which can reach ten or fifteen years, whereas an oil radiator can malfunction with the smallest crack. It is also important to note that the electric radiator heats up significantly less than the oil radiator, especially if there is a small child in the house.

Returning to the contents table

Which is a better choice?

Selecting a convector is preferable if you need to conserve space.

It is impossible to conclude with certainty which of these heating devices is superior after comparing them all because they each have pros and cons. Utilizing one in an apartment is preferable to using the other in a private home. Convectors are a better option if you’re short on space because they take up less room than radiators. Convectors also offer added safety because it’s impossible to burn oneself on them. Furthermore, it is possible to install these heating devices so that they are hidden—that is, integrated into the wall or floor—which creates a very attractive appearance.

However, convectors don’t always have enough power to heat the air in a room uniformly and to a high standard like radiators do. Because they are much simpler to dust, radiators are superior. They have a simpler shape, which explains this. Convectors don’t produce as much heat as radiators do. They are therefore more cost-effective to run. It also follows that they are orders of magnitude less expensive.

Convectors with radiators are becoming more and more popular as heating devices; one of the reasons for this is that new models of these devices are always being released, some of which are more perfect than the others.

The primary distinction between a convector and a radiator should be highlighted, as the former uses the principle of convection while the latter uses the principle of radiation.

Convectors and oil radiators: differences and advantages

Convectors or radiators are the options that many people must choose from when it comes to organizing heating in their homes. These gadgets are all capable of producing heat in an efficient manner. Prior to favoring one type of heater over another, it is advised to thoroughly research the characteristics of each, the theory behind heating the air within the space, and the operational safety and convenience.

Selecting a convector or radiator

To ensure a comfortable temperature in an apartment or a separate room of a large house, a convector or oil heater is intended to be used as an additional source of heat, primarily in the cool days of the warm season and in the off-season. In a small country house or dacha, a few heaters can replace an electric boiler; no new piping or heating equipment needs to be installed.

When it comes to choosing between a convector and a radiator for heating your home, the decision ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Radiators are traditional and effective at heating spaces by radiating warmth from their surfaces, which can be particularly comforting in colder climates. They tend to retain heat well even after the heating system has turned off. On the other hand, convectors work by circulating air over a heated surface, rapidly warming the air which then rises to heat the room. Convectors are often quicker to respond to changes in temperature settings, making them more energy-efficient in certain situations. Additionally, convectors are typically more compact and can be installed in spaces where traditional radiators might not fit. Ultimately, the choice between a convector and a radiator boils down to factors like the size of the space you"re heating, your heating preferences, and the efficiency you"re aiming for in your home heating system. Each has its own advantages and may be better suited for different scenarios.

Technical parameters of oil radiators

An oil radiator is a sealed mineral oil-filled tank with a heating element installed inside. A portion of the heat energy radiator is released by convection, and the ribbed structure of the metal body helps to create air flows in addition to increasing the surface area of the radiating heat. The two forms of heat transfer have a nearly equal ratio.

A thermostat is a feature of electric tube heaters that enables them to regulate their operating temperature. A 220 V household power outlet is used to connect the device.

Depending on the model, the unit’s power can vary from 1 kW to 2.5 kW. An oil radiator can provide sufficient warmth for a space up to 25 m^2. Larger rooms will require the installation of two or more units with an appropriate total power in order to raise the air temperature. Heat losses occur during the heating of the oil, preventing the radiator from operating at 100% efficiency.

Contemporary oil heater

When deciding which heater is best, you should consider how well-functioning each model is. It is worthwhile to compare models of devices with specific functions rather than abstract radiators or convectors. The oil heater has the following options:

• protective casing on the body, which prevents accidentally burned on the heated metal;
• built-in fan, accelerating the heating of the air in the room;
• tilt sensor – the device disconnects the power supply of the device in case of tilt or fall;
• timer, which allows you to set the time of switching the heater on and off.

There are wall-mounted, floor, and tabletop versions of oil-filled radiators. Floor models come with wheels to make moving the device around the house easier in addition to a handle for carrying.

Technical parameters of convectors

Electric and water convectors work differently. Since the first ones need to have pipes installed, it makes more sense to contrast them with water heating radiators. When debating the superiority of oil heaters versus convectors, consideration is given to electric convector models, which are powered by the 220 V power grid and connected to a standard outlet.

The electric convector, available in wall or floor versions, is composed of sheet metal; its device is more straightforward than that of a radiator. Natural circulation causes cold air to enter through the lower openings, travel past the heating plates, and then exit through the upper housing openings.

The convector operation principle

The principle of operation is the main distinction between an oil-filled radiator and a convector. The body radiates some heat, but convection—heating and intense air movement caused by convective fins—transfers the majority of heat energy.

How does the convector vary in terms of operation efficiency? Convector heaters have an efficiency that is nearly 100% because they directly heat metal, which produces heat.

The thermostat that comes with electric convectors controls how hot the room gets in relation to the air temperature. The unit heats the room more evenly if the convector’s upper slots are positioned with a downward slope. This is because the hot air flow is directed toward the floor and dispersed throughout the entire area.

Comparing a convector and a radiator

It makes sense to compare the devices’ operational costs and ease of use in order to determine which option is more cost-effective.

Because mineral oil takes a while to heat up and cool down, oil heaters with TEN are known for their high thermal inertia. The outcome:

• heating of the air in the room begins only after some time after the unit is connected to the power grid;
• the heating device continues to heat the air in the room for a long time after it is switched off;
• The unit consumes more electricity than a convector by 25-30%.

