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How Electric Radiators Work

How Electric Radiators Work

When it comes to upgrading your central heating system, electric radiators have become an increasing popular option. This is because they offer several advantages over traditional central heating systems like gas central heating, oil-filled radiators, and night storage heaters.

In this guide, we’ll explore the following topics to help you understand electric radiators:

1. How do electric radiators work?

2. The UK’s most award-winning electric radiator: the NEOS

3. Why choose the NEOS?

How Do Electric Radiators Work?

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Electric heaters and radiators function through a core heating element, typically composed of conductive metal. When electricity is supplied to this element, it generates heat, transforming electrical energy into thermal energy. This element heats the cold air, or sometimes a heat-retaining core which stores and subsequently releases heat. At this juncture, it’s useful to note the two primary heating methods employed—convection and radiant heat. Convection heating works by circulating warm air around the heating element. As the air heats up, it rises and cooler air replaces it, setting up a continuous cycle that heats the room. In contrast, radiant heat bypasses the air, directly transferring heat to objects and people via electromagnetic waves.

To manage this heating process, a built-in thermostat toggles the resistive heating element on and off, maintaining the temperature. Most electric radiators are encased in mild steel or high-grade plastic, providing durability and aiding in heat diffusion. Unlike traditional radiators with gas central heating, if you choose the NEOS Electric Radiator, you benefit from an aluminium casing that is 2.9 times more thermally conductive than other materials, improving heat distribution.

Various types of electric radiators and heaters cater to different needs. Dry electric heaters are lightweight and heat up rapidly but don’t hold onto the heat for long periods. Other options such as oil-filled radiators heat the oil, and stay warm while the oil stays heated. The latest development is the smart electric radiator, equipped with programmable timers, Wi-Fi connectivity, and smartphone-controlled settings. These features provide heightened control and often greater energy efficiency.

Thermostatic controls

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Advanced thermostatic controls are a staple in modern electric heating and radiators, as well as some gas central heating systems. These controls permit users to set heating schedules, and some models even offer smart capabilities for remote adjustment space heating, via a smartphone app. Historically, electric radiators have been less efficient than gas or oil central heating systems. However, technological progress has created models which are now more efficient; for instance, programmable thermostats and timers minimise energy consumption and costs. At Trust, we provide a range of thermostat options to fit your specific needs.

Safety features

To enhance safety, many of today’s electric radiators come with safety features like overheat protection—which automatically shuts off the radiator if it overheats—and child-lock settings to avoid unintended adjustments. These enhancements contribute to the versatility, safety, and rising efficiency of electric radiators, making them a compelling choice for heating individual rooms or entire homes

The UK’s most award-winning electric radiator: the NEOS

While other electric heating systems on the market the NEOS Electric Radiator stands out for several reasons.

1. Aluminium Casing

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Unlike most electric radiators that typically utilise mild steel or high-grade plastic for their casing, the NEOS sets itself apart by employing an aluminium casing. This recyclable aluminium is not only environmentally friendly but also offers superior thermal conductivity—it’s 2.9 times more conductive than mild steel. This enhanced conductivity enables the NEOS to heat up your room faster than other electric radiators or heating systems on the market. Because aluminium is more efficient at transferring thermal energy, the NEOS is also more energy-efficient, which can help to lower your heating bills over time. Additionally, aluminium is lightweight, making the NEOS easier to install than heating systems with heavier casings like those made from steel.

2. Soapstone Core

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In contrast to ceramic core radiators, the NEOS Electric Radiator is uniquely equipped with a unique soapstone core to embed the heating element. Soapstone is a non-porous material known for its incredible durability and high heat capacity. These characteristics allow the soapstone to retain heat for extended periods, thus making it an energy-efficient choice for your electric heating in system.

The durability of soapstone also gives us the confidence to offer a generous 25-year guarantee on the NEOS, which is significantly longer than the industry standard for electric radiators and other central heating system elements. In essence, the soapstone core contributes to both the reliability and energy efficiency of the NEOS.

3. Quadvex Convection

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One of the standout features of the NEOS Electric Radiator is its patented Quadvex Convection technology. This comprehensive heating solution employs four distinct points of convection to generate more heat and ensure that your room heats up both rapidly and efficiently. The four points are as follows:

Serpentine Convection

the first point of convection is the serpentine convection. As the name suggests, a winding motion of warm air rises through the radiator. This motion allows the soapstone core to be in contact with the hot air for longer, improving the efficiency of heat distribution in the room.

Cool-Wall Technology

The second point of convection is the cool wall technology. This innovative feature reduces the radiator’s wall temperature, ensuring that the wall it is mounted on doesn’t absorb valuable heat output. This is where other heaters lose 40% of their generated heat.

Dual Convection

The third and fourth convection point. Here, the front panel of the radiator creates two separate airflow pathways are used for circulating the warm air, ensuring a more even spread of heat across various areas of the room. Traditional radiators only contain one set of flutes, hence why ours is doubled.

How do they work together?

These individual points of convection work in harmony, optimising thermal energy distribution with minimal energy usage. Unlike traditional heating systems that may rely solely on a single convection method, the Quadvex system adopts a multi-faceted approach to circulate warm air more uniformly. As a result, you not only enjoy a consistently heated space but also benefit from reduced heating bills thanks to the system’s high energy efficiency and affordable running costs.

Why Choose the NEOS Electric Radiator?

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From lower running costs to a reduced carbon footprint, the NEOS Electric Radiator stands out as a superior choice in today’s range of heating options. Unlike traditional systems such as gas boilers, storage heaters, and panel heaters, the NEOS brings advanced features like its patented Quadvex Convection technology to the forefront, establishing itself as one of the most energy-efficient and effective modern electric radiators.

  • Efficiency and Technology: The NEOS Electric Radiator is renowned for its efficiency, significantly lowering energy bills and benefiting the environment. Its integration of smart controls and smartphone connectivity enhances user experience and optimises energy use, making it a standout choice for the eco-conscious consumer looking to save money and save energy.

  • Design and Safety: The NEOS combines sleek design with ease of use and easy installation - some customers opt for diy installation. Safety is paramount, with features like overheat protection ensuring a risk-free heating experience for families.

  • Durability and Versatility: Built to last, the NEOS comes with a 25 year warranty, a testament to its durability and quality. Its versatility extends to various settings, from residential homes to commercial spaces, delivering consistent and efficient heating.

To discover more about how the NEOS can transform your home’s warmth, why not download our free brochure?

Chloe Talbot author image

Chloe Talbot

Marketing Executive

Chloe has a deep passion for blogs, research, and electric heating. She is also currently working towards a Master's Degree in Marketing, which is enhancing her research and writing skills. This growing expertise allows her to provide our customers with the best information to make informed heating decisions.

Meet the Team | More Blogs from Chloe

Tags: General Guides, Understanding Heating.

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A Guide To Electric Radiators

If you are considering electric heating/electric radiators, then this guide tells you everything you need to know. Discover this modern, sustainable and economical method of heating that gives you complete control and comfort. Download Free Guide now.

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