Oil heater or convector – what is the difference and what is more economical

When faced with the dilemma of heating your home on chilly days, many are unsure of the best solution. Should you opt for a convector or a radiator? Both types of heaters can effectively warm the air in a room and create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. However, before making a decision, it is important to thoroughly understand how they work and their unique characteristics.

Characteristics of oil radiators

• This heater is essentially a sealed container filled with mineral oil for heating. The heating process is done by a heating element. The metal body of the heater is designed with ribbing to maximize heat transfer and promote the circulation of air flows through convection.
• The device is equipped with a temperature regulator and can be powered by a household socket.
• There are models available with capacities ranging from 1 kW to 2.5 kW. One radiator can effectively heat an area of up to 25 m2. For larger spaces, multiple units can be used. The radiator has an impressive efficiency rate of 96%.
• The choice of this type of device is primarily based on its functionality and features.
• Some additional features that may be included in an oil heater are:
• An exclusive covering over the body, safeguarding individuals from potential burns.
• A built-in fan, enabling quicker distribution of heated air throughout the area.
• An advanced tilt sensor that automatically shuts off the heater’s power if it detects any tilting or accidental falls.
• A programmable timer that allows precise control over the heater’s start and stop times.

Oil radiator for wall mounting

Radiators are produced in the following options:

• standing on the floor;
• placed on a tabletop;
• mounted on the wall.

The initial models on the inventory have a unique handle and small wheels for convenient movement within the living space.

Technical parameters of convectors

This particular device is a small housing that has openings located at both the top and bottom. Its main function involves the movement of cold air through a spiral heater that is built into the device. This air is then heated and directed upward through the ventilation openings towards the ceiling. The power output of this device can range from 500 to 2500 W, and its level of efficiency is able to reach an impressive 98%.

Based on how they are positioned, there are three different types of convectors:

• floor-mounted;
• wall-mounted;
• baseboard.

Every one of them comes with a thermostat that enables precise regulation of the room’s air temperature.

Comparing convector and oil radiator

Which is superior, a convector or an oil radiator?

In order to make the optimal decision when selecting a heater, it is essential to compare numerous factors, beginning with the level of comfort and the cost-effective operation.

Comfort

Both types of heaters operate silently and do not emit any unpleasant smells while heating. Some models come with a programmable mode and incorporate features such as automatic startup and shutdown.

What is crucial is that heat distribution is not even during the air dispersal process – there can be a temperature difference of up to 10°C between the floor and the highest point of the room. Additionally, using a convector heater in dusty rooms will result in the dispersal of sand particles and other debris throughout the space, which can be unpleasant.

Cost-effectiveness

Before making a decision between an oil heater and a convector, it is important to consider the thermal inertia feature associated with the former. This means that it takes a certain amount of time for the heat carrier to reach its desired temperature and to cool down again.

In summary:

• Heating of the medium begins after a delay once the heating unit is turned on.
• The device retains its heat output for a significant period of time after it is switched off.
• As a result, the radiator consumes approximately 25% more energy from the power grid compared to a convector.

However, it is worth noting that a radiator is capable of maintaining a higher air heat output than a convector.

The room is heated more quickly by the radiator.

In contrast, the convector is naturally more cost-effective and its lifespan is designed to be longer, up to two decades. On the other hand, microcracks can develop on the body of oil heaters, leading to leaks and a shorter lifespan of no more than ten years.

Compactness

There are options to choose between floor and wall-mounted versions for oil radiators and converters, although the size of the wall-mounted versions tends to be smaller in general. If you are looking for a portable heater for temporary use, it’s important to consider the weight of the product. Convectors, in comparison, typically weigh half as much and can be easily maneuvered between different rooms.

Safety

Medium-priced heaters come with built-in voltage stabilizers to protect the device from fluctuations in electricity. These heaters also have sensors that prevent the device from overheating and automatically shut it down in critical situations.

Cheap category radiators, on the other hand, do not have any protective features, so they should only be used with continuous monitoring.

The convectors’ surface temperature reaches about 60°C, making it virtually impossible to get burned. However, the metal body of the radiator can heat up to 85°C, which poses a high risk of injury if there’s no protective cover. This is especially important if there are children in the house.

Environmental friendliness

Based on this crucial criterion, heaters are equally secure for the well-being of consumers. Dust that accumulates on the surface is not subjected to elevated temperatures. When the device is heated, no volatile toxic inorganic compounds, found in the paints and varnishes that coat its surface, are emitted.

Convectors have the potential to emit dust particles, which can trigger allergic reactions.

On the other hand, oil radiators have a distinct advantage as they have lower convection rates, meaning they are less likely to disperse organic and inorganic micro-particles into the surrounding environment.

Heating large areas

To warm up a spacious room, multiple oil-fired radiators will be necessary, with each one requiring its own power outlet.

One advantageous feature of these heaters is their ability to be combined into a single heating system. The array of devices is equipped with a rheostat, which helps to reduce electricity consumption.

Cost and durability

Convectors usually have a lifespan of twenty to twenty-five years. These devices are typically reliable but may require occasional repairs. Oil radiators, on the other hand, can develop leaks after several years (usually up to 10 years) due to microcracks in the body. Unfortunately, once these radiators experience such a breakdown, they cannot be repaired, and replacement devices need to be purchased.

Electrolux oil radiator

The price of Electrolux oil radiators varies depending on the brand and performance of the specific unit. On average, oil heaters tend to be more affordable compared to units with similar power and functionality. Keep in mind that well-known brands may come with a higher price tag, while cheaper alternatives might not last as long.

In situations where solid fuel or gas boilers are not available, consumers often opt for portable electric heaters to warm their homes, cottages, or apartments. When choosing a device, it’s important to consider the unit’s efficiency in relation to energy costs. By understanding the unique features of each type, it’s possible to find a device that perfectly suits the owner’s needs.