What is better electric boiler or convector – selection criteria

Your comfort and energy costs can be greatly impacted by your choice between an electric boiler and a convector for home heating. Each option has advantages and disadvantages, so knowing the selection criteria will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs. The most important things to think about when choosing between an electric boiler and a convector will be discussed in this article.

Let’s first go over the specifics of each of these heating systems. In order to heat your house, an electric boiler works by heating water, which is then pumped through radiators or underfloor heating systems. In contrast, a convector generates warmth by forcing air over a heating element, which causes the air to rise and circulate throughout the space. Although the power source for both systems is electricity, the ways in which they distribute heat are different.

The heating efficiency of an electric boiler and a convector is an important consideration. Electric boilers are perfect for larger spaces or properties with multiple rooms because of their reputation for delivering consistent and even heat throughout the house. Convectors, on the other hand, are better suited for smaller spaces or rooms that need intermittent heating since they heat up faster and respond to temperature changes more quickly.

An important factor in the decision-making process is cost considerations. Electric boilers tend to be more energy-efficient in the long run than convectors, which could eventually result in lower utility bills, even though they may cost more to install initially. Convectors, on the other hand, are more affordable to buy and install up front, which makes them a more sensible choice for people with low initial investment capacity.

The space available for installation is another factor to consider. Electric boilers need a specific area for the boiler itself, the piping that goes with it, and any radiators or underfloor heating systems. Conversely, convectors are a good fit for spaces with limited floor space or for those who prefer a more understated heating solution because they are frequently wall-mounted and take up little room.

Moreover, convectors and electric boilers require different maintenance. Convectors often have fewer moving parts and may only need the heating element and vents cleaned on occasion, but electric boilers may require periodic servicing to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

In conclusion, it’s critical to take into account aspects like cost, space constraints, maintenance needs, and heating efficiency when choosing between an electric boiler and a convector for your home’s heating needs. You can choose a home heating system that will guarantee comfort, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness by carefully weighing these factors along with your unique requirements and preferences.

Electric boiler and convector – what is the principle of operation of heating devices

The mains supply power to both gadgets. There are analogs operating from 220 volts and 380 volts in the model line of the two apparatuses. In the first scenario, connecting to the power supply requires using a standard socket. Special terminal connectors via a circuit breaker are used in the second.

Both the electric boiler and the convector operate on different principles. Equipment that is linked to the home’s radiator heating system is called a boiler. The configuration will call for:

• electric boiler;
• piping;
• radiators;
• shut-off valves;
• A system for controlling the coolant.

Electric boilers are distinct in design. The most common modification involves installing a TEN (tubular electric heater) in a tank and filling it with water or antifreeze. The heating system is also filled with the liquid, in addition to the tank.

The heating element heats it, and it expands and starts to rise. travels via radiators, emitting heat into the surrounding atmosphere. It begins to descend into the electric boiler after cooling down in this manner. The cycle is repeatedly carried out.

Another entirely unrelated device is a convector. Its structural component is a metal case with slits on both the top and bottom. Either a heating element or a nichrome coil is installed inside. After rising and being heated by the heat source, air enters through the lower slots and leaves through the upper ones. The room is heated in this manner.

Electric convector operation principle

What there are electric convectors

They are all comparable to one another. The installed heating element, extra monitoring, and control units are the only things that separate them. The usage of heating elements is the only item that needs to be addressed right away. The air coming from the spiral is extremely dry, which lowers the standard of the home’s microclimate. With heating elements, this does not occur as frequently.

These heating components in convectors can be made of ceramic or metal. The latter are superior. Heating elements made of metal contain the same spiral. It is not in contact with the tube walls; rather, it is inside the tube. This will cause a short circuit, which will cause the heating element to fail. It will just exhaust itself.

Since ceramic is a great insulator, the device’s coil is firmly pressed up against the tube’s inner walls. The heating element produces more heat when there isn’t any air between the components. It operates more efficiently.

A block that controls the air temperature exiting the convector makes up the second element. Here, you have two choices:

• thermostat;
• control board.

The first is a mechanical regulator, which makes precise temperature control challenging. The second is a "smart" device that only needs to have the necessary temperature parameters programmed into it. The gadget will function entirely on its own. In addition to regulating the interior temperature, it has the ability to switch on or off the power supply based on the outside weather and time of day. Controlling modern devices is possible even from a smartphone.

Electric convector advantages:

• low price compared to electric boilers;
• ease of installation;
• connection – through a socket;
• the air is heated quickly.

• high consumption of electricity;
• air dryer.

There is an extensive selection of models of electric convectors available in the market. Their power consumption varies, ranging from 500 Watts and above (0.5 KW). Additionally, this power is thought to be the device’s heating characteristic because the convector heats the air directly. As a result, decisions must be made based on this indicator.

The capacity of heating devices can be calculated using a formula. Ceiling heights of 2.7-3.0 meters require 100 watts of heat energy for every 1 m². A room measuring 20 m², for instance, would need either two 1.0 KW convectors or a convector with a 2.0 KW capacity.

However, this formula should only be applied if the convector serves as the primary source of heat. If it serves as an extra component of the heating system, a low-power gadget is selected.

