How to choose a micathermal heater: an overview of the types and tips for choosing

Save money with an infrared heater

Until now, many consumers are distrustful of heating devices that use infrared radiation. The reason for this is that today not all of our fellow citizens were able to get acquainted with the features of these modern household devices.

The main difference between wall and floor infrared heaters is the absence of disadvantages that are typical for other electric heaters. These devices do not waste time heating the air, infrared rays are directed exclusively at objects located in the room.This equipment also has its advantages:

• possibility of installation in any place;
• minimum power consumption;
• the minimum time required to warm up the room;
• do not dry out the air in the room;
• do not create any noise during operation;
• high fire safety.

Since modern wall-mounted infrared heaters are quite expensive, low-quality fakes are often found among them. In order not to end up in such an unpleasant situation, experts recommend that economical owners, and not only when buying, give preference to models from manufacturers with a well-known reputation.

Which heater is best?

The most common version of home heating devices today is electric heaters, which can be found not only in city apartments, but also in country cottages. The main reason why most buyers choose this particular technique is the simplicity and efficiency in operation.

Keeping in mind that basic heating often fails to cope with its function in winter, only by resolving the issue with an additional heat source, the owner can be sure that until the very spring his house will be warm and comfortable.

In order to choose the right economical model of a heating device, it does not hurt the buyer to learn about the basic principles of operation that are used in modern models of heaters:

• forced circulation;
• natural gravity;
• combined coolant transfer system;
• heat radiation.

Every year, new, more functional models of heaters appear on the market, in the design of which manufacturers add humidification, filtration and purification systems.

In principle, you can buy the most budgetary model of a fan heater, because even he will be able to solve the most common tasks in everyday life - warm up the room, dry the walls in the bathroom, dry the freshly washed clothes.

Size and dimensions

It is quite logical to assume that the greater the power of the heater, the larger its overall dimensions will be.

Note, however, that in many models this only changes the width. But the height and thickness remains unchanged

This is a very important point when placing the heating on the wall and embedding it into other design elements.

At the same time, from leading manufacturers, even with the same power, you can always choose how:

low and very wide, for large windows or stained-glass windows

and vice versa - high and narrow in small rooms

For example, here are two models of the same power of 2 kW, but what is the difference in the width of the case. Which one do you think will heat better?

Micathermal heater: principle of operation, advantages and disadvantages

Micathermal heater belongs to the group of infrared heaters, the principle of operation of which is absolutely different from the operation of other heaters (oil, convector, etc.). The essence of the device is to transfer heat not to the air, but to objects and people in the room.

The design of the device is represented by a metal (not always) box, in which special plates are located, coated on both sides with a thin layer of mica. They carry out the function of heating, sending heat waves into the room.

Manufacturers note that almost the entire efficiency of the device is "spent" on heating by transferring heat to surrounding objects and people, and only a small part of it (about 20%) warms the air around the device.

By the way, there is no coolant in the micathermal heater as such, so the owners of the device do not face the problem of wear of this element and, accordingly, unnecessary costs.

Micathermal heater, of course, has a number of advantages, among which it is worth noting:

Profitability. The device significantly saves electricity, which is quite possible, because the room is heated very quickly (usually 15-20 minutes is enough for this). In addition, a special frost protection system is built into the device. It is activated at the moment when the air temperature in the room reaches a critical level of 0 degrees.

Micathermic heater

Safety

Even with prolonged use during the day, the outer surface of the device does not overheat (the maximum possible temperature is 60 degrees), which makes it absolutely safe not only for adults, but also (most importantly) for children.
The ability to store oxygen. Heating devices such as this one do not use oxygen during operation.

Thus, the air in the heated room does not dry out. This is important for people suffering from diseases of the respiratory system.
Noiselessness. Users note the absolute noiselessness of the device, respectively, the micathermal heater can be used at night and even in the children's room.
Compactness.Due to its small size and weight, the device is very popular among housewives and people with disabilities.
Versatility. It is noteworthy that the device has become very popular not only in everyday life, but also in public institutions: hospitals, kindergartens, etc. It can even be used to heat animals: it will effectively cope with its task without causing absolutely no harm.

It is worth noting one design feature: it has an insignificant width and, moreover, can be mounted on the wall, which is especially important for owners of small apartments, in which every meter counts.

The device is safe and does not dry the air

But, as in any other device, here, too, it was not without a “fly in the ointment”. Firstly, the space that the heater can cover is limited to a distance of several meters. Accordingly, the farther you are from the device, the less heat you feel.

Secondly, the mesh surface of the device strongly "attracts" dust particles, which, accumulating, become a source of an unpleasant burning smell when the heater is heated.

Criteria for choosing a heating device

When choosing a heating device, the following parameters must be considered:

• the shape of the room, the presence of a central heating system;
• expected frequency of use;
• heated area, number of windows and doors, the presence of cracks and drafts;
• the presence in the heating device of the necessary functions;
• safety of use.

The pros and cons of heaters depend on their performance characteristics.In order for the air temperature in the room to be comfortable, you should choose the right heating device in accordance with its power. In general, 1 kW of electrical energy is required to heat 1 m2 of a room. The calculation takes into account the quality of thermal insulation. Heaters dry the air. With prolonged use, the room should be ventilated periodically.

