Which heating convectors are best for a private house. Types of floor heating convectors and how to choose. Features of operation of convectors

Electric heating convectors: which are better for a private house

From a letter to the editor: “I got the idea to replace traditional wood-fired heating in a country house. Let at least partially. The area of ​​the house is only about 60 square meters. m. What do you recommend? Particularly interested in real efficiency in practice, well, and reliability, of course. Never had to face it. I ask you to help with advice, consult."

When choosing devices for space heating, many of the buyers out of habit give priority to foreign companies. And believe me, not only because the brand is well-known and for this reason the product inspires more confidence. No really heating equipment foreign companies proves its high quality and reliability in practice for years.

But do not think that only imported devices have a long service life. Among domestic companies in last years also became known to those whose products compete quite well with foreign manufacturers. But this is a separate conversation. Otherwise, how can you choose high-quality and affordable devices. Today we will consider what electric heating convectors are, we will analyze where they are used.

In modern life, heaters are a common occurrence. Almost every home has them. Someone traditionally uses oil. Others have convectors. Both operate on the same general principle heating of air masses - this is the actual process of convection, if anyone does not know.

The principle of operation of the electric convector

The expression "convection" itself is derived from the Latin word convectiō, meaning literally "transfer". Everything is simple here. From the course of physics, we know that cold air has a much higher density than warm air. It is for this reason that, descending and actively displacing the warm layers, the cold masses accumulate below. So in a natural way, it enters the lower grate of the electric convector. Moving through the heating elements, the lower layers of air warm up, which makes them lighter and gradually rise to the upper layers. And, on the contrary, the upper layers of air, gradually cooling down, become heavier and tend to go down ... This process occurs again and again. The permanent movement of air masses creates a comfortable temperature in the room.

The electric convector consists of a steel or aluminum case, in which the actual heating elements (heating elements) are built-in, which are high-resistance conductors in a ceramic sheath. The structure is controlled by a thermostat.

The device and principle of operation of an electric convector - a general diagram

The temperature of the working surface of the heating element in the active (on) state usually ranges from 60-100 C. Convectors do not dry out the air.

Principle of operation, video

Device

Most often, appliances are placed under the windows, but this is not so important. Can be placed on the wall in any corner of the room, where you see fit.

Varieties of electric convectors

Electric convectors are divided into several types:

• Wall mounted;
• floor;
• Stationary, built into the floor.

A wall-mounted convector has a height of about 40-45 cm. A floor-mounted convector is narrow and oblong, the device is usually hardly more than 20 cm in height. Also, convectors can be built into the floor and closed with a grate on top. In this case, they are installed at the stage of building construction or its repair. Floor and floor-mounted convectors provide more uniform and faster heating of the room (even though heating element wall-mounted convectors are more powerful) and convection flows are less when using them. This is achieved due to the fact that the length of the heating element of a floor or floor-mounted convector is much larger. Another positive quality the convector built into the floor is its invisibility. The main advantage of a wall convector is the ease of installation.

The efficiency of floor convectors is higher, because they give off heat throughout the body. But in installation with a wall structure, it is easier, so they are more popular.

Wall-mounted ones are usually quite high (40-45 cm). Floor oblong low (usually no more than 20 cm). Although wall convectors have a higher power of the heating element, it is floor convectors that heat the air in the room as quickly and evenly as possible. However, please note installation of a floor convector is more complicated than a wall convector.

Is it economical to heat a country house with electric convectors - expert opinion

Which convector to choose

• They do not require particularly close supervision.
• Quickly warm up the room, do not provoke drafts.
• Electronic automation - a built-in thermostat - controls the temperature in the room, which allows you to significantly save energy.
• Thanks to the thermostat, the heating elements do not overheat, which allows you to mount the convector on a variety of surfaces.
• Modern convectors are protected from possible splashes, they are used even in damp rooms.
• Safety. The metal casing of the convector heats up to the limits of 45-65 degrees. C - at such temperatures it is impossible to burn yourself on the body. Modern convectors have a well-thought-out ergonomic design, excluding sharp corners, so that the possibility of injury is minimal (devices are also installed in children's rooms).
• The convector does not dry, but heats the air, and it remains fresh, without unpleasant odors from combustion products.
• The convector does not have a forced ventilation system to supply air, so the appliances are silent.
• Wall-mounted (or universal) convectors are easily and simply mounted on almost any surface.

