Ceramic Convection Heaters

When it comes to supplementing the heat in your home, office, or workshop, there are many choices available. To make the best purchase possible, it is important to have accurate information about how different types of heaters work along with the safety and efficiency differences among them. This article discusses a relative newcomer - the ceramic convection heater.

What Are Ceramic Heaters?

Most space heaters fall into one of two categories: convection or radiant. Convection heaters, including those that have a ceramic heating element, heat air and blow it around a room. A ceramic convection heater works by using electricity to heat a ceramic plate connected to aluminum strips. A fan blows air across the strips, picking up the heat. Ceramic heaters are small, portable, and energy efficient. They are thought to provide a lot of heat relative to their size.

Safety Issues Related to Ceramic Convection Heaters

Convection heaters with a ceramic heating element are considered by some to be safer than other kinds of convection heaters. First, the ceramic heating element is self-regulating, which means it gets hotter or cooler depending on the surface temperature of the unit. A self-regulating heating element will generally stay cooler than traditional coils, and will produce heat at a consistent temperature. Secondly, ceramic convection heaters are usually cased in plastic that stays cool to the touch.

As is true generally about space heaters, ceramic heaters that are labeled as approved by Underwriters Laboratories means the product has undergone a rigorous safety evaluation. It is always always important to review and follow the detailed safety instructions specific to the model heater you purchase which can be found in the owner's manual.

What Are the Best Ceramic Heaters?

A review of product rating websites indicates that Lasko, Honeywell, and Holmes are popular among consumers who have bought ceramic convection heaters. Lasko offers four different types of ceramic heater and several models of each. They have three-year warranties and are approved by UL. Holmes has several safety features, such as tipping protection on their tower models. Honeywell has many compact models.