You cannot choose one size of electric radiator that will fit n all conditions. Your choice of a radiator will depend on a number of factors. This can be the layout of the room and its size, and of course, your budget. Besides this an important attribute can be the energy efficiency of your chosen radiator. If you select one that is low-cost, you will not have made any savings in the long run, if the radiator has high running costs. Our intent in this article is to guide you about the features you need to look at while selecting a electric radiator that is the most energy efficient. If you are looking into buying an electric radiator please see Electric Heating Expert.
What is the Wattage You Need
Radiators can have a wattage of 600W, 1200 W, or 2000W and this needs to be considered when you go to buy one. Your choice can depend on a number of factors. These include:
* Size of room
* Type of windows and their number
* Number of doors
* Flooring type
* Having a heated room above or below
* Number of outside wallsA BTU calculator can help you find the right wattage for heating your room. BTU is British thermal Unit. If your calculations give you a wattage that is in between the wattages available, opt for the radiator with a higher wattage. Good radiators that are energy efficient will have sensors built in that will generate the right heat that can help in maintaining the ambient room temperature. So, even if you have chosen a radiator with a higher wattage, you will not waste energy.
Other energy efficient features that you should look for:
- Construction
The best electric radiators will have body completely constructed of metal, with aluminium being the one that is most popular. This popularity comes from its low weight, strength and its being a super conductor of heat, which allows it to heat up very quickly. As an alternate, you can choose a radiator with a steel body that needs to be galvanized and powder coated, as this will enable it to perform well. Units may be advertised as all-metal, but check the end panels and fascias, as they could be made of plastic. Plastic is used by manufacturers for some parts in order to reduce costs, but these models are not durable and the parts made of plastic will soon get discolored. A model that is all-metal must be checked for a scratch resistant coating. This will help your radiator to look pristine for as long as it works. You also need to ensure that the the electronics on your chosen radiator are interchangeable, so that the control panels can easily be replaced without having to buy a new radiator after your unit is past its warranty. Smooth surface on radiators can look pleasing, but the there is a reason why traditional boiler fed radiators have a ridged design. This design results in increased surfaces for heat exchange. So for optimal efficiency your electric radiator must have a ridged surface.
- Heat Output
The best radiators are those that give you heat both by radiation and convection. Ideally, your unit must have a number of ceramic plates and a sealed thermodynamic core. The heat generated will then be uniform, constant and give you the utmost comfort. This is a technical matter, but if your retailer is good, he can guide you in selecting the right model.
- Programmability
24/7 digital programming is included with electric radiators that are the most efficient. When you use this feature, you can set a precise heating schedule that conforms to your needs, so that you have the heat that you need, when and where it is required. It is a feature that can save you energy and allow you to have complete control over your heating. There is then no wastage of heat from heating rooms that are not occupied, or if you are away from home.