Selecting the power of the electric convector

Preset parameters:
Ceiling height 3 meters.
Comfort temperature +19 degrees. FROM

A useful and handy summary table for approximate calculations of the power of the heater in the room

Types and features of thermostats

Any electric heating convector has a built-in thermostat, which makes it possible to set the required room temperature. The thermostat control can be either mechanical or electronic.

Mechanical thermostat

In electric convectors with such a thermostat, the temperature is controlled by simply turning the step switch. Their only advantage over convectors on electronics with a mechanical thermostat is their low price. And the main disadvantage can be considered that due to the fact that it is impossible to establish exactly temperature regime, power consumption is increased.

Electronic thermostat

Thanks to him, it becomes possible to accurately set the desired temperature (the error can be up to tenths of a degree). The electronic thermostat works silently, and, most importantly, by setting the temperature control to automatic, it is possible to reduce energy consumption. Of course, the price of convectors with an electronic thermostat is higher than for mechanically controlled devices, but the advantages of electronics are undeniable.

How to install a thermostat on a convector heater (video)

This question, as well as the question of how to replace a mechanical thermostat on a convector with an electronic one, is often heard among our subscribers. Today we will not dwell on this topic in detail, but perhaps this video will be useful to someone.

Additional functions

Many electric convectors, especially for devices with an electronic thermostat, have some additional features that increase heating efficiency and user comfort during operation.

• Several different operating modes, including such as "economy", "automatic", "comfort", etc.;
• Antifreeze. Automatic inclusion of the device in the heating mode when the temperature in the room drops below 5 °C;
• Built-in ionizer. Saturation of the air in the room with negative ions. By the way, the ionizer can remain in operation even when the heating element is turned off;
• Restart or Autorestart. The electronics remembers the set settings and automatically returns them when work is resumed after a power outage;
• Tipping sensor. This function greatly increases the safety of the device, as it turns off in case of a fall;
• Programmable thermostat. With its help, a change in the temperature mode is programmed after some time, it is also possible to set a certain temperature by time of day or day of the week;
• control module. Thanks to him, you can control several devices at once from one remote control and regulate the temperature in different rooms.

Electric wall convector in the interior

There are universal convectors, they are equipped with removable rolling rollers, and also have fasteners for wall mounting.

Such a device can simply be removed from the wall and reinstalled in the right place. Stationary convectors require precise positioning.

High-quality heating elements made of steel, which can withstand high temperatures on the filament, can last more than 15 years. Accordingly, many convectors are given a guarantee of 2 years or more.

How to choose power

The convector is selected according to the formula 90-100 W / 1 sq. meter. That is, for heating a room of 20 square meters. m will require a device with a power of 1800-2000 watts.

In a room with ceilings 2.5-3 meters high, the power should be increased by 1.5-2 times, and if the convector is not the main heating device for the room, then lower it.

A feature of the principle of operation of the convector is that each panel operates on the principle of providing autonomous power.

How to choose the cable section?

A device with a power of up to 1.5 kW should have a cross section of 1.5 sq.m, but if the convector is more powerful than 1.5 kW, you need to choose a cable cross section of 2.5 sq.m.

The cable is laid from the switchboard in a separate line and connected through a separate machine.

The second choice parameter is a mechanical or electronic thermostat.

A convector equipped with a mechanical thermostat is cheaper, but it is not accurate enough and cannot flexibly respond to temperature changes below the one set. Prices for electric convectors with an electronic thermostat are on average 25-30% higher.

There are programmable thermostats on the market, they are flexibly adjusted, and you can set the temperature literally with an hourly change.

When choosing a home heating system, it is important to choose the right devices that quickly and efficiently heat the air in the premises. Modern electric heating convectors are devices aimed at maintaining a comfortable temperature in a house or apartment.

They greatly facilitate the work of traditional heating systems, and in certain cases can even completely replace them.

In this article we will talk about the principles of operation of convectors, share the secrets of choosing equipment and give a small rating best devices according to users.

The operation of the device is based on the process of convection associated with the known physical phenomenon: when heated, the density of air decreases, as a result of which it expands and rises.

The name convector comes from the Latin convectio - "transfer". The process consists of a constant movement of air flows: the cold one settles down, and the warm one rises to the ceiling.

