Heaters

About Heaters

In general, a heater is a device that can warm up an area. Modern heating solutions include a range of devices in virtually numerous types, sizes, and styles.  

Central heating and cooling systems comprise several units connected with the main power source, typically located in a basement, machine room, or attic. Their role is to distribute the created heat throughout the building. The systems are powered prevalently by electric energy or gas, although alternative sources are also an option. 

Portable models are commonly used as a secondary or supplementary source of heat. 

Application

Conventional heaters are typically designed for residential and limited commercial use - houses, apartment complexes, offices, retail spaces, and more. 

Types

Electric Heaters

Electric heaters are a low-maintenance option, easy to use, affordable to buy, and perfect for heating small spaces. They come in three essential types: radiant, fan-forced, and convection heaters. 

• Electric fan heaters: Electric fan heaters are cost-effective, convection-type personal units that use fans to spread hot air around the room. 
• Electric infrared heaters: Radiant heaters target people and objects instead of heating the air alone. They come as wall panel units and portable heaters, suitable for indoor and outdoor use. 
• Oil column heaters: A popular choice in Kiwi homes, these units are characterised by slow cool-down and silent operation. Some models use fans for improved performance. 
• Micathermic: Mica heaters got their name from the heating element covered by mica stone sheets. They are a safe and silent option, able to warm a spacious area quickly and efficiently.
• Ceramic: Available in personal and tower versions, ceramic heaters feature an attractive panel as a heat distribution element. They can easily blend into most interior decor schemes.
• Electric baseboard heaters: These units heat the air by convection. They typically require a permanent connection to the local electrical system of the building, but portable versions are also available.  
• Kickspace heaters: So-called toe-kick heaters are perfect for use in areas with limited floor space. They are equipped with a motorised fan that distributes the hot air.  
• Electric floor heaters: Electric floor heaters deliver evenly distributed heat across the room. They are best to install during the construction phase. 
• Electric fireplaces: Radiant heating units use electric simulation to mimic a real fire.
• Personal portable heaters: Mini heaters are ideal as an alternative source of heat in small rooms. They typically connect to the electrical outlet or USB slot and make an excellent option for use as supplemental office heaters.

Gas Heaters

Natural gas heaters and furnaces are available in a range of sizes, from portable personal units to large systems. Their operation modes are also diverse and include wall heaters, blue flame, vented, vent-free, and infrared models.

Gas-powered models can be flued or unfluted. Flued models are fixed and vented outside through an exhaust pipe. Unflued gas heaters are independent and portable, suitable for both indoor and outdoor heating. 

Heat Pumps

Heat pump systems are designed to take advantage of temperature differences between environments. Based on the operation mode, they are divided into three principal groups:

• Air to air: This type works by transmitting external air inside. It can be ducted or portable, while most units are capable of both heating and cooling. 
• Underwater/Underground: Underwater heat pumps employ deep water sources as a medium for heat exchange. Higher, more stable in-depth temperatures allow these pumps to be efficiently used in extreme climate conditions. 
• Ground-source heat pumps: Similarly to the water-based models, geothermal heat pumps use constant underground temperatures to heat or cool structures more efficiently. 
• Hybrid: This type is based on alternative power sources, such as solar energy. Gas-fired heat pumps are also an option.

Infrared Heaters

Infrared models emit radiant heat, focusing it on the objects in front, which absorb and re-radiate it further. The warmth produced that way lasts longer and creates a comfortable sensation.

• Far infrared: Gentle heating, suitable for an extensive range of applications.
• Longwave infrared: Strong heat radiation, effective from a longer distance.  
• Medium wave infrared: Medium-strength heating with a good balance between intensity and longevity.
• Shortwave / Near-infrared: High-intensity infrared heaters, ideal for use outdoors. 

Radiator Heating

Radiator heaters are a reliable heating solution that provides steady results fit for any room in the house. They come in a plethora of styles, from classic to designer models, including convenient bathroom towel rails. Radiators are divided into three basic types: plumbed, dual-fuel, and electric. 

• Plumbed: Typically combined into a hot water heating/circulation system and connected with a boiler. 
• Electric: Independent, electrically-powered models, ideal for use as a supporting source of heat.
• Dual Fuel: Functional combination of plumbed and electric design that can be attached to the central heating and cooling system.

Things to Consider Before Buying

The crucial thing to consider is the right type. In general, convection heaters are more suited for heating larger spaces such as open-plan living areas, while radiant models excel in the rapid warming of small spaces. Units with an internal fan are ideal as portable solutions for small rooms. 

The size of the space also affects the strength needed to keep it adequately warm. The rule of thumb is 100 watts of heating power per square meter. However, that doesn’t apply to every model - other factors such as technology and indoor environment should also be taken into account. It’s best to choose a reliable supplier who can advise correctly and make a proper calculation. 

Another important thing to consider is energy efficiency. Models equipped with energy-saving modes, adjustable thermostats, and programmable timers are typically a better choice for minimising power consumption and, subsequently, the bills. 

Noise levels differ a lot between different heater types. Some models produce minimum noise or no sound at all.

Safety can be a major concern, particularly for families with children and pets buying portable units Cool-to-touch, safety thermostat cut-out, shockproof body surface, overheat protection and automatic switch-off are some of the features to look for. Other convenient additions include instant heating, temperature and heat control, cool-touch handles, long heating hours, remote control, WiFi connectivity, and wide-angle oscillations.

Using a heater in combination with a dehumidifier can make the space warmer and dryer, preventing condensation or cold draughts in the winter months. On the other hand, using a humidifier can avert issues that come with air being too dry, which can prove significant for users with specific health concerns.