Heating element stich or tan, which is better

Selecting the ideal heating element for your house is an important choice that will have a big effect on both your comfort level and your energy costs. The stich heating element and the tan heating element are two of the more well-liked options. It’s crucial to carefully consider your options because each has pros and cons of its own.

The efficiency and capacity of Stich heating elements to deliver a constant warmth throughout your home are well-known. To create a cozy living area, they function by moving hot water through a system of pipes buried beneath the floor and radiating heat upward. The reason this heating technique is so popular is that it disperses heat evenly, preventing drafts and cold spots.

Tan heating elements, on the other hand, provide an alternative method of heating a home. Tan heating elements use electrical resistance to produce heat rather than water circulation. Heating zones can be customized thanks to their individual controllable units, which are usually mounted in walls or ceilings. For homeowners who want to customize the heating in their homes to suit particular rooms and maximize energy efficiency, this adaptability may be appealing.

Stich and tan heating elements differ from one another in a few ways. The installation’s initial cost is one thing to take into account. Tan heating elements can frequently be more affordable to install than stich heating systems due to their simpler installation; this is especially true for existing homes where retrofitting may be required.

Consideration should also be given to longevity and upkeep. Tan heating elements rely on electrical components that may wear out or need to be serviced; in contrast, stich heating systems typically have fewer moving parts and may require less maintenance over time. Furthermore, the average lifespan of stich heating systems is longer, meaning they can reliably provide warmth for many years with little maintenance.

The decision between a stich and tan heating element ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, needs, and financial situation. You can make an informed choice that will guarantee comfort and efficiency in your home for years to come by carefully weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each option and speaking with heating experts.

Heating Element Stitch	Heating Element Tan
Provides even distribution of heat throughout the house.	Offers localized heating, focusing warmth in specific areas.
Requires professional installation due to complex wiring.	Simple installation process suitable for DIY enthusiasts.
May have higher upfront costs but can result in energy savings over time.	Generally more affordable upfront but may lead to higher energy bills in the long run.

Needle type heating elements

Needle heaters, also known as ribbon heaters, consist of a dielectric plate. It is attached with a chrome-nickel thread that loops on both sides. It has an insulating varnish covering and functions as a conductive heating element.

The housing of a convector that uses a needle element is primarily responsible for heat transfer. Such devices have a vulnerable point that can be described as practically unprotected against moisture heating thread. Water seeping through the layer of insulating varnish causes it to quickly deteriorate. Because of this, using needle heaters in bathrooms or other high-humidity areas is totally inappropriate. One appealing feature of the convector with a needle-type heating element is its affordability, as it is 1.5 times less expensive than a comparable piece of equipment.

Manufacturers and prices of their products

Pay attention to the table to learn what convector type heater to buy.

Pricing table for a few heater models.

Tubular type heating elements

A quartz tube with steel is integrated with a nichrome filament to create a tubular heater. Furthermore, the design incorporates an aluminum fin-attached magnesium backfill. The fins serve as a component for heat exchange.

The distribution and form of fin plates are typically unique to each company, but this has no bearing on how the fins work. Such an aluminum diffuser’s sophisticated design makes it possible to transfer heat from the TEN to the air masses intensely, increasing the efficiency of convection.

It is generally possible to install heaters with tubular-type heating elements in bathrooms because they are protected from moisture intrusion. Even so, mounting the device less than one meter from the water source is not advised.

Operating conditions of the heaters

1. The working surface of the heating device must not be covered with anything. Although the thermal sensor will disconnect the device from the network to avoid overheating, but because of the closed grate for the exit of hot air, the sensor will melt and eventually burn the heater.

Heater covered in fabric

1. Do not place the convector near open containers of water closer than 60 centimeters.
2. It is not recommended to wet clean the housing of the device during its operation.
3. At least twice during the heating season it is necessary to blow out the heating element from dust deposited on it. It can be realized with the help of a vacuum cleaner.

What is the best heating element for convector?? – TechnoExpert

You don’t need coolant (water or oil) to heat the space thanks to the heating element. The air in convector-type heating devices heats up directly from contact with the heater’s surfaces. Even when the working element’s temperature is low, a heating effect can be achieved thanks to the device schemes employed by the manufacturers.

Types of heating elements

The convection heater makes use of warm air’s natural upward motion. Its temperature cannot be raised without the heating element. Its large surface area in contact with the air is what makes it unique. There are various methods for achieving this, leading to the production of distinct versions of convector heaters.