Convectors with various capacities

Types of electric boilers and their features

1. High fire safety. An important parameter, especially when the task of installing a boiler in a wooden house.
2. Simple installation and minimal installation costs.
3. Wide model range. It is possible to choose a device that will cost a little more than a convector. It all depends on the functionality of the equipment.
4. Optimal dimensions. In a small-sized housing manufacturers manage to accommodate not only the heating unit, but also a circulation pump, control and monitoring unit, expansion tank, cleaning system.
5. It is easy to use electric boilers. It is necessary to press only two or three buttons.
6. The device works quietly.
7. High efficiency factor.
8. You do not need a permit from the state authorities to carry out the installation.

1. Complete dependence on electricity. If there is no power supply in the house, the boiler will not work.
2. The water filled into the system must be very clean. Impurities under the influence of high temperatures will deposit on the heating element, the efficiency of which will immediately drop. This will lead to overconsumption of electricity.
3. In heating systems where an electric boiler is used, it is necessary to install bimetallic or aluminum radiators. Steel and cast iron are not suitable. With the latter, overconsumption of fuel is possible.
4. If the boiler output is more than 9.0 kW, it will be necessary to connect it to a three-phase circuit with a voltage of 380 volts.

Three types of electric boilers are currently available from manufacturers:

• with TENS;
• with the electrodes;
• Induction type.

Electric boilers with heating elements

The most affordable and basic models. In this instance, there may be one or more heating elements within. They can be linked collectively or individually in series.

Electric boilers with TENS are among the most dependable appliances; they are also reasonably priced, have a straightforward design, and improve indicators like maintainability. These kinds of devices have the drawback of slowly heating up after startup due to their inertness. Yet, the devices have received positive reviews.

Heating-element electric boilers

Electrode

A common term for them is ionic. Electric boilers got their moniker because they use electrodes as a heating element, which ionizes water molecules and causes them to move.

Each device that runs on 220V has one electrode installed. It’s a rod made of steel. The second is made out of the boiler’s metal housing. Three electrodes are inserted in the method, which runs on 380V.

The benefits of ionic models

• high speed of heating the coolant;
• well withstand voltage fluctuations;
• 100% safety – without water they simply do not work;
• the devices are compact.

• periodic replacement of electrodes is required;
• special requirements for the purity of the coolant;
• grounding circuit is obligatory;
• heats water up to a temperature of +75 ℃;
• incompatibility with cast iron and steel radiators.

Electric boiler electrodes operating at 380V

Induction

Electric boilers can now be used for decades without needing to be repaired or prevented thanks to this contemporary alternative solution. Also, the design is highly efficient. The main idea is that there is no water contact with the heating element.

• great savings in energy consumption – up to 30%;
• no limescale appears inside, hence no serious requirements to the heat carrier;
• fast heating.

Minuses also consist of:

• heavy;
• noisy operation;
• the price is higher than other models;
• circulation pump, expansion tank, other units and blocks are purchased separately.

Principles of building a heating system with convectors and electric boilers

No problems arise with convectors. All they do is hang from the walls and plug them into a socket. After turning on and setting the device to a specific temperature, the necessary quantity of heat energy is produced.

Electric boilers increase complexity in all aspects. It involves not just the installation but the installation of the complete heating system, which consists of the control and management system, shut-off valves, pipes, and radiators. Although expensive, the measure is worthwhile. Reason:

• The radiator heating system evenly warms up the rooms;
• it is possible to reduce the operation of the electric boiler when no one is in the house;
• the air is not over-dried;
• The heating system works for decades, if you perform preventive maintenance in time.

There are a number of important considerations to take into account when choosing between an electric boiler and a convector for home heating. Priority one should be given to determining your unique heating requirements and your home’s layout. Convectors might be more effective in smaller spaces or individual rooms, but electric boilers are usually better suited for larger homes with several bathrooms.

Energy efficiency is another essential factor. Because they can heat water on demand and distribute it throughout the house via radiators or underfloor heating systems, electric boilers are typically more energy-efficient overall. Conversely, convectors produce heat instantly but may require more electricity over time, particularly if they are used frequently.

An important consideration for many homeowners is cost. Electric boilers can lead to lower energy bills over time because of their efficiency, even though they typically have higher upfront installation costs. Conversely, convectors can be more economical to buy and install at first, but they can have higher ongoing expenses, especially in larger homes or during the winter.

In addition, longevity and upkeep need to be considered. Because they don’t rely on air circulation and have fewer moving parts than convectors, electric boilers usually require less maintenance. On the other hand, because convectors are less prone to wear and tear, they might last longer if properly maintained.

In conclusion, your unique needs, preferences, and financial situation will ultimately determine whether you choose an electric boiler or a convector. Convectors provide instant heat and might be more affordable for smaller spaces, but electric boilers are more energy-efficient and are better suited for larger properties. You can make an informed choice that guarantees your home will be heated comfortably and effectively by carefully weighing these factors.

In deciding between an electric boiler and a convector for your home heating needs, several key factors come into play. Electric boilers offer consistent heat throughout the home and are ideal for larger spaces, while convectors are better suited for smaller areas where quick heating is required. Consider the size of your home and your heating needs carefully. Electric boilers require more installation space and may be costlier upfront, but they can be more energy-efficient in the long run. On the other hand, convectors are easier to install and cheaper initially, but they may consume more energy over time. Additionally, think about your lifestyle and preferences—are you looking for a system that requires minimal maintenance, or are you willing to invest time and effort into optimizing efficiency? By weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision that best suits your home and budget.

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