The design of all types of electric convectors is extremely elementary. The main parts of the device are the body and the heating unit, located in the lower part of the casing.

Cold air enters the holes, which are located at the bottom of the device. When passing next to the heater, the temperature of the air flow rises, due to which it rushes upwards, where there are outlet holes made at a slight slope.

Rating of electric convectors for heating

Participants of specialized forums made a rating of electrical appliances, taking into account the main parameters and features of operation.

Electrolux ECH/AG-1500EF

A budget mobile model from a Swedish manufacturer, which attracts with its high efficiency and speed of reaching the operating temperature.

A quality convector model from Electrolux allows you to reach operating temperature in just 80 seconds, effectively heating an average-sized room

The advantages also include a system of protective screens and the absence of air drying. The disadvantages of the device include a simple design and a small heating area.

Timberk TEC PS1 LE 1500 IN

A convenient high-quality device manufactured by a well-known international holding, whose subdivisions are located in Europe and Asia.

An inexpensive mobile model on wheels has two heating modes (one of them is economical), high specifications, as well as many additional features:

• large area heating element;
• high-precision electronic thermostat;
• on/off timer;
• the ability to connect accessories;
• air ionizer.

The shortcomings noticed by consumers are inexpressive, according to some, design and sound effects (clicks) that are heard when the device is turned on and off.

Noirot Spot E-3 1000

The wall-mounted convector made in France has a pleasant design, affordable price, high efficiency, as well as a wide range of settings.

The device has protection against overheating, a large amount of memory that allows you to restore the settings in the event of a sudden power outage, as well as a special system that counteracts power surges in the network.

Among the weaknesses were noted tight mode switch and not too long cord.

Nobo C4F 20 XSC

Wall model from the Norwegian manufacturer. It has instant heating, is able to heat large areas, which will please the owners of large rooms.

The device, which has a nice design, has an overheating protection sensor, mechanical regulation of parameters with the ability to set the exact temperature, and ergonomic mounts that allow the device to be tilted.

The convector has almost no drawbacks, except for the price, which is quite high.

Scoole SC HT HM1 1000W

Electric portable convector made in Norway has an attractive design. A small model at a budget price is a fairly powerful device that can instantly heat a medium-sized room.

The Scoole mobile model differs not only bright color, but also good performance. The mikathermic heating element guarantees sufficient power and high heating speed, and the mechanical thermostat features precise control.

The disadvantages include significant power consumption, which increases operating costs.

Ballu ENZO BEC/EZMR 2000

Model Russian production with a monolithic heater has a democratic cost, but at the same time it has high technical characteristics.

A convector capable of quickly heating a room at 21-25 square meters, has an electronic thermostat, two modes of heat transfer, one of which allows you to save electric current, protection against overheating and overturning.

There are also two options for mounting (the kit includes fasteners for wall fixing and wheels for floor use), a control unit with backlight and a temperature step of 1 degree.

Important pluses are also comfortable uniform convection, the presence of a shutdown timer, the ability to program modes.

Among the weaknesses, users distinguish between a not too long cord and insufficiently strong wheels.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The video contains material on the criteria according to which a high-quality electric heating convector is selected, as well as information on the most popular brands:

Modern models of electric convectors allow you to solve the problem of maintaining a comfortable temperature in the rooms. A properly selected device combines fast heating time, high power and energy-saving technologies, as well as comfort in operation.

Choice the best option cottage heating or country house is not an easy task. There are many ways to heat a home, and each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. website talk about this type of heating, like convectors.

The term "convector" combines a large number of heating devices that are very different from each other. It is worth dividing convectors into 3 main groups:

1. Convectors for water heating systems. They are an element heating system, in which the coolant (water or special antifreeze) is heated using a heating boiler, flows through the pipes and gives off heat to the premises through the convector.
2. Convector with integrated electric generator heat.
3. Convector with built-in gas heat generator.

What is more profitable?

When choosing a heating method or a specific type of convector, it is logical to ask yourself: which is more profitable? which is more economical?

The cheapest energy source in Russia is mains gas. It turns out that the greatest savings during operation will be given by a heating system based on gas boiler or gas convectors. If you have a small cottage, it makes sense to opt for a fairly cheap gas convector. If there are many rooms, then pull into each of them gas pipe practically impossible, and it is logical to use a traditional water system based on a gas boiler.