There aren’t many different kinds of elements:

• needle-shaped;
• tubular (TEN);
• monolithic;
• ENGLU, or tape.

Every kind of heater has benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider the type of element that will be used in the device when selecting one for room heating.

Heating elements of needle type

A dielectric plate that has been heavily stitched with nichrome wire makes up the construction of this type of heater.

The needle heating element for the convector is also known as stitch or stitching due to manufacturing quirks. Numerous loops are formed by the metal thread on both sides of the base.

To protect it from the effects of oxygen, a unique heat-resistant varnish is applied, ensuring that it lasts a sufficient amount of time.

The stitch element’s overall heating surface area is sufficient to warm the air mass moving through it. Manufacturers typically install two needle elements.

The following are a few benefits of the needle heater:

• almost instantaneous achievement of the working condition: thin filaments are heated to a high temperature (more than +250°C) in a few seconds and immediately begin to heat the air passing through them;
• Stich elements are considered to be the most economical and inexpensive;
• The heater operates quietly.

Neoclima fan heaters, heat curtains, and domestic convectors all use needle elements.

This design element’s primary drawback is its susceptibility to moisture. Installing convectors with needle heaters in a room with high humidity (a bathroom, for example) is not advised.

Heating elements of the tubular type

Compared to the previous type, tubular heating elements for convectors (TENs) offer increased protection against external influences. They have a metal tube with loose dielectric material inside that encloses their nichrome filament.

Quartz sand is most frequently used as a backfill. The nickel-chromium alloy wire or spiral gradually glows and filler when heated to + 200 °C or slightly higher through the passage of an electric current.

Compared to a needle heater, the heating element requires more time to reach the operating temperature.

Manufacturers attach spiral or flat metal ribs to the tube with the heating coil—which also heat up a lot—in order to increase the heat-exchange surface of the tubular heater. Although each manufacturer creates a unique plan for its heat-exchanging fins, all of these designs have roughly the same air heating efficiency.

The total safety and dependability of a convection heater with TENS is its benefit.

The spiral inside the tube is dependable shielded from moisture and water droplets by dielectric plugs that seal the tube with the heating filament inside.

Because of the relatively low temperature at which nichrome filaments are heated, tubular heaters can now operate 1.5–2 times longer than they did previously.

Any room can have a convector installed with tubular finned heat exchangers. Convector heaters are typically produced in a splash-proof variant.

The IP24 marking found in the product’s technical documentation serves as proof of this. However, it is not advised to place even a splash-proof device closer than 60 to 100 cm from water sources, such as the bathtub’s edge, faucet, or shower.

Heating elements are most frequently used in the construction of Atlantic or Thermor convectors.

The high power consumption of devices with TENs is one of the drawbacks mentioned. Additionally, these convectors cost a little more than the preceding variety. Strong convectors have a tendency to crackle when cooling or operating because of the uneven expansion of the metal.

Monolithic heating elements

The nichrome coil in a monolithic heating element is situated within the thickness of an aluminum heat exchanger structure made of a single piece. Dielectric material fills the gap between the heater and the metal, transferring heat from the element to the finned heat exchanger.

Every component of the ribbed structure expands uniformly because it is monolithic. Monolithic heat exchanger convection heaters are characterized by their durability, quiet operation, and lack the crackling sound that comes with products that use heating elements.

The majority of these gadgets meet the IP24 standard for moisture protection. Although monolithic elements can be used in humid environments, their installation can only be done no closer than 60 centimeters to water.

The primary drawback of a convector with a monolithic heater (like those found in NOBO products) is their high cost. The device’s average cost is 1.5 times greater than what would be required to purchase a convector with a heating element.

Band type heating elements

Ribbon heaters (ENGL, ENGLU) have a thin, ribbon-like fiberglass appearance. Thin fiberglass cord is braided with nichrome filaments to form the strip’s longitudinal basis. The product is impregnated with an organosilicate composite material for improved insulation.

Such a heating system is useful for heating utilities (water pipes, sewers, etc.) and snow melting systems because of its thin thickness.

Because the belt’s surface can get as hot as +400 °C, domestic convectors do not use it.

The air or any surface that comes into direct contact with the ENGLU belt heats up; there is no heat exchanger component to the belt heater.

Band heaters that are produced have a specific length. They can’t be chopped or shortened. It is vital to select a heater with the right length (4.1 to 20 m) and specific power (50-300 W/m) when making this kind of decision. It is not possible to use most ENGLU tapes in a humid environment because they are not moisture-proof.

