The realm of home heating presents a practical decision: convection heater vs infrared. Energy efficiency is a significant attribute when selecting a heating solution. Consumer Reports offers comparative data on performance and cost. Room size directly influences the effectiveness of both heating technologies, making it a crucial variable. Ultimately, understanding the nuances between convection heater vs infrared can lead consumers to an informed decision.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Elite Patio Heating – Bromic Heaters , from the video titled Why should I pick an infrared radiant heater over a convection heater? .
Convection vs. Infrared: Heater Showdown! Which Wins?
Choosing the right space heater can be tricky. Two popular types are convection heaters and infrared heaters. The best choice for you depends on understanding how they work and their pros and cons. This article will explore the differences between a convection heater vs infrared heater.
Understanding Convection Heaters
Convection heaters warm a room by circulating air. They heat the air, which then rises and is replaced by cooler air, creating a continuous cycle.
How Convection Heaters Work
- The heater warms the air through a heating element.
- Warm air rises because it is less dense than cool air.
- Cooler air moves in to replace the rising warm air.
- This process continues, gradually heating the entire room.
Types of Convection Heaters
- Forced-Air Heaters: Use a fan to circulate warm air quickly.
- Oil-Filled Radiators: Heat oil, which then radiates heat into the air.
- Baseboard Heaters: Installed along baseboards, creating a natural convection current.
Advantages of Convection Heaters
- Effective for heating entire rooms: They distribute heat throughout the space.
- Generally less expensive to purchase: The technology is well-established and widely available.
- Some models are very quiet: Oil-filled radiators, for example, operate silently.
Disadvantages of Convection Heaters
- Can take longer to heat a room: The entire air volume needs to be heated.
- Heat can be unevenly distributed: Warm air rises, leading to warmer ceilings and cooler floors.
- May dry out the air: The heating process can reduce humidity levels.
Understanding Infrared Heaters
Infrared heaters use infrared radiation to directly heat objects and people in their path, similar to how the sun heats the earth.
How Infrared Heaters Work
- The heater uses a heating element to generate infrared radiation.
- This radiation travels through the air and heats any solid object it encounters.
- The objects then radiate that heat back into the room.
Types of Infrared Heaters
- Quartz Heaters: Use quartz tubes to produce infrared radiation.
- Ceramic Heaters: Utilize ceramic elements for heat generation.
- Halogen Heaters: Employ halogen lamps to emit intense infrared heat.
Advantages of Infrared Heaters
- Heats quickly: You feel the warmth almost instantly.
- More energy efficient for spot heating: Focuses heat on specific areas or individuals, avoiding wasted energy.
- Doesn’t dry out the air: No air circulation means less moisture is removed.
Disadvantages of Infrared Heaters
- Not as effective for heating entire rooms: The heat is directional and diminishes with distance.
- Can be a fire hazard if objects are placed too close: Precautions are important.
- Only heats objects in its direct path: Shadows mean no heat.
Key Differences: A Comparative Table
To further clarify the difference between a convection heater vs infrared heater, consider this summary:
| Feature | Convection Heater | Infrared Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Method | Warms the air, which then circulates | Warms objects directly with radiation |
| Heating Speed | Slower | Faster |
| Area Heated | Entire room | Specific areas or objects |
| Energy Efficiency | Lower for spot heating, better for whole-room heating | Higher for spot heating, lower for whole-room heating |
| Air Dryness | Can dry out the air | Doesn’t dry out the air |
| Safety | Generally safer | Requires more caution due to direct heat |
| Cost | Often less expensive | Can be more expensive |
Choosing the Right Heater for Your Needs
Selecting between a convection heater vs infrared heater depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Consider these factors:
- Room Size: For larger rooms, a convection heater may be more effective.
- Heating Needs: If you need quick, focused heat, an infrared heater is a better choice.
- Energy Consumption: For spot heating, an infrared heater is often more efficient. If you primarily want to heat a single room, look for models that are more efficient at whole-room heating.
- Budget: Convection heaters are generally more affordable.
- Safety Considerations: Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines, regardless of the type of heater. Consider features like tip-over shut-off and overheat protection.
Convection vs. Infrared Heater FAQ
Hopefully, our article has shed light on the convection vs. infrared heater debate. Here are some common questions we receive.
What’s the biggest difference between convection and infrared heaters?
Convection heaters warm the air, which then circulates to heat the room. Infrared heaters, on the other hand, directly heat objects and people in their path, similar to the sun. This fundamental difference in how they transfer heat greatly impacts their efficiency and suitability for different situations.
Is a convection heater or infrared heater cheaper to run?
It depends. Infrared heaters can be more efficient for spot heating because they directly warm you, not the entire room. However, for consistently heating a large space, a modern, energy-efficient convection heater might be more cost-effective if properly insulated.
Are infrared heaters safer than convection heaters?
Both types of heaters have safety concerns if used improperly. Convection heaters can pose a burn risk if touched while in operation. Infrared heaters, while not heating the air as much, can still get very hot, so maintaining a safe distance is important.
Which is better for someone with allergies, a convection heater vs infrared heater?
Infrared heaters might be preferred as they don’t rely on air circulation to spread heat. Convection heaters can potentially stir up dust and allergens as they heat the air and cause it to circulate throughout the room. However, a convection heater with a good filter can mitigate this issue.
So, are you feeling warmer and wiser about the convection heater vs infrared debate? Hopefully, you’re now equipped to pick the perfect heater to keep you cozy! Stay warm!