If there is no gas, then it is worth considering other options for heating a country house. One of them is electric or water system based on electric boiler. Both of these options are very convenient to use, environmentally friendly and have a lot of other advantages. The main disadvantage is the high cost of electricity.

Electric heating convectors

It is easier, cheaper and faster to create a heating system based on electric convectors than any other. They are easy to hang and plug into an outlet. Electric convectors are direct electric heating systems.

Compared to a traditional water heating system, direct electric heating has its advantages:

• lower initial investment;
• the absence of a coolant, which a traditional heating system cannot do without, ensures that there will be no leaks and it will not freeze during an emergency power outage.

An electric convector is a device protected from the outside by a decorative metal case, with holes at the bottom for the exit of heated air. A heating element (TEN) is mounted in the lower part of the convector body. Often the convector includes a room thermostat that allows you to automatically maintain the set temperature in the room. In the case when several convectors are located in the room, it is more logical to install one common thermostat for the entire group of heaters

Models of electric convectors have the ability to install a thermostat and a programmer, with which you can program the convector operation modes not only during the day, but also for a week, which allows you to significantly save energy.

Electric heating convectors with a temperature controller, wall-mounted:

• atlantic,
• nobo,
• Noirot Spot,
• Stiebel Eltron.

Gas convector for heating

Gas convectors are complete heating devices that do not need to be connected to the boiler. Gas convectors, like conventional water heating radiators, are attached to the walls. They have inside gas burner. The principle of operation of a gas convector is simple - gas is burned in a sealed chamber. Thanks to the steel or cast-iron heat exchanger, the air in the room is heated. The intake of air for gas combustion and the emission of combustion products is carried out through a special coaxial pipe led through the wall to the street.

Unlike traditional water heating systems, the option of heating a country house with gas convectors has its advantages:

• the minimum number of system elements (no boiler, pipes, expansion tank etc.), which significantly reduces the initial investment in the heating system;
• the absence of a coolant (water) in the system solves such issues as the possibility of defrosting and failure of the system;
• no problems with coolant leaks;
• maximum ease of temperature control in each room.

Pros and cons

The advantage of gas convectors can be called their energy independence. It should be borne in mind that gas convectors can work not only from the main, but also from liquefied gas in a balloon. Working from a gas cylinder allows you to make the system almost autonomous from the outside world. But we must remember that heating with liquefied gas is much more expensive than the main one. One of the most important restrictions on the distribution of gas convectors is that a gas pipe must be pulled to each individual convector in all rooms, and a large number of points of connection of gas appliances in our country is prohibited.

Convectors for water heating systems

Steel water heating convectors are very widely used in modern Russian city houses. This is not surprising - they have a simple design, and are cheap. Them simple design(one or more pipes with "ribs - plates" put on them) guarantees high reliability. There is practically nothing to break. There are no joints, which means there is no chance of leaks. Convectors can be both with a protective decorative casing, and without it. The first option is very aesthetic. In these thermal appliances, almost all heat is transferred by convection. by placing the convector under the window, you can effectively cut off the cold air rushing into the room. Such heaters have low thermal inertia, which ensures fast regulation. Usually they are designed for a fairly high operating pressure, about 15 atm. Minus - uneven heating of the room, especially with high ceilings.

Plinth heating of a country house

In this case, heat is transferred to the room using a low plinth heater, which has a very small height (about 14 cm) and is located around the entire perimeter of the room.

This method of heating has the following advantages:

• heat is evenly distributed around the entire perimeter of the room, and does not heat only individual local zones;
• baseboard heating is convenient to use in rooms with large windows and a small distance from the floor to the windowsill.

Due to its small height, the plinth convector is very popular with designers, as it is almost invisible in the interior and does not spoil appearance premises.

Baseboard heating water systems have low thermal inertia, which allows them to be quickly regulated.

The disadvantages of this type of heating a private house include quite a serious investment. It is worth noting that baseboard heating can be either water, connected to a traditional heating boiler, or electric, which does not require an additional boiler.