Selection criteria

You can select a heating element that is appropriate for a particular purpose or the room in which it will be used by considering the features of each type of heating element. Selecting robust and dependable TENS or monolithic heaters is preferable if heating speed is not a concern. They can operate for a longer period of time for a higher cost.

A monolithic system should be chosen for extended use and a modest but steady heating of the air. The device can save energy even when operating for extended periods thanks to the developed heat exchanger, which can be turned on at full power to reach the working temperature or quickly heated and then left to maintain the desired temperature at ½ power.

Convectors what type of convectors are better: the device of electric devices, selection rules and peculiarities of operation

Every year, electric heating systems become more and more popular. Furthermore, since not all apartments have gas service, this should not come as a surprise. Liquid fuel heating installations are not becoming more and more common.

Solar panels remain an option for solving the problem of establishing a comfortable microclimate in the house at a low cost, but they are still quite unusual. A large number of apartment owners are dissatisfied with the central heating system’s efficiency.

They are compelled by disruptions in the heat supply to search for a solution that will keep the home consistently warm.

Electric heaters are a popular choice for those looking to create a cozy home microclimate. However, selecting the best option is difficult due to the large number of electric traction heaters on the market today. Purchasing electric convectors for your apartment is advised by experts. These gadgets provide a lot of benefits.

• heating efficiency;
• safety;
• ease of use.

Everyone knows from their physics class in school that heat causes air to rush upwards and lose density. The gravity of cold air makes it easy to displace it.

This is the process by which cyclones form in our planet’s atmosphere. Warm air masses surge upward above specific regions of the surface, leaving gaps that are filled by streams from cold regions.

This process also takes place, albeit much more slowly, in enclosed spaces. We refer to it as convection. Convectors are made to handle it efficiently.

The design and principle of operation of such a heater

Convector equipment’s primary feature is a simple device. These devices are actually made up of two parts: the heating element and the body. There are holes to draw in cold air in the lower part of the electric convector design. There are openings in the top section where cold air can be released.

The heating element, which is housed in the device’s lower section, is one of its design features. It processes the cold air that enters the convector body.

Once heated, it shoots upwards. Outlet holes are situated in the electric convector at a small angle to the vertical. The air mass that has heated up follows a parabolic path.

It sinks to the bottom as it cools. The cycle is then carried out once more.

The electric convector’s primary benefit is that it evenly distributes the heated air throughout the room’s entire volume.

An additional benefit of this device is that it produces no noise while operating. Some models include fans as part of their hardware.

They enable a quicker process for heating the space, which is greatly appreciated. It is accurate to say that these electric convector models produce noise while they are in use.

The fact that the walls on its body do not get hotter than 60 degrees Celsius while the installation is operating is the reason for the demand for this equipment. Convectors are different from oil heaters because of this. The latter are thought to be traumatizing since burns may result from unintentional contact with the casing.

Attention to the heating element (heating element)

Three different kinds of heating elements are utilized in contemporary electric convector models:

• needle heating;
• tubular with aluminum fins;
• monolithic.

A thin, dielectric plate is what is known as the needle type. It has a heating thread made of nickel and chrome.

It creates loops around itself on both sides. It doesn’t take long for the heating and cooling to occur.

The primary reason for the realization of the convection process in needle heater-based devices is the casing design.

A lacquer coating covers the filament in a needle heater, but it offers little protection from moisture. It is therefore not advised to use electric convectors equipped with this heating element in highly humid rooms.

The primary benefit of these installations is their affordable cost. Their lifespan is limited, though. Convector equipment hardly ever uses needle heaters.

However, it is best to ignore such a device if you see it in a store.

A lot of people are familiar with tubular heating elements. It can be found in water heaters as well as electric convectors. It’s a steel tube with nichrome thread covering it.

Insulating material with a good heat-conducting capacity is packed inside the tube. Aluminum ribs adorn the tube.

When the appliance is running, they not only guarantee effective heat transfer but also enhance convection.

When compared to a needle element, the heating element heats more quickly. Furthermore, its operation is characterized by durability. Numerous unit models come with splash-proof housing. As a result, high humidity rooms can use convectors with TENs.

In restrooms, for instance. These components do, however, also have some drawbacks.

The most significant is that when an electric convector operates, sounds akin to crackling may emerge because the tubes and ribs have different values of thermal expansion.

