Space heaters and radiators are both heating devices used to warm indoor spaces. These devices operate in slightly different ways, providing consistent heating and maintaining a comfortable environment throughout the space. Electric heaters and radiators come in various types, mounting configurations, and designs, making them ideal candidates for homes and commercial buildings.
What are Space Heaters?
Space heaters are portable electric heaters designed to heat enclosed spaces or rooms within homes, offices, and other workplaces. They are portable heaters and are easily moved from place to place, especially during colder months. A space heater comes in various types and sizes and requires a power outlet to work. Electric space heaters provide quick heating, are energy efficient and versatile, and come with user-friendly controls, including timers, auto on/off, and safety features, making them a popular choice for residential and even non-residential settings.
Popular Types of Space Heaters
Some common types of space heaters include:
- Electric Convection Heaters: These heaters use electricity to heat a heating element, which then warms the surrounding air. The warm air rises, creating a convection current that circulates heat throughout the room. Electric convection heaters are generally safe and energy-efficient.
- Electric Radiant Heaters: Radiant heaters emit infrared radiation that heats objects and people directly in their path. They are ideal for quickly warming up a specific area or for spot heating. Radiant heaters are energy-efficient and work well for personal comfort.
- Fan-Forced Heaters: A fan heater combines convection and a built-in fan to distribute heated air quickly and efficiently. They are effective at heating medium-sized rooms and are known for their fast-heating capabilities.
- Ceramic Heaters: These heaters incorporate a ceramic heating element and a fan to distribute warm air and are known for their quick heating capabilities and energy efficiency. Ceramic heaters are suitable for heating small to medium-sized rooms.
- Oil-Filled Radiator Heaters: Oil-filled radiators contain a series of heating elements submerged in oil. They heat the oil, which then radiates heat into the room. These heaters provide slow, steady heat output and are often used in bedrooms and other quiet spaces due to their silent operation.
- Propane or Gas Space Heaters: These heaters use propane or natural gas (as a fuel source) to produce heat. They are often used in outdoor spaces, garages, or areas without access to electricity.
What are Radiators?
Radiators are heating devices designed to provide warmth and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. They are typically made of metal (such as cast iron, steel, or aluminium) and are an integral part of a central heating system. Electric radiators are more robust and larger than space heaters – engineered to heat larger spaces. A radiator provides uniform and slow heat and uses liquid, oil, or electricity to warm the surrounding environments. Like electric heaters, electric radiators also come with special features, including timers, quiet operation, built-in thermostats, and temperature control adjustments, making them cost-effective options.
Popular Types of Radiators
Radiators are available in various forms based on the elements used, mounting configurations, and intended environments where they are used. Some common radiator types include:
- Electric Radiators – Electric radiators use electrical resistance heating elements to generate heat. They are easy to install and control, making them a popular choice for supplemental heating or in homes without central heating systems.
- Steam Radiators – These are one of the oldest types of radiators and are typically found in older buildings. Steam radiators use steam from a central boiler to heat metal fins or coils. As the steam condenses, it releases heat into the room.
- Hot Water Radiators – Hot water radiators operate on a similar principle to steam radiators but use hot water instead of steam to heat the radiator. Water is circulated through the radiator, and as it loses heat, it warms the surrounding air.
- Panel Radiators – These radiators consist of flat panels with pipes running through them. They are often installed vertically on walls and can be more aesthetically pleasing than traditional radiators.
- Baseboard Radiators – Baseboard radiators are long, narrow units that are typically installed at the base of walls. They contain heating elements and are often used in homes with hydronic (hot water) heating systems to provide consistent and even heating.
- Cast Iron Radiators – Cast iron radiators come in classic, durable, and ornate designs, providing a gradual and comfortable heating experience. They are commonly found in older homes and historic buildings.
- Wall-Mounted Radiators – Wall-mounted radiators can be electric or hydronic and are attached to the wall at a higher level. They are often used in bathrooms or areas where floor space is limited.
- Underfloor Heating (Radiant Heating) – This type of heating system is installed beneath the floor surface. It can use either hot water pipes (hydronic radiant heating) or electrical elements (electric radiant heating) to warm the floor, which in turn radiates heat upward into the room.
- Towel Radiators – These are specialized types of radiators commonly found in bathrooms. They serve both as a radiator to heat the bathroom and as a towel warmer. Towel radiators can be electric or hydronic.
Where Can I Use Space Heaters & Radiators?
Space heaters and radiators provide supplemental heat or as a primary heating source and can be used in various settings, such as:
- Homes
- Offices
- Commercial Spaces
- Apartments
- Garages and Workshops
- Greenhouses
- Outdoor Events and Patios
- Emergency Heating.