Floor convectorsor how to use a floor heating convector built into the floor

In cottages with panoramic windows starting directly from the floor, it makes sense to install floor heating convectors built into the floor. With their help, you can create an almost invisible heating system that will not affect the design of the house. The presence of such convectors is indicated only by a decorative grill located in the floor. Floor convectors work on the same principle as conventional ones: the air in the room passes through the heating element and, when heated, rises.

The main elements of such convectors:

• heat exchanger,
• convector chute,
• shut-off and control valves,
• automatic in models with forced convection,
• decorative lattice.

Of the minuses of this heating system, it is worth noting that floor heating convectors are literally under your feet and often get dirty. Cleaning such a system is difficult. Dirt and dust accumulate under the grate, and as a result, the efficiency (heat transfer) of the convector drops. Pollution has a bad effect on the fan built into the convector. There are models without a built-in fan, but in this case the efficiency of the convector is lower.

For housing, heating systems are used that differ in the energy carrier used and design. Heating systems for a private house in the form of electric convectors are also popular. How are they different from other heaters?

Heating is the physical process of transferring heat from a hot medium - the heater material - to the cold indoor air in a room. Heat transfer occurs in several ways: radiation, heat conduction and convection. In building heating systems, convection and radiation are relevant, since thermal conductivity in its pure form occurs only when solids come into contact with each other.

During convection, heat is transferred by moving particles of matter; it occurs when warm liquid or gas flows move into a cold environment. Radiation - heat transfer is present during the operation of all types of heating (the larger their area, the more efficiently they radiate heat), but reaches its maximum value in infrared heaters. In other systems, heat transfer occurs by convection and radiation in different proportions. Since in electric convectors the main heat transfer takes place by the phenomenon of convection, and radiation does not play a significant role, they got their name consonant with the process.

Models and types of electric convectors for heating

Electric convectors for heating a private house are produced by many companies. They differ not only in design, but also in the principle of regulation, security and power of heating elements. In general, any electric convector, both for a private house and for other premises, consists of several elements:

• frame;
• heating elements;
• protection and regulation devices;
• air intake and supply grilles.

The main difference is the use of different heating elements and regulators.

There are several types of electric convectors. According to the type of thermostat used, they are:

• with mechanical thermostat;
• with electronic thermostat.

By type of heating element:

• with an open heating element;
• with protected heater.

Depending on the thermostat used, the accuracy of maintaining the temperature varies. Electronic ones are more accurate, but more expensive. In addition, they have more settings and additional functions (for example, a timer).

An open heating element is a needle heater or a spiral in direct contact with air. It is unacceptable to use it at high humidity and the risk of dripping. In a closed heating element, the conductor is protected by a dielectric layer and placed in a radiator (aluminum is most often used).

Comfort when using electric convectors

How safe and effective is it to use electric convectors for heating in a private house? A very common misconception among users is the belief that convectors “burn oxygen” during their operation. This is not true. Use oxygen to maintain combustion only appliances with an open flame: fireplaces, wood stoves, gas convectors and fan heaters. In this case, oxygen from the air is used for a chemical oxidation reaction.

When the heating element of a convector or other electrical device is heated, a chemical reaction does not occur (for example, a filament in an incandescent lamp “burns” even in a vacuum and an inert gas). So the appearance of “safe” electric convectors that do not consume oxygen is an invention of marketers.

Approximately the same story with the confidence of some users that electric heaters dry the air, unlike other appliances. This is also not entirely true. The relative humidity of the air does decrease with heating, but it is not affected in any way by the type of convector. Both when using a water radiator, and in the case of electric heater relative humidity will decrease equally at equal air temperatures.

Choosing a convector for a private house

In order to choose a model of an electric convector in a private house, we determine the following characteristics:

• heater power;
• type of heater;
• working conditions;
• place of installation.

Other characteristics of the device depend on your personal preferences (case design, type of fastening, etc.).

First of all, we calculate the required power of the convector. To accurately determine it, the heat loss of the house is found. This takes into account the location of the building, the material of the walls and windows, the climate zone and several other factors. But there is an easier and faster way. For him, you do not need to study textbooks on thermal physics - the calculation of power using a simplified formula. The accuracy of the method allows you to determine the approximate power of heating devices for rooms.