Silent operation is the hallmark of devices with monolithic heating elements. This is because these kinds of convectors have a single heater piece. These units have ribs as part of their construction. There are not many heat losses while these devices are operating. They also work well for jobs involving space heating.

Experts advise against selecting any electric convector type other than one with a monolithic or TEN heating element.

Monolithic heating elements

Convectors with an IP 24 protection degree are equipped with monolithic heating elements. A nichrome filament loaded with dielectric material powers them. The entire "stuffing" is contained within a metal-ribbed, cast-aluminum housing.

The volume of each component of the monobloc expands and contracts as it heats and cools. This feature prevents microcrack development and friction. A high-quality monolithic convector is long-lasting, dependable, and noiseless. Both the heating of the fin structure and intermediate heat loss are decreased by the monolithic casing.

Which convector to choose

The answer will be unclear if we discuss which heater is better to select. Despite all the clear benefits, every variety has drawbacks of its own. The element with the longest incandescent time, for instance, is the tubular one. When it’s working, the expanding structure may make creaking and clicking noises. Conversely, the monolithic element’s exorbitant price turns off the majority of purchasers. Not everyone is willing to pay a premium for a high level of protection and low heat loss.

The features of the heated room should be taken into consideration when choosing which convector is more efficient.

1. If the room is not humid, and the speed of heating the air does not play a key role, it is best to fit a conventional heating element.
2. However, if it is necessary to constantly maintain comfortable conditions in the room, it will be more correct to give preference to a monolithic element. The efficient convection system will save you some energy costs.
3. You can also pay your attention to the models of the combined type, as an infrared heater with a convection function. This device combines heating by means of a TEN and an infrared element, which allows you to achieve rapid heating of the room with a small consumption of electrical energy.

Experts advise being mindful of more than just the heating element. Efficiency is also greatly enhanced by maximum operating power, spatial arrangement, mobility, and housing ergonomics. If you carefully examine the device’s technical specifications, you should have no trouble selecting the convector that is best for you.

We are expecting a large batch of Ballu air curtains with two types of heating elements: TENS and stich element. It is always clear to the buyer what a TEN is, but a stich element usually causes doubts. And in vain! Stich element is a modern needle-type heating element made of nichrome (an alloy of nickel and chromium). The Stich element has its own advantages compared to a TENS heater. It is fast heating and low inertness (fast heat output). The latter property excludes the presence of residual heat on the heating element of the heat curtain in case of an emergency shutdown. In addition, thanks to the use of a stich element, the curtain has less weight. Finally, there is a significant difference in price: heat curtains with a stich element are cheaper, and therefore are the leader in sales.

However, Ballu TEN curtains have long since established a solid reputation in the industry.

Previously, the customer had to give a detailed explanation of what Ballu was and how long the brand had been available. 2011 saw Ballu, a manufacturer of thermal equipment, recognized as a sales leader in Russia!

Ballu heat curtains come in multiple series. Every series has a broad scope.

Electric heat curtains: T series (TEN): 3 to 36,5 kW, S series (stich element): 3 to 9 kW.

Robust in terms of heating water heat curtains’ performance, ranging from 9 to 35 kW. Additionally, the Stella series design curtains are a different subject that we will cover in our upcoming blog post.

TENS heat curtains are larger, have a longer air flow, and a greater air capacity. Additionally, they are mounted on sizable doorways. Take a look at the rn curtains if you need to close a garage or warehouse door. Remember that the length and height of the doorway are two crucial factors to consider when choosing a heat curtain. Under 380 V of voltage, air curtains with a power of up to 9 kW are produced. There are two connection options available for 6 kW air curtains: 220 and 380 in.

Convector type heater: everything you need to know when choosing one

There are a plethora of options available today for heating your house. Your eyes will float with the variety of modifications and coolant types. Leading the way are models that combine economy with extensive coverage of the heated area. One of the market leaders in this category is the convector heater, which is covered in this article. This article will teach you which subspecies are worthy of your attention and how this type of heater is structured.

What is a convector type heater?

Convector heaters are primarily distinguished from other heater types by their low cost, broad range of heating element power, simplicity of use, and adaptability in installation.

Electric convector: what it is?

Cold air is converted to hot air by the heater’s configuration. The housing’s design elements and the positioning of the heating element (TEN) work together to achieve this. A grate on the bottom surface of the case allows cold air to enter the space. The airflow is then heated to 90 degrees by the heating element before leaving through the top grille. Physical characteristics indicate that hot air always has an upward tendency and that when it cools, it moves downward, which provides circulation for the electric heating radiator.

