Micathermic heater or convector: what is better to choose

There is a wide range of heating equipment available in the market, all of which are capable of competing with each other. In this article, we will compare two types of heaters: the popular convector and a micathermic heater. We will discuss the features and drawbacks of each device to determine which one is the better choice.

What is a micathermic heater

• 80% of its capability is as an infrared device;
• 20% – as a convector.

It appears that this heater primarily emits infrared radiation and secondarily generates heat.

Some varieties of micathermic heaters come equipped with additional stands intended for the drying of small-sized laundry items, such as socks, scarves, gloves, and children’s clothing.

Attention! It is prohibited to dry any clothing items on the body of the heater itself. Failure to abide by this advice may result in a fire.

The main advantage of micathermic heaters is their low surface temperature. This allows the device to be safely used in households with young children without concern for their safety.

Construction

The device comprises a plate with a mica shell, containing a heating element. Mica, a natural material with unique properties, serves as an excellent heat and electrical insulator in various electrical appliances like soldering irons.

In the case of a micathermic heater, the plate is completely covered with mica, ensuring that the temperature of the heating equipment body does not exceed 60 degrees.

Even if the device is accidentally touched while in operation, the risk of burns or electric shocks is minimal.

The device’s design includes:

• protective housing;
• control panel;
• on/off button;
• stand with wheels and four rollers;
• A thermostat is employed to set the preferred temperature;
• A power regulator controls the power;
• An indicator panel exhibits valuable details pertaining to the operational condition of the machinery.

There are a variety of micathermic heaters available:

1. Single-sided models reflect infrared rays in one direction.
2. Double-sided units emit waves in both directions.
3. Cylindrical heaters feature a circular area of radiation.

Operating principle

Micathermic heaters utilize the same basic principle as the sun, emitting infrared rays that warm the surrounding objects. These rays are capable of penetrating up to 3 cm into the objects, with the depth of heating depending on their structure. Gradually, these warm objects release the accumulated heat into the air. For more detailed information on the operational principles of infrared heaters, please refer to the corresponding article.

It is worth noting that micathermic heaters are significantly more efficient in fulfilling their heating duties compared to other devices such as convectors and oil radiators.

In terms of heating a room, micathermic heaters employ two methods simultaneously: convention, although its contribution is minimal, and infrared radiation.

Technical characteristics

1. The power consumption of infrared heaters typically ranges from 1500-3000 W, although most models have a capacity of 2000 W.
2. There are two types of control for these heaters: mechanical or electronic. If possible, it is better to choose the electronic option, even though they may be more expensive. Electronic infrared heaters offer energy-saving features.
3. The number of modes available for infrared heaters.
4. Check if the infrared heater is equipped with a timer and remote control.
5. Infrared heaters have different directionality options, including unilateral, bilateral, and cylindrical.
6. Consider the dimensions of the infrared heater, as most devices have a rectangular shape designed for floor placement. However, there are exceptions for devices with circular directionality, which have a cylindrical shape.

Read also: learn about different types and variations of infrared heaters.

Advantages and disadvantages in operation

Like any other technology, micathermic heaters come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Let’s begin with the benefits of this technology:

1. Safety. The body of the heater only reaches a temperature of about 60 degrees Celsius, making it safe to use in various settings, including kindergartens.
2. Efficiency in quickly and effectively heating up rooms to the desired temperature – a characteristic of all infrared heaters.
3. Prevention of air dryness.
4. Portability and compactness. The heater can be easily moved from one room to another with the help of wheels. Its size allows it to fit in rooms of any size.
5. Energy-saving.

Despite these advantages, there are some downsides to consider:

1. The device may develop an unpleasant smell over time, especially if it has been inactive for a prolonged period. This odor is caused by dust accumulated on the body and heating element, which burns when the heater is turned on, resulting in a strong smell.
2. Electric heaters are known to be costly in terms of energy consumption.
3. Infrared heaters have the tendency to heat objects and furniture that are in close proximity more than others, similar to the way the sun works. This can potentially cause headaches and dizziness.

It is not advisable to place the heater near beds, particularly at the headboards. Prolonged exposure to a working heater can lead to heat stroke.

Convector heater

When people are considering purchasing a heating device, such as a micathermic heater or a convector, they often find themselves pondering which option is superior and which one will prevent that frustrating sensation of dissatisfaction in the long run.

What are conventions

According to physics textbooks, we understand that convection is a phenomenon in which warm air rises to the ceiling, cools down, and then descends back down to the floor due to its own weight. This process is continuous and many convectors operate based on this principle.

There are three distinct types of equipment that can be identified:

Each type possesses specific attributes, benefits, and drawbacks. However, they all share the same underlying principle of operation. We will examine one type – electric – as it is the only one capable of providing a fair competition to the micathermic heater.

Features of electric convectors

An electric convector is a type of heating device that is housed in a metal casing. The casing contains a tubular heating element or mineral oil, and the temperature is controlled by a thermostat. The casing also features slots at the bottom and top to promote effective heat circulation. Cold air enters the device through the lower slots, where it is then heated, and exits through the holes at the top. This design allows for efficient distribution of warm air. For a more comprehensive explanation of how an electric convector functions, please refer to the article on how electric convectors operate.

There are several advantages of such devices:

• Enhanced safety features
• Improved efficiency
• Quick and easy installation process
• Swift heating of the air in the room

When deciding between a thermostatic heater and an oil heater, it is important to consider your personal preferences. The latter is ideal for heating large areas for extended periods of time. On the other hand, a convector heater consumes less electricity and is deemed to be safer by experts.

Now, let’s discuss the drawbacks of convector heaters:

1. Higher electricity consumption
2. Decreased device efficiency over time due to a constant temperature difference
3. Noise produced during the heating or cooling process
4. Tubular electric heating elements cannot be replaced once they burn out, rendering the device unrepairable

Conclusion

When deciding between a micathermic heater and a convector, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Convector heaters heat the room by warming up the air, which can sometimes cause dryness. On the other hand, micathermic heaters operate using a different principle, focusing on heating nearby objects and furniture. However, it’s worth noting that prolonged exposure to an infrared device can potentially lead to headaches.

If you’re interested in learning more, you can also read our article on whether it’s better to use a convector or an oil heater.

While micathermic heaters are generally considered to be more efficient than convectors, as they can quickly raise the room temperature within 10-15 minutes, convectors may be more familiar to us due to their similarity to the classic radiator.