For a private house, the value of heat loss in watts is determined by the formula:

Q = a ⋅ Vsp ⋅ q(tin – tn), where:

• a \u003d 0.54 + 22 / (tv - tn) - coefficient for accounting for the climatic region;
• q = 1.16(((1+2⋅d) ⋅ A + Ssp)/Vsp) – heat loss specific characteristic (W/M3 ⋅ K);
• d is the glazing coefficient, take 0.2–0.3;
• Vzd - the volume of the building, limited by enclosing structures;
• Szd - building area in plan;
• A is the area of ​​the outer walls;
• tv, tn - design temperatures inside the building and outside.

We accept the power of heating devices not less than the total amount of heat loss.

To select a model of an electric convector for each room, we divide the total power by the sum of the areas of the rooms of a private house. According to the obtained specific value, it is easy to find a model of the required heat output in each room. When calculating, keep in mind that corner rooms and rooms with an increased area of ​​​​external walls and windows require 20-30% more energy consumption.

Sometimes a very simple calculation method is used - 1 kW of heating power per 10m2 of a room, but this method is completely inaccurate and is applicable, rather, for rooms in apartments.

The type of heating element matters only when the convector is installed in damp rooms. In this case, we choose a convector with a closed heating element and a protection class of at least IP24. All convectors are equipped with an overheating sensor and protective automation.

A separate convector is installed in each room.

Features of installation and operation

Electric convectors for heating a private house need correct installation. After choosing a model, we determine the installation location. Heaters work more efficiently when mounted under a window, so the flow of warm air rising from them heats the glass and prevents condensation from accumulating on it. If there is no window in the room, then it is better to hang the convector on the outer wall.

When installing, take into account minimum distances to building structures and furniture. You will find exact restrictions in the instructions for a specific model. Approximately the following distances should be observed:

• from the floor to the bottom of the device at least 8 cm;
• to side surfaces from 5 cm;
• to the windowsill 12–15 cm;
• from the front panel of the electric convector to the furniture, at least 50 cm.

During installation, all installation standards are taken into account electrical appliances. The heating system is connected to the power supply panel by separate wiring through circuit breakers.

Electric convectors are often used as the main or additional heating devices, especially in non-gasified settlements. With the help of these devices, you can set the desired temperature in your house, apartment or cottage without much cost and hassle. What you need to consider when choosing an electric convector will be discussed in this article.

Electric for heating: how to choose a good unit

Device, advantages and disadvantages of electric convectors

The principle of operation of electric convectors is based on the physical process of the same name - air convection. This process consists in the ability of warm air to rise up, displacing colder air masses. For the movement of air, it does not require the installation of a fan or other mechanism, they completely cope with this.

The device of the convector is extremely simple: a metal case with holes, a heating element installed inside and a control unit. The intake of cold air occurs through the holes in the lower part of the case, the return - through the holes at the top of the front panel. There are models equipped with a switchable fan, which is designed to quickly warm up the room and accelerate the convection of air flows.

Electric convectors have a whole list of advantages:

• rapid heating of the room;
• high efficiency - up to 96%;
• safety in use;
• silent operation;
• high level of automation;
• a large selection of models of various sizes and capacities;
• long service life.

The disadvantages of electric convectors include the high cost of electricity compared to other coolants and certain requirements for the power of the home electrical network.

The choice of a convector for heating a summer house or apartment is carried out taking into account several criteria:

• thermal and electrical power;
• installation method;
• the shape and dimensions of the body;
• heater type;
• type of temperature control in the control unit;
• the presence of the necessary protective functions;
• degree of automation.

Some characteristics of convectors, such as power and installation method, directly depend on the size and type of the heated room. The rest affect the reliability, durability and usability of the device, as well as its safety.

Electric convector power

The efficiency of electric convectors is quite high, it reaches 96%, so the value of thermal power is almost equal to the value of electric power. These parameters are measured in kilowatts. The calculation of the required power is carried out for each room separately, while taking into account the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room and the height of the ceilings.

When determining the power of the convector used as the main heating device, for rooms with different ceiling heights, you can use the data from Table 1.

Table 1. Determining the power of a convector depending on the height of the ceilings.

Ceiling height, m	Convector power per 1 sq.m., kW
2,5-2,7	0,1
2,7-3,0	0,11
3,0-3,3	0,12
3,3-3,5	0,13
3,5-4,0	0,15

For poorly insulated buildings and premises with two or more external walls, this figure is increased by a factor of 1.3-1.5.