Principle of the heating element’s operation

The regulator and the key for changing the power selection positions are used to control the convector. A temperature sensor that is integrated into the body keeps the device from overheating.

Certain models come with extra settings, such as a sleep timer, a timer for turning on and off, climate control, and more.

Additional settings control panel

Be careful to check whether the heater control buttons are illuminated when purchasing the device. If the buttons are not illuminated, you won’t be able to locate them in the dark or tell if the device is operational from the outside.

Technical characteristics and types of electric convectors

Numerous characteristics, including power, installation style, device shape, housing material, and number of settings, set apart different types of heaters. A detailed description of each current characteristic can be found below.

• Power of the heater. To choose the right heating device, you need to calculate the exact square footage of the room in which you plan to install it. There is a standard formula for this calculation, which looks as follows: for every 10 m2 you need 1 kW of power, the height of the ceiling should not exceed 2.7 meters. If the ceiling is higher, then to every 10 centimeters you need to add 10 percent to the capacity. It should be taken into account that a cold basement under the floor or an uninsulated roof above the ceiling also influence the choice of the heating element power. The heating power range varies from 0.5 to 2 kW, with the heat output also depending on the type of heating element. The material of the housing also plays a part in the heat output values.
  Heaters of different capacities
• Types of installation. In order for the consumer to be able to choose a heater that will fit into the interior of the room as aesthetically as possible, manufacturers produce the following variations:

What convector to choose, what to pay attention to

Ascertain which type of heater—monolithic, stich, or tenon—is better for you by learning about its maintenance requirements, power requirements, and heat output from electrical components. The manufacturer of any given product always specifies the equipment’s power, level of moisture protection, and whether or not it has sensors, timers, switches, regulators, or other devices in the instructions for use. In addition, the device can be fitted with a remote control, child locking, tilt protection, humidifier, and ionizer.

Based on the application in relation to the primary or secondary heat source, the radiator’s power is determined. Thus, 0.5 kWh will suffice for continuous convector use in a small bedroom, 1.5 kWh will suffice for a 20 square meter living room, and at least 3 kWh will be needed for two rooms. The calculation is divided by about 1.7–2 for additional heating.

Types of heating elements

The most common heating appliance available on the market today is the electric convector (although there are also gas and water models). It has earned its reputation for dependability in addition to being very user-friendly. Both a living room and a public space can have comfortable conditions thanks to this equipment. The primary focus of the experts in design is the elimination of middlemen in the process of heat transfer.

One of three kinds of heating elements is utilized by the contemporary convector. It might be:

• needle, ribbon, stitch-type heater;
• Electric heater of the tubular type with ribs made of aluminum, abbreviated it is called TEN;
• monolithic type.

Every variety has unique qualities and drawbacks. The features of the room that needs to be heated should be taken into consideration when selecting one.

Heating elements of the needle type

Needle heaters, also known as ribbon heaters, consist of a dielectric plate. It is attached with a chrome-nickel thread that loops on both sides. It has an insulating varnish covering and functions as a conductive heating element.

The heater’s high temperature is one of the needle element’s distinguishing characteristics. This kind of equipment also has the least heat inertia, allowing for nearly instantaneous heating and cooling.

In convectors with needle elements, the housing is primarily responsible for heat transfer. One could describe the weak point of these devices as practically exposed to the moisture-heating filament. Water easily tarnishes the insulating varnish coating on it. Because of this, using needle heaters in bathrooms or other high-humidity areas is totally inappropriate. One appealing feature of the convector featuring a needle-type heating element is its affordability, as it is 1.5 times less expensive than a comparable device.

The choice between a stich and a tan when it comes to heating elements ultimately comes down to your own requirements and tastes. Stich elements are frequently chosen because of their capacity to disperse heat uniformly throughout a space, guaranteeing constant warmth. They are renowned for their dependability and durability. Tan elements, on the other hand, give you flexibility and customization so you can change the settings to suit your comfort level. If used properly, tan elements can be more energy-efficient than stitch elements, even though stitch elements might need less upkeep over time. The decision between stich and tan heating elements ultimately comes down to personal preference, financial constraints, and energy-efficiency objectives.

Types of electric heaters

Three different kinds of electric heating elements are used by manufacturing companies to produce modern electric convectors:

A prospective customer should become thoroughly acquainted with all of the aforementioned heater types prior to purchasing an electric convector, as each one has pros and cons of its own.