Convectors are energy-efficient and built to last for extended periods of time. Heaters that are filled with oil eventually start to leak because of tiny cracks in the housing.

What to choose?

It is vital to compare the two devices based on a number of factors in order to determine which is better for a given set of circumstances—an oil heater or a convector.

It is crucial to consider the device’s design variation because devices of the same type but different brands can have very different quality, usability, durability, and safety standards.

Compactness

Similar to radiators, convectors are modeled as wall- and floor-mounted devices. In addition, the convector’s size is typically marginally smaller. You should consider the product’s weight when selecting a portable convector or oil radiator for short-term use. Convectors weigh no more than 10 kg, whereas oil heaters are between 18 and 25 kg in weight.

Wall heater convector Kindly take note! Because the back of wall-mounted heaters heats the building structure rather than the air, they are less efficient.

Speed of heating the room

When comparing the heating speed of a conventional oil heater, the electric convector will come out on top because it reaches the heat dissipation working mode faster. On the other hand, a radiator with an integrated fan will take longer to warm up, but forced circulation will eventually warm the room’s total air volume. A convector solely uses natural air exchange and operates at a lower heating temperature.

Safety

The majority of convector models have position sensors that disconnect the unit in the event of a fall or tilt, as well as protection against voltage fluctuations and overheating.

Oil-filled radiators of the economy class might not be protected, so continuous observation is necessary to keep them operating. A tilt sensor is also included in more expensive models.

You cannot burn yourself on the working convector’s surface, which reaches a temperature of roughly 60 °C. An oil-filled radiator’s metal body can heat up to 85°C, and touching it can result in burns. Go for a model with a protective cover if you have kids in the house.

A contemporary convector heater’s design

In the event of an emergency, a convector failure could result in a short circuit. There is a chance that hot oil will leak from an oil radiator malfunction, which can also result in a short circuit.

A convector is the best choice in terms of safety.

Environmental friendliness

This criterion indicates that the devices are interchangeable and health-safe. In neither of the situations does the operation burn dust or oxygen in the room. When heated, a painted exterior coating doesn’t release any toxic gases.

Because of their relatively low convection efficiency, oil radiators without fans only differ in that they raise dust particles in the air to a lesser extent.

Heating large areas

When it comes to properly warming a large room, multiple heating devices are employed. Additionally, every oil radiator needs its own socket outlet.

Oil radiators, both types featuring fans

By combining convectors installed in one or more rooms into a single heating network with a rheostat, you can lower the amount of electrical energy you use.

Both varieties of heating appliances are odorless and operate quietly (with the exception of radiators that have fans). The mode of operation and the timing of the on and off switch are programmable in higher-end models.

In addition to not drying out the air, oil radiators also have the option of adding a humidifier.

Convection distributes heat unevenly; there can be a temperature differential of up to 10 °C between the air beneath the flow and the floor when selecting a convector. Furthermore, these kinds of devices are inappropriate for use in dusty environments.

Cost and durability

When weighing the benefits and drawbacks of heaters, it’s important to compare product costs and service lives.

Oil heaters come in various sizes.

Convectors are made to last 20 to 25 years. These are dependable, fixable gadgets. Oil radiators begin to leak after several years of use (up to ten years) as a result of microcrack formation. These heaters need to be replaced with new ones because they cannot be fixed.

The brand and features of a specific model determine the price of both radiators and convectors. When comparing units of different types, oil heaters are generally less expensive while maintaining the same power and functionality. Well-known brand products are typically expensive, while less expensive alternatives typically have a shorter lifespan.

When deciding between a convector and a radiator for home heating, there are a number of factors to take into account that affect both efficiency and comfort. Each of the options offers advantages and disadvantages based on individual needs and preferences.

Convector heaters are renowned for their rapid and effective heating powers. They function by drawing in cool air from the floor, heating it with a hot water heater or an electric element, and then expelling the heated air through the top. Convectors heat a room quickly, which makes them perfect for emergency room warming. Additionally, they typically respond to temperature changes more quickly, giving you more immediate control over the room’s temperature.

Conversely, radiators work by heating the oil or water inside of them, which causes the heat to radiate into the space. Compared to convectors, they heat up more slowly, but they can hold onto heat longer—even after the heating system has been turned off. Because they can maintain a comfortable temperature over an extended period of time and provide a steady, consistent heat output, radiators are frequently preferred.

A convector or a radiator should be chosen based on the particular requirements of your living area. For example, a convector might be a better option if you need quick heat bursts or have rooms that require frequent temperature adjustments. On the other hand, radiators can be a better choice if you want a more consistent and even distribution of heat, particularly in larger spaces.

The overall aesthetic and space considerations should also be taken into account. Convectors are less intrusive and appropriate for spaces with limited wall space because they are usually smaller and can be installed closer to the floor. Because of their classic styles, radiators can occasionally blend in more smoothly with the rest of the interior decor while also serving as a decorative element in a space.

In conclusion, your unique heating requirements, tastes, and the design of your living area will all play a major role in determining whether a convector or a radiator is better for your house. Both heating systems can successfully keep your house warm and cozy during the winter months, and each has certain benefits of its own. By carefully weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each, you can decide which option best fits your needs for heating and lifestyle.

Video on the topic

How to Choose an Electric Heater? [Comparing Which Convector is Better and More Economical] Heat Stone

Convector or oil heater ?