What to choose, a fan heater or a heat gun: comparative characteristics, safety, cost

There are seemingly limitless options available when it comes to effectively and efficiently heating your home. Nonetheless, fan heaters and heat guns are two popular options for smaller areas. Both provide speedy heating solutions, but they have different features, safety requirements, and price points. Making the best decision for your heating requirements can be facilitated by being aware of their distinctions.

Let’s start by discussing fan heaters. The way these handheld gadgets operate is by forcing air over a heating element and then distributing it throughout the space. They are frequently used for spot heating or as a supplement to central heating systems because of their rapid heating capabilities. Fan heaters are available in a range of shapes and sizes, from small desk-sized models to larger ones intended to heat larger spaces.

Heat guns, however, function in a different way. Heat guns release a concentrated stream of hot air to disperse heat rather than using a fan. They’re frequently employed for projects like painting, thawing frozen pipes, and even craft work. Heat guns can deliver strong heat in certain areas when needed, but they are not usually used for heating an entire room.

Both fan heaters and heat guns need to be considered in terms of safety. When in use, fan heaters can burn anyone who touches them, especially small children and animals. To avoid toppling over, they should also be set on sturdy surfaces. Conversely, heat guns release a great deal of heat, so handling them carefully is necessary to prevent burns and material damage.

Another thing to think about when deciding between a heat gun and a fan heater is cost. Fan heaters are usually more reasonably priced up front and are easily accessible in a variety of pricing points to suit a variety of budgets. However, if they are used frequently, they may eventually result in higher energy bills. Heat guns may cost more up front, but because they heat objects directly instead of warming the air in the room, they typically use less energy.

In conclusion, your particular heating needs, safety concerns, and financial constraints will determine whether you choose a fan heater or a heat gun. Fan heaters are a great way to quickly heat a room, and they are available in different sizes and styles to fit different types of spaces. Conversely, heat guns provide focused heat for particular purposes and may ultimately use less energy. The decision ultimately boils down to what suits your house and way of life the best.

Comparing a fan heater and a heat gun

Even the names of devices are perceived differently by most users. As an illustration, a heat fan is thought of:

1. A safe home appliance, often for individual heating.
2. Low power – can be plugged into any outlet.
3. Easy to operate.

On the other hand, most people think of construction sites and harsh working environments when they think of heat guns. which indicates that it is not appropriate for use as comfort heating or permanent heating in homes. This isn’t entirely accurate, though; a heat gun is a heater.

The principle of operation of a heat gun and a fan heater

Both heaters have essentially the same operating mechanisms. variations in heating power and mode of operation. Typically, a heat fan consists of a thin plastic casing that houses a tiny heating element (usually made of ceramic or metal) that allows air to be blasted through a fan. Power: 1.2–2.0 kWh in continuous mode of operation.

The fan may be centrifugal or axial, with blades visible through the grille. The impeller in this instance is concealed within the housing-shelter.

The majority of contemporary heaters have poorly operating fans. The fan itself should be able to operate in the heating mode for an extended period of time, and the electric motor inside the case should not overheat or produce noise. There is no special significance to the air pressure or flow rate. You won’t feel the airflow if you put your hand within 10 to 15 cm of the grille.

In order to prevent the heating element from overheating while in use, the air capacity is chosen. The fan heater shouldn’t be noisy in theory, though in maximum operation mode, a small rustling sound is permitted.

The heat gun’s design is more intricate:

1. Heating power – 2-6 kWh.
2. Robust solid aluminum housing.
3. Heavy weight – you can"t put the heat gun on the table or on a shelf.
4. No decorative elements.

However, the type of work is where the biggest distinction is found. The air flow should be distributed at the grille’s outlet since the heat fan heats it. The designers’ idea called for the formation of a warm air cloud surrounding the unit. That is the reality. In order to immerse themselves in the warm air, most users place the heat pump close by, usually on the floor beneath their feet.

The heat gun’s purpose and nomenclature are appropriate. The fan blades are thought to be more robust and have a unique profile to produce a concentrated, strong heat flow. Consequently, the heat gun shoots hot air at least two to three meters away.

Certain models of heat guns even allow you to remove the outer casing. Even without the cladding, the cannon’s fan shoots a hot air jet that is directed very narrowly.

When the housing of a fan heater is removed, air is released in all directions. This is the ideal configuration to ensure that the hot stream quickly combines with the cold layers and doesn’t overheat adjacent objects.

What heats up faster

The fan heater may be equipped with a ceramic-metal honeycomb element or an open nichrome spiral. Because of the low fan power, there is little flow, and the heating element shouldn’t slow it down.

In just a few seconds of operation, the coil can reach a dark crimson temperature of 500°C when operating at full power.

The majority of heat gun models come with closed-type heaters. These are prerequisites for safe operation in the circumstances of a building site. The heating element consists of a stainless steel tube that is sealed around a thick wire.

The air heats more slowly in the heating coil because its specific surface area is smaller than that of the fan heater.

The main use of a heat gun is to heat a big area evenly and gradually. For instance, a wall that has been prepared for painting or vinyl stretch ceiling film. The heat gun’s airflow should be moderately hot in order to prevent the material from overheating. Large storage spaces are also heated by the units.

Power output and energy consumption

A heat gun produces more heat in a given amount of time than a fan heater does. An electric heat gun typically has a power output of 4-5 kW. There exist 8-10 kW models. There is 200–500 m 3 of air flow per minute.

In ten minutes, the heat gun can nearly completely warm a 70–80 m³ space. To ensure uniform heating, the heat gun heater must be controlled as well.