Stitch heaters

Needle heaters and ribbon heaters are other names for stitch heaters (engl. sew, quilt). It is a flat dielectric plate (tape) covered in an insulating lacquer and sewn with conductive thread. When an electric current is applied, thin chrome-nickel wire creates loop plates on both sides that heat up quickly and cool down quickly when the current is stopped. The glowing filament comes into contact with the air at the same moment, which may cause it to dry out.

As an aside! Stich heaters’ limited application scope is a result of their lack of protection against water splashing and dripping.

The primary benefit of needle heaters is their affordability. Convectors created using them, however, have a number of serious drawbacks, some of which are as follows:

• low thermal inertia;
• low coefficient of performance (COP);
• insufficient degree of electrical protection (not higher than IP21), therefore they cannot be used in rooms with high humidity;
• short lifespan due to the fragility of the heaters themselves;
• high level of fire hazard – getting dust on the glowing spiral causes sparking, which can lead to fire;
• increased requirements for transportation.

The majority of band heaters available on the domestic market are found in Chinese-made electric convectors (General, etc.).

Tubular heaters

A quartz, ceramic, or magnesium filler is housed inside a solid steel bulb that serves as a traditional tubular electric heater (TEN). The bulb also has an integrated nichrome thread that heats up when electricity is applied.

On top of the bulb body is also an aluminum diffuser (reflector) with numerous ribs, the placement, quantity, and arrangement of which can change. The latter greatly expand the heating element’s surface area in contact with the cold air, which raises the heating element’s heat output and promotes air convection. Because these heaters are completely sealed, the glowing coil never comes into contact with the air, keeping it from drying out. The longevity and unassuming nature of tubular heaters during use are their defining characteristics.

As an aside! Convectors built around tubular electric heaters typically have an IP24 electrical safety level, which protects against water splashing in all directions. As a result, they are suitable for heating the air in humid rooms.

TENS units have certain drawbacks despite their many benefits that set them apart from stitch heaters. The principal ones are:

• loose fitting of the reflector to the bulb, which leads to heat loss;
• different coefficients of thermal expansion of steel bulb and aluminum fins, contributing to their mechanical damage (cracking).

Numerous nations across the world are involved in the production of electric convectors equipped with tube heaters. The most well-known products are those made by Siemens in Germany, Ballu in China, Thermor in France, and other companies.

Monolithic heaters

The drawbacks of band and tube heaters are entirely absent from their monolithic counterparts. In these designs, nichrome filament and dielectric filler are combined into a single cast aluminum housing that also has fins.

Because every component in this design has the same coefficient of thermal expansion, microcracks in the cyclic temperature change are prevented from forming. Furthermore, monolithic heater-equipped convectors operate quietly and with great durability. Additionally, they are distinguished by very little heat loss.

The comparatively high cost of monolithic structures and products manufactured from them is a major drawback. A device from the Electrolux 1000 series is thought to be one of the best examples of this type of electric convector; it comes with a contemporary monolithic X-shaped X-DUOS heater that has a capacity of 1 kW.

Tubular heating elements

A quartz tube with steel is integrated with a nichrome filament to create a tubular heater. Furthermore, the design incorporates an aluminum fin-attached magnesium backfill. The fins serve as the heat exchanger’s component.

The distribution and form of fin plates are typically unique to each company, but this has no bearing on how the fins work. Such an aluminum diffuser’s sophisticated design enables intense heat transfer from the heater to the air masses, improving the effectiveness of convection.

These elements are more straightforward and dependable than needle elements, but their heat output is significantly lower.

Heaters that use tube-type heating elements can generally be installed in bathrooms because they are sealed against moisture intrusion. Even so, mounting the device less than one meter from the water source is not advised.

Monolithic heating elements

Convectors with an IP 24 protection degree are equipped with heating elements of the monolithic type. They have a dielectric material-filled nichrome filament. The entire "stuffing" is contained within a metal-ribbed, cast-aluminum housing.

Every component of the monoblock experiences volume expansion and contraction with heating and cooling. By using this feature, you can prevent friction and the formation of microcracks. A high-quality monolithic convector is long-lasting, dependable, and noiseless. Monolithic housing lowers the heating of the rib structure and minimizes intermediate heat loss.

