The increase in electricity tariffs makes the consumer turn to the most rational means of communication support. Traditionally, one of the most expensive consumption items is heating. Of course, specific indicators may vary depending on the system used. So, gas equipment is considered the most economical, and electrical equipment in almost all versions requires serious maintenance investments. This is also understood by manufacturers of heating units, who are trying to minimize financial damage during the operation of such devices. Significant advances in this direction are demonstrated by new-generation electric heaters. Cost-effective designs coupled with optimized heat distribution channels give every reason to expect a reduction in energy costs.
How is the efficiency of heaters evaluated?
In approaches to testing heaters for efficiency indicators, there is one caveat. The fact is that the power consumed is directly related to the heat transfer coefficient. This means that power consumption also determines the efficiency of the device. Despite this, peak power indicators, compared with the results of actual consumption, give an idea of how specific a model is energy efficient. For example, the ceramic wall heater due to its design provides the most efficient heating, but it can consume electricity in large volumes compared to simple oil units. The reverse situation is also quite possible - in which case models in the modern design execution unconditionally win. It is also worth noting that the energy consumption indicators in the claimed documentation for most manufacturers are very attractive. The only problem is that in practice official data are not always confirmed.
Model from Electrolux
Modification EOH / M-6209 is a good example of an economical oil heater, although it is not free from the disadvantages of many devices of this type. This is a massive almost 9 kilogram installation, which is characterized by a long warm-up, but also by high energy efficiency. During the period of gaining the optimum working condition, the electric heater power is 0.8 kW. Thus, the beginning of entering the functional state of this model is the most problematic because of the slow exit to sufficient temperature and high energy consumption.
However, after about 15 minutes, the unit corrects the impression of itself, showing the optimal ratio of power and thermal radiation. It is important to note one more pleasant nuance. The fact is that the radiator case of this unit is heated less, which reduces the risk of burns. Unfortunately, not all electric heaters of a new generation differ in such safety measures. Economical models are more likely to focus on heating efficiency, and this suggests a maximum shift of energy to external surfaces. But in the case of the Electrolux development, we can talk about a balanced heat distribution.
Model by Scarlett SC-2165
The Scarlett line also has many technological developments, one of which is the SC-2165 version. This model is part of a segment in which electric convectors with a new generation thermostat are presented. The user has the opportunity to set the temperature mode through the electronic panel. As for the direct heating function, then, as in the case with the modification from Electrolux, the device rather slowly enters the active mode of operation. For half an hour, the unit adds only 10 degrees, so in terms of speed this is not the best option.
On the other hand, after warming up, the unit also reduces the level of energy consumption - in this case, the optimal power is 0.9 kW. Few energy-saving heaters have such indicators, so the result is quite competitive. Especially if you take into account the effective system of distribution of thermal radiation.
Supra Model
The heater in the performance of ORS-09-MN is characterized by balanced indicators of heating speed and economy. As practice shows, the time to enter the peak mode of operation is associated with energy consumption. This is not to say that this device shows the best results of optimizing consumption, but the exclusion of prolonged heating is a significant advantage that rarely has a new generation of electric heaters. Cost-effective installations focus on attracting a thrifty customer who is ready to put up with inconveniences in operation. In turn, the version from Supra allows you to count on a balanced energy consumption, and on the convenience in using the equipment. During the full operating state, the unit consumes about 1.4 kW per hour. This is a relatively good result in terms of economy, but far from the best.
Model by Polaris
This is a low-cost solution of the PRE L 0715 series, representing a small, but functional and user-friendly heater. The model has a folding design, which also increases its ergonomics. It should be noted that the absence of complex mechanisms in the design is one of the most common rules by which electric heaters of a new generation are designed. Economy models, as a rule, are carried out in a traditional form factor, which also contributes to energy saving. However, the developers of Polaris took a different path and released an unusual product in terms of design, which affected the weak heating function - only 7 degrees in half an hour. On the other hand, self-heating brings the heater to a consumption rate of 0.9 kW per hour, and this corresponds to the energy efficiency of Scarlett's offer.
Reviews about oil electric heaters
Classical oil units are traditionally associated with high energy costs with large heat losses. According to users, this is not the best option in terms of security. For example, there were times when such a technique literally exploded, oiling the whole situation in the house. But these are almost isolated cases - at least modern products have a higher level of security. The quality of energy efficiency is also rising. Like electric convectors with a temperature regulator, oil heaters are increasingly equipped with digital control systems. As a result, users note the accuracy of temperature control through the thermostat.
Reviews of convector electric heaters
Convection models act as a kind of transitional link between aging oil devices and more advanced infrared heaters. Reviews of such models in terms of efficiency are quite restrained, since the strength of convection is still the intensity of heating. At the same time, an efficient electric heater from Scarlett confirms that rational energy consumption is available for such models.
Reviews about infrared electric heaters
A feature of models of this type is the thermal effect on objects, which, in turn, heat the air. Users of such devices note that they are convenient to operate, have an attractive design, as well as low noise. For example, a ceramic wall heater of this type may well be considered as an element of the interior, but with the addition of a useful function. In terms of energy efficiency, this is also a good option. In use, users can feel the heat even at the minimum power level. Again, the principle of targeted heat transfer to objects gives its advantages.
How much do energy-saving heaters cost?
The price range is very diverse and at the same time strictly segmented. The most affordable oil models can be purchased for 2-3 thousand rubles. When it comes to digital control equipment, the amount can increase up to 5 thousand. Convector models occupy the middle segment. These are functional and productive electric heaters of a new generation, the price of which can reach 7-8 thousand. The most expensive units belong to the category of infrared heaters - mid-level versions can be purchased for 10-12 thousand. But the cost does not increase the principle of energy storage, but the fact that in such devices the latest technologies are actively implemented. For example, the same controls and digital controls.
What else to consider in choosing?
Energy efficiency is only one of the criteria for evaluating a heater. It is advisable to take into account several operating parameters that will help to create a more complete picture of the model. For example, design, weight, type of control and principle of operation - these factors not only determine the convenience in maintenance and operation, but also leave their mark on the indicators of efficiency. For example, ceiling electric heaters with infrared radiation can be considered as an example of the most successful configuration of heat distribution. Such a unit does not need to be installed at peak power to get a comfortable temperature regime - accordingly, energy consumption will also be saved.
Conclusion
Focusing on a high level of energy efficiency of household appliances has recently become not only fashionable, but also profitable. But it is important to understand that the most economical electric heater in terms of the combination of operational indicators will provide benefits only under certain conditions of use. For example, in this case, the most impressive saving result was shown by the Electrolux modification EOH / M-6209. This heater is really effective in terms of optimizing energy costs , but only if it is used for a long time. If short-term heating is supposed to be 1-2 hours a day, then this option will be less productive compared to models that realize a quick exit to peak power.