We’ll use 1.2–1.5 kWh for heating. However, not all electrical wiring is designed to sustain a 20 A load for an extended length of time.

The fan heater has a maximum power of 2 kW. It can only be used for a few hours at most when operating. A similar-sized room will take at least two hours to warm up. Although the entire space is heated, some heat may be lost owing to ventilation because the fan heater heats the room locally, like a convector.

Convenience of operation

A fan heater is always more comfortable than a heat gun. Nearly every model of these heaters has a thermostat:

1. With keys for step-by-step power regulation.
2. Smooth adjustment of the degree of air heating.
3. Indicator of heater operation.
4. Protection from overheating.
5. Thermostat.

It is not necessary for humans to operate the fan heater. A timer and a sound signal can be found on some models’ integrated digital temperature indicators, and well-known brand heaters even come with remote controls.

You can program the fan heater to operate in a specific mode and then forget about it. Only if the heater is used to heat a workshop or auto repair shop can it be left unattended.

A heat gun needs to be operated and observed by humans. The only conveniences are a handle and a stand that can be tilted to a different angle. Even though many models have a block of smooth temperature control, you still need to periodically adjust the air jet’s direction to prevent overheating furniture polish or wall cladding.

Dimensions

The smallest fan heater is no larger than a few textbook stacks put together. More potent versions can grow to the size of a split system or an inkjet printer. Because of its small size and light weight, the device is easy to pack and carry, even on public transit.

A little heat gun does not exist. Larger ones must be made by manufacturing companies to fit a powerful axial fan. A heat gun is much heavier than a heat fan by several times. As intended, it doesn’t require carrying. The only models with fully functional wheels on the carriage are the powerful ones that are used to dry equipment after a car wash.

Reliability and safety

Modern heating apparatus has certification. As a result, thermostats, fan rotation sensors, and protective relays should be included with heat guns and fan heaters.

Small heaters typically have a thermal relay, which cuts off the power supply to the device in the event that the bimetallic element overheats. Stronger models come with a thermostat, and floor-standing models additionally feature a sensor to prevent the heating element from overturning or shorting out. Typically, heat guns are only furnished with a short-circuit sensor for the wiring and a heat trap (overheating protection).

Both units also go through a hygienic inspection. It is investigated what kind of heated air it is. Since the heat gun is an industrial device, there are fewer requirements. As a result, after heating, the air may smell like oxidized metal.

Heat-ventilating devices are less reliable than heat guns in terms of reliability. Originally intended for heavier loads, prolonged operation, storage in cold, wet rooms, and cargo compartment transit, they were designed with cargo capacity in mind.

Even when a heat gun is in use, you can drop it from your hands onto the ground. There is a 90% chance that the device won’t sustain serious harm and will keep working.

Handling a fan heater requires extra caution. For instance, falls are typically the reason why budget class models fail. Either the frame cracks or the coil ends break off as it hits the ground. The worst-case scenario involves coils crossing over, which causes the spiral element to burn out.

Cost

The table allows you to compare the units. A heat gun will cost more than a heat ventilating heater at nearly the same power.

Three reasons prevent a heat gun from being less expensive:

1. The service life of the main elements of a heat gun is several times longer than that of a fan heater.
2. A more powerful and expensive fan with an electric motor is used.
3. Manufacturing a metal frame, housing, heating elements is more expensive than a plastic box of a fan heater.

Furthermore, it is important to consider that the market offers both affordable knockoffs from South-East Asia and China and authentic heaters manufactured in the Russian Federation, the Republic of Belarus, and the European Union when comparing the price of a heat gun and a fan heater. A distinction exists. The latter’s electrical products are less dependable and have smaller safety margins for wiring, switches, thermostats, and motors. Heat fans and heat guns are therefore less expensive.

When deciding between a fan heater and a heat gun for heating your home, it"s essential to consider several factors. Both options have their pros and cons, ranging from safety to cost-effectiveness. Fan heaters are typically more affordable and safer for general household use, as they distribute heat evenly and have built-in safety features like automatic shut-off mechanisms. However, they might not be as powerful for large spaces or outdoor use. On the other hand, heat guns provide intense, targeted heat and are versatile for various tasks beyond just heating, but they can be more expensive and pose higher safety risks if not used correctly. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific heating needs, budget, and safety considerations.

Selecting between a heat gun and a fan heater for home heating can seem like a difficult choice. Each has pros and cons of their own, ranging from cost considerations to safety issues.

Let’s start by thinking about safety. Usually, fan heaters have built-in safety features like automatic shut-off mechanisms to guard against overheating. However, if positioned too close to combustible materials, they may present a fire risk. On the other hand, because of their high temperatures and potential for burns, heat guns must be handled carefully. Heat guns must be used in places with good ventilation and kept out of the reach of young children and animals.

Let’s move on to discussing costs. In general, fan heaters are less expensive initially than heat guns. Additionally, they typically use less energy to provide consistent heat without using a lot of power. But when it comes to certain jobs where accuracy and force are needed, like paint removal or welding, heat guns may end up being a more economical choice in the long run.

Versatility is another important consideration. Fan heaters may not be appropriate for tasks requiring concentrated heat or precise temperature control because they are usually made for general heating purposes. Heat guns, on the other hand, are useful for a variety of tasks beyond heating because they have multiple nozzle attachments and adjustable temperature settings.

In conclusion, your unique requirements and preferences will ultimately determine which of a fan heater and a heat gun is best for you. In case you’re seeking for an affordable and uncomplicated heating option for your house, a fan heater could be the best choice. Nevertheless, despite its higher initial cost and safety concerns, a heat gun might be a better choice if you need precise heating for professional or do-it-yourself projects.

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