Calculation example: for a corner room with an area of ​​18 m 2 with a ceiling height of 3.0 m, a convector with a heat output of 18 0.11 1.3 = 2.57 kW is required. The resulting value is rounded up to the nearest standard power. In this case, it is better to give preference to a more powerful device, if the parameters of the home electrical network allow.

If the convector is intended for additional heating of rooms with stove or water heating, it is enough to install a device with a capacity of 40-60% of the calculated one.

Note! In corner rooms with two or more windows, it is better to use several convectors with the required total power.

Installation method

According to the type of execution and installation, electric convectors are:

• wall-mounted, they are attached to the wall on brackets;
• floor, on legs or wheels;
• universal– The scope of delivery includes both brackets and legs.

Wall brackets are convenient when using convectors as the only source of heating or in combination with furnace heating. In this case, the convector is placed under the windowsill, like. The heat emanating from it not only warms the bulk of the air, but also creates thermal curtain at the window, reducing heat loss. Wall convectors can be wired hidden, which improves their appearance.

Floor convectors are more often used for temporary space heating: in the country or during severe frosts in addition to radiator heating. Floor models are convenient for their mobility, but they take up the usable area of ​​​​the room and sometimes interfere with free movement.

The installation method of universal convectors is chosen depending on their use and the characteristics of the room. There are also floor convectors that are mounted at the stage of pouring the subfloor. It is built into the floor with a grate in the upper part, through which cold air is taken in and heated air is released.

Prices for electric convectors

electric convectors

Case shape and dimensions

The convenience of installation, as well as the appearance of the device, mainly depends on the shape of the convector. The shape can be square, rectangular or round. Round models are often equipped with a fan.

Geometric dimensions affect the thermal characteristics of the convector. The rate of supply of warm air into the room depends on the height of the device; the optimal height is about 50 cm. In some cases, you have to give preference to lower models, for example, when installing a convector under a panoramic window.

The thickness of the case affects the heat transfer: the larger it is, the higher this parameter, as well as the efficiency of the convector. Wall and universal models are usually thinner, floor models can be 10-15 cm thick.

Note! When choosing the height of a wall-mounted convector installed under a window, it is important to take into account the minimum allowable distances to the floor and window sill. They are specified in the documentation for the device.

Heating element type

An important characteristic that you can check with the seller or look in the passport for the convector is the type of heating element; he can be:

• needle;
• tubular;
• monolithic.

Needle heaters consist of a steel plate with a zigzag thread of nickel wire. Electrotechnical varnish is used as electrical insulation on nickel wire. The heating of the nickel filament occurs very quickly, but the convection in such devices is not high and is due only to the design of the case.

This type of heater is the most unreliable and short-lived due to the fragility of the nickel filament and rapid overheating. Such convectors cannot be used indoors with high humidity and possible splashes or drops of water. The only advantage is the low price, so you can buy such convectors only in case of short-term use with constant monitoring.

Tubular heater is a sealed steel tube containing nichrome wire. It is isolated from the tube by a layer of ceramic backfill. Aluminum fins are soldered onto the tube to improve heat transfer and air convection.

Convectors with heating elements are durable and reliable, but they have one drawback: in the first minutes after switching on, they crackle due to the difference in thermal expansion of the heater materials. What “, You can see in our article.

Monolithic heaters- the most reliable and silent. They are a ribbed plate made of a single piece of material, therefore they have high strength and durability. The price of such convectors is usually higher than analogues, it is advisable to buy them for permanent use.

Temperature controller type

The regulator in the control unit is designed to automatically maintain the temperature in the room. Based on the readings of the sensor installed in the lower part of the convector body, the regulator turns on and off the heating element when the set temperature is reached.

There are two types of temperature controllers:

• mechanical;
• electronic.

Mechanical regulator made on the basis of a step switch, it is characterized by the simplest design. The disadvantage of mechanical control is low accuracy with an error of 1-3 degrees, as well as low reliability. When the mechanically controlled heater is turned on, a distinct click of the relay is heard.

The advantages of this type of switches include resistance to voltage drops in the network. When a mechanical regulator fails and fails, it can be quickly and inexpensively replaced.

