We are pleased to provide answers to some of the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on a wide variety of our services. For additional information on HVAC, heating, cooling, air quality and more please browse our website or contact us.
6 Types of Heaters to Keep You Warm This Winter
Of course, we all know what a heater does, it’s pretty self explanatory. However, you probably didn’t know that there are many different kinds of heaters, many more than are listed below, actually. In order to find the right heater for your home, apartment, public space, etc, it’s probably appropriate to learn about the differences and the specific purposes of each.
Radiant Heaters
Although radiant heating has been widespread overseas, especially in Asian countries, it has only recently started to make headway in the United States. A radiant heater actually heats objects, instead of just warming the air like many heaters do. It heats the floor instead of the ceiling, making the floor the primary source of heat. Radiant heaters perform efficiently and effectively in warehouses, garages, storerooms, etc.
Electric Heaters
Electric heaters score better than the rest of these heaters on efficiency tests, as they are 100% efficient in converting heat from electricity. Coal or oil-generated heaters convert only 30% of the energy to electricity. Apart from this, the major advantage of using an electric heater is that it doesn’t cause any health hazard, and there is less of a chance of the heater exploding or causing a fire.
Non-Electric Heaters
When it comes to keeping warm indoors, most of us prefer an electric heater. For outdoor areas though, non-electric heaters seem to be the best. It is best to avoid using heaters which use kerosene, liquid propane or natural gases for indoor heating purpose. One major reason is they reduce air quality and secondly, they produce carbon monoxide which is harmful for our health. Wood burning and patio heaters are exclusively used outdoors, as they are attractive and inexpensive, as well.
Natural Gas Heater
Also known as the LPG heaters, they comes in various models, and depending on your requirements you can select the type from a wide range. Natural gas heaters are most ideal for heating large areas, as they heat the air, not just objects.
Kerosene Heaters
Kerosene heaters or paraffin heaters are mainly used for supplemental heat, though they are beneficial for various reasons. They are used as an emergency source of heat when the electricity goes out, and they are also very portable. Surprisingly though, they are good for heating large areas.
Wood-Burning Space Heaters
With gas prices going up, a wood burning heater has definitely increased in popularity. Add the fact that it has some old-world charm, and it’s easy to see why it’s a frequent choice. They are very efficient and safely warm an entire area without any burden on your electric bill. The only catch is that you must have a chimney system. It’s important to note that a wood burning heater is more efficient than a regular fireplace.