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Doodlebuggers Fireplace, Grill & Outdoor BBB accredited business profile
BBB RATING: A+

Radiant and Convection Heat

The terms “radiant heat” and “convection heat” are common within the heating and fireplace industries when describing the way heat moves into a space.

Doodlebuggers Fireplace, Grill & Outdoor Store of Pensacola and Destin, Florida, would like to share a little about these two types of heat and how they apply to fireplaces.

Fireplace Cleaning Dentin, FLWhat is radiant heat?

Radiant heat radiates outward from the heated object or space. A wood-burning fireplace is a source of radiant heat because heat is generated in the firebox and then radiates out into the room.

Other common radiant heaters include appliances that heat with coils, forced-air and oil radiators, and radiant floor panels.

What is convection heat?

Convection heat (also called “convective” heat) is heat that is propelled into a space, often through a blower mechanism. A direct-vent gas fireplace with a blower is an example of convection heating.

All types of fan heaters, along with some water heaters and furnaces, are examples of convection heaters.

Which type of heat is better?

This is a common question for fireplace salespeople, installers and repair technicians. The answer is, there’s no “best” type of heat. The system that will provide you with the most comfort and enjoyment will be determined, in part, by the size and configuration of the area you wish to heat.

A gas fireplace with an efficient blower (convection heat) will send heat farther from the source than a radiant heater. This means that you’ll be able to heat a larger space and one with multiple corners and obstacles.

Wood fireplaces and other radiant heating units don’t blow warm air into a room. Rather, they create a high level of heat that spreads out from the source. Radiant heaters provide excellent heat when you’re near them, but they’re not ideal choices for large, obstructed spaces.

Another factor to consider is how well you tolerate blown heat. Some people find that blowing hot air causes problems with their noses, throats and sinuses. This tends to be more pronounced in regions where the air is generally very dry to begin with.

In the same way strong winds outside can pull humidity from the atmosphere, a convection heater can pull some of the humidity from the air inside a home or building. Many people aren’t bothered by this; others are and counter the effects by running a humidifier in the same area as the heating unit.

Radiant heaters, such as fireplaces and oil radiators, are hot to the touch and could cause injury to a young child or pet. Fireplace screens are good safety devices to keep kids and animals away from the high heat.

Gas Fireplace Maintenance Pensacola, FLRadiant or convection – which is the ideal heat for your home?

If you’re looking to add a heat source to your home, and if you’re thinking of a fireplace or heating stove, let the experts at Doodlebuggers help you make a choice that will bring you years of comfort, safety, efficiency and heat.

Visit one of our fireplace showrooms today to check out the latest models of gas and wood heating appliances and learn more about radiant and convection heating options.

Speak with a fireplace expert at 850-477-1151 in
Pensacola, FL, or at 850-243-0154 in the Destin, FL, area. You can also get in touch with our handy contact form.

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