Electronic control unit- a more complex device that allows you to set the temperature with an accuracy of 0.1 degrees, as well as different modes of use: night, day, mode of maintaining positive temperature. Turning the heater on and off is silent. Electronic controllers are often equipped with an LCD display that displays the temperature in the room, as well as the mode parameters when programming it.

Electronic regulators are generally more reliable, but fail when the voltage drops by 15-20% of the nominal value. Repair and replacement of the electronic unit are expensive, so it is better to install the device in conjunction with a voltage stabilizer or protective voltage relay.

Note! For heating rural or country house it is better to choose models with a mechanical regulator, since voltage drops are quite common in rural networks.

Protective functions

Almost all modern convectors are equipped with built-in overheating protection. It is triggered when the temperature controller fails or when the convection holes in the housing are closed, for example, when drying clothes on the convector. The protection turns off the heater when the temperature reaches a dangerous level for the insulation of the device or people.

Protection against water splashes is provided by the design of the housing, the size and location of the holes. It can be determined by the IP index indicated in the passport. For a bathroom or kitchen, the minimum value of this index should be 24.

Many floor and universal convector models are also equipped with tip-over protection. If the convector falls and changes its position to horizontal, the protection ensures quick shutdown of the heater.

Like all other household appliances, convectors must have a degree of protection against damage electric shock at least "2". This means that the power cord and plug of the appliance have a built-in ground, so the metal case does not need a separate ground.

Note! The convector must only be connected to a socket with a grounding conductor.

Degree of automation and additional functions

Convectors with an electronic control unit can be equipped with additional functions:

• "restart" - the ability of the regulator to remember the last switched on mode and reproduce it even after a complete blackout of the device;
• "antifreeze" - when the air temperature in the room reaches +5°C, the convector will automatically turn on and maintain it at this level;
• "ionization" - a relatively new function that allows you to clean and improve the air in the room, in most convectors it works even when the heater is turned off;
• remote control - allows you to turn the device on and off, as well as change the mode remotely.

The choice of feature set depends on your needs and financial capabilities. At the same time, you should not overpay for additional features that are unlikely to be useful to you. For example, the "antifreeze" mode is relevant for a summer residence or a country house with periodic residence, in a city apartment with central heating it's practically useless.

Wiring Requirements

The standard power of convectors, depending on the model, can vary from 0.5 to 3 kW. Electrical wiring and protective equipment in houses old building unable to withstand the maximum power of the device.

In this case, you can focus on the following conditions:

• a convector with a power of up to 2.0 kW can be connected to any standard home electrical wiring with an introductory circuit breaker with a rating of at least 10 A;
• for a device with a power of 2.0-2.5 kW, electrical wiring with a cross section of 2.5 mm 2 for aluminum or 1.5 mm 2 for copper, a 16 A socket and a rating of the input circuit breaker of at least 16 A is required;
• a convector with a power above 2.5 kW must be connected with a separate cable with a cross section of at least 2.5 mm 2 in copper through a separate circuit breaker with a rating of 16 A.

Important! Do not use extension cords of dubious quality to connect convectors; they often use small-section wires that can melt under load.

How to choose a convector - step by step instructions

Choosing a convector is not the most difficult task, but to ensure its efficient and safe work it is important to follow the recommendations of experts.

Step 1. Determine why you need a convector: for constant full heating or as a source of additional heating, and in accordance with this, calculate the power of the device.

Step 2 Determine the installation location and required mobility. Mounted convectors are usually installed under a window or on a wall that has direct contact with the street. Floor convectors can be placed in any place where there is a socket rated for the rated current of the device.

Step 3 For wall-mounted models, it is necessary to measure the distance from the floor to the window sill and select the height of the device in order to ensure the necessary distances for air intake from below the convector when mounting.

Step 4 When buying, it is important to clarify the type of heater. For wet rooms, you can use convectors with heating elements or a monolithic heater, models with a nickel thread are not suitable for this.

Step 5 Select the type of control knob. For a country house and a summer residence, models with mechanical control are more suitable, for a city apartment - with an electronic unit. In the presence of a voltage stabilizer, you can use electronic control in the country.

Step 6 Determine the list of necessary functions, as well as the shape of the device, its color and other external characteristics.

Note! When choosing, it is also important to take into account the manufacturer, its reputation and availability service centers– in case of minor malfunctions, it will be easier for you to find components and parts for repair.

Video - Choosing an electric convector