Which convector to choose

Regarding which heater is the best option, there is no clear cut answer. Despite all the clear benefits, every variety has drawbacks of its own. The element with the longest glowing time, for instance, is tubular. It may make creaking and clicking noises when in operation due to the design’s expansion. Conversely, the monolithic element’s exorbitant price turns off the majority of purchasers. Not everyone is willing to pay a premium for a high level of protection and low heat loss.

Store consultants typically advise customers to purchase convectors with a monolithic element, or TEN.

The features of the heated room should be taken into consideration when choosing which convector is more efficient.

1. If the room is not humid, and the speed of heating the air does not play a key role, it is best to use a conventional heating element.
2. However, if it is necessary to constantly maintain comfortable conditions in the room, it will be more correct to give preference to a monolithic element. An efficient convection system will allow you to save a little on electricity.
3. It is also possible to pay attention to combined models, such as an infrared heater with convection function. This device combines heating by means of a heating element and an infrared element, which makes it possible to achieve rapid heating of the room with a small consumption of electrical energy.

Experts advise being mindful of more than just the heating element. Efficiency is also greatly influenced by the enclosure’s mobility, ergonomics, maximum operating power, and spatial arrangement. If you carefully examine the device’s technical specs, you should be able to select the convector that is best for you.

The convector consists of three main elements: the casing, the heating element and the control unit (thermostat or temperature regulator). The casing is flat (about 7 cm thick), metal, hollow inside. In the lower part of the casing there are openings for cold air inlet. On the front panel there is a grille for heated air outlet. The heating element is located at the bottom of the convector and is of three types: needle, tubular with stamped aluminum radiator and monolithic X-shaped. To maintain a comfortable temperature in the room and control the mode of operation, all convectors are equipped with a thermostat (thermostat). The thermostat measures the room temperature by means of an air temperature sensor located in the lower part of the convector and, depending on the sensor readings and the set temperature, switches the heating on or off.

The principle of convector operation is as follows: having measured the air temperature in the room with the help of a sensor, the convector control unit compares it with the temperature set on the thermostat. If the current temperature is lower than the set temperature, the convector switches on heating, consuming all the electricity it is designed for and generating the same amount of heat (convector efficiency is close to 100%). A 1000 W convector will consume 1 kWh of electricity per hour. After the temperature in the room has reached the set value, the control unit switches off the heating and the convector does not consume any electricity at all. This is the reason for the savings. In other words, the better your room is insulated, the less energy you will spend on heating it.

Convector design and principle of operation

The room’s natural air circulation, or convection, ensures the electric heater operates efficiently. As previously indicated, the device’s primary component is a convector heating element housed in a metal casing that is typically rectangular in shape.

An electric heating device works on the following principles. Through the holes in the lower portion of the casing, cold air enters the device. The air masses rise when heated and then exit the space through the holes in the convector’s front surface. The cycle is repeated as the air gradually cools.

Crucial! The room where the electric convector is installed is quickly and effectively heated by the constant movement of warm and cold air.

Potential buyers can find convectors with both open and closed electric heating elements on the domestic market.

1. Devices with open-type heaters are equipped with a mechanical temperature regulator and are characterized by low cost, easy operation and fast heating of the housing. However, the degree of their electrical protection does not exceed IP21.
2. Devices with closed-type heaters are more expensive, have a number of preset operating programs and additional options and are equipped with an electronic thermostat. They are characterized by low power consumption and increased degree of electrical protection (IP24).

Where to install the convector?

It is recommended to install electric convectors permanently under the window (like central heating radiators) to create a heat curtain. It is desirable that the convector should completely cover the window opening. The convector is hung on the wall at a height of 8-12 cm from the floor. From the upper edge of the convector to the window sill should be 12-15 cm. In bathrooms, showers, etc., it is recommended to install convectors with your own hands.д. The convector should be located in such a way that the controls are not accessible to a person taking a shower or bath. The socket into which the convector is connected must not be located above the heating device.

In the event that installing the convector beneath the window is not feasible, it can be suspended somewhere else. Convectors with legs or castors-wheels and a tilt sensor are features specific to their mobile installation design. Note that installing certain convector models on legs or castors is prohibited!

Installing a convector with your own hands

If you have purchased a wall-mounted radiator, you will have to do a little work to install it on the wall. You will need a punch, a hammer and a screwdriver (screwdriver). First of all, it is necessary to choose a place for the heater. After that it is necessary to make marks on the wall in accordance with the holes on the brackets of the device. Taking a perforator, drill the marked places with a 6 mm drill bit to a depth of about six centimeters. Insert plastic dowels into the obtained recesses so that their flats are flush with the wall. The last step is to screw the screws into the dowels, they should not be screwed in completely, leave 1.5 centimeters for grooves on the appliance bracket.

Crucial! For proper air circulation, the radiator’s bottom should be at least 10 centimeters from the floor.

What kind of heaters there are in convectors?

The kind of heater that is used in the convector is one of the elements that influences its cost. There are currently three varieties:

Needle (band, stitch element, etc.), etc.д.)

Cheapest heating elements used in convectors. Owners of convectors with such heating elements say that "convectors dry the air" or "burn out oxygen". Represents a thin dielectric plate (tape) on which a chrome-nickel thread is mounted in such a way that loops are formed on each side of the plate. This heating conductive thread is coated with a special insulating varnish. Due to the high temperature of the heating filament, dust and therefore oxygen is actually burned out on them. They are distinguished by a minimum price (convectors with a needle heater will cost one and a half times lower in relation to devices of the same power with another type of heating element) and thermal inertia – heats up and cools down almost instantly. Not recommended for long-term stand-alone home heating.

Tubular electric heaters (TEN) with aluminum fins

Tubular electric heaters (TENS) are nichrome filaments set in a steel tube with quartz, ceramic or magnesium backfill, on which aluminum fins are stamped for efficient heat dissipation. The type of aluminum ribbing is different for each manufacturer, but it does not change the essence of it. The developed finning of such aluminum diffuser provides intensive heat transfer from the heater to the air and increases convection. The temperature of these heaters is significantly lower than that of needle heaters, they are more durable and long-lasting. Over time, due to the different expansion coefficient of aluminum and steel tube, the adherence of the fins to the heating element deteriorates, reducing the heat output of the convector. Thermor EVIDENCE 2 convectors are equipped with this type of heating element.

Monolithic heating elements

The heating nichrome filament with dielectric filler in monolithic heating elements is housed in an X-shaped heating element made of a single piece with developed fins. When the monoblock is heated and cooled, every component expands and contracts uniformly, preventing microcracks and friction. They are incredibly robust and operate quietly. In comparison to TENS, the monolithic design minimized intermediate heat loss and further lowered the fin surface temperature. This heating element is now used by all top electric convector manufacturers. These kinds of heating elements are found in ENSTO BETA convectors.

Tubular heaters (TENS) with aluminum fins

Tubular electric heater (TEN) is a nichrome filament installed in a steel tube with quartz, ceramic or magnesium filler. Aluminum fins are fixed on the tube, which acts as an effective heat exchanger. As a rule, the configuration and arrangement of aluminum fin plates differs from manufacturer to manufacturer, but the meaning does not change. The developed finning of such an aluminum diffuser provides intensive heat transfer from the heater to the air and enhances convection. The temperature of such heaters is significantly lower than needle heaters, they are also unpretentious and durable. Basically, convectors with tubular heaters are made in splash-proof version (IP24) and are authorized for installation in wet rooms at a distance of at least 60 cm from "open water" (bathtub, pool edge, etc.).

These types of heaters are more costly than needle-heated convectors, but less expensive than monolithic ones. For instance, convectors Atlantic or Thermor have heaters installed.

It’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option before deciding whether to tan or install a heating element in your home. Each has benefits and drawbacks that can have a big impact on your comfort level and energy economy.

Even warmth can be maintained throughout your house with the fine control over temperature distribution that a stitch heating element provides. Better comfort and possibly lower energy costs can result from this, as you won’t be overheating certain areas to make up for cold spots. Furthermore, compared to tan systems, stitch heating elements are frequently simpler to install and maintain, which makes them a practical option for a lot of homeowners.

Tan heating elements, on the other hand, take a different approach and use the inherent qualities of tan to disperse heat. Tan elements may not provide as fine a control as stitch systems, but they may be less expensive initially and require less upkeep over time. Tan heating elements can also give off a warm, radiant glow that many homeowners find pleasing, which helps to create a comfortable atmosphere in the house.

The ideal option between a heating element stitch and tan ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, needs, and financial constraints. A stitch heating element might be the best option if accurate temperature control and simplicity of installation are important to you. But if you’re searching for a more affordable option that still provides your home with a warm, radiant glow, a tan heating element might be a better fit.

Video on the topic

An expert tells us which heater is good and which one should not be chosen.

Convectors! What heating elements are used, WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES, WHICH TO CHOOSE??

ELECTRIC CONVECTOR HEATERS AND THEIR DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EACH OTHER