Variety of heaters

Selecting the required power of the device

When choosing a heating device, you should consider the power of the device. It is influenced by the wavelength of the thermal radiation used. The mikathermal heater can operate in the range of short, long or medium waves.

This parameter affects the specifics of the use of heating devices:

• Long-wave structures are designed for heating residential buildings, offices and industrial buildings.
• The temperature of equipment operating in the short wave range can reach 100 degrees. It is not recommended for use in apartments. It is mainly used for heating production workshops and semi-open street buildings.
• With the help of medium-wave emitters, individual houses, apartments and offices are heated.

Scheme of operation of an infrared heater in large rooms

What is a mikathermic heater

These devices can be considered a novelty in the market of heaters. They appeared thanks to developments in the field of space technology. The basis of the mikathermic device was an innovative heating element. Its feature is the use of mica, so this equipment is also called mica.

To date, there are two varieties of such a heating element, respectively, and two types of heaters.

The micathermal heater uses an innovative synthetic mica heating element. This allows you to significantly increase the efficiency of the device.

Initially, the device was a nickel heating plate, covered on both sides with layers of mica. The latter performed two functions at once: they isolated the heating element and transferred heat. To increase the efficiency of the device, additional ones made of a special alloy were subsequently added to the main heating element. Thus, devices of the second generation have a multilayer structure.

In them, between the mica plates and the nickel heating element, the inner and outer additional layers are placed. The function of the first is the reflection of heat. Due to this, the most complete return of infrared radiation to the surrounding space is achieved. The second layer provides an increase in thermal flows. The result is a more efficient heating element.

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The action of mikathermic devices designed for space heating is directed at surrounding objects, which then transfer heat to the air mass.

Equipped with a mica heating element, the device transmits the most favorable radiation for people into the room, does not dry the air, does not burn dust

In 15 - 20 minutes after switching on, the heater reaches its operating temperature, electricity is consumed by almost three times less than oil heaters

The mikathermic heating device can be safely located not far from furniture made of natural wood, plastic trim, musical instruments that are sensitive to high temperatures.

Micathermic indoor heater

Arguments in favor of heaters with a mica element

High speed of reaching operating temperature

Environment-friendly temperature range

The principle of operation of the device is very simple. When the device is turned on, the nickel plate begins to heat up. It transfers heat to the mica plates. The latter, in turn, evenly distribute energy and transmit it in the form of infrared radiation to all nearby objects that begin to heat up. The process is very fast. After turning on the device, the effect of its operation begins to be felt after a few minutes.

A feature of mycatemic heaters is that they transmit most of the thermal energy, about 80% of the generated energy, in the form of infrared radiation. The remaining 20% ​​is accounted for by heating the air around the device. The latter value is quite small, so mica heaters can be safely attributed to devices that work by means of infrared radiation.

Micathermal heaters of the latest generation are characterized by a multilayer heating element. Additional layers located in front of the mica enhance the reflection of infrared rays and distribute them extremely evenly

Comparison with radiators and convectors

At electric convectors 80-90% thermal energy is released by heating the air. And only 10-20% - through infrared radiation.They quickly begin to heat the air in the room, but the objects in it (furniture, walls, etc.) remain cold for a long time.

Conventional infrared convectors give off a lot of heat energy through infrared radiation. They warm up the objects in the room well. But the air remains cold for a long time. Such devices are effective for maintaining temperature, not heating.

Oil heaters are more similar in characteristics to micathermal ones. They give off quite a lot of heat due to infrared radiation. Although most of it goes to convection. Their disadvantage is the long heating of the oil in the case.

Micathermal heaters are the middle option. they quickly begin to warm up the room, due to the relatively large convection, the air in it is not so cold. With the right choice of model, you can provide comfortable heating of the room.

Micathermal heater or convector - which is better

Everyone decides for himself which heating equipment suits him.

Micathermal heaters delight consumers with fast warm-up and high efficiency. But when choosing equipment, many people begin to doubt what to choose - a convector or an infrared heater. We recommend relying on your own feelings. Convectors heat the air, thereby contributing to the appearance of an unpleasant sensation - for some it may seem “burnt” or dry. As for infrared devices, they often cause headaches and a sensation of a cotton head.

Both devices have every right to exist. Convectors do not worsen well-being, working like classic radiators. But the heating is extremely long, its first results become noticeable after at least an hour, depending on the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.Micathermic mica heaters work noticeably faster, but can cause some discomfort.

If possible, we recommend that you purchase two devices at once and compare their effect, and then make the right choice.

Oil heater rating

This ranking features the top five 1500W electric home heaters. If you are looking for a good model for yourself, then you can watch a video about these devices and study their pros and cons.

RESANTA OMPT-7N - an object for 2,200 rubles. Consists of 7 sections, wheels, cord holder and handle for easy movement. There are three modes, mechanical control and built-in thermostat. There is protection against overheating.

Pros:

• budgetary;
• warms well;
• There is an indicator light on the power button.

Minuses:

unstable legs.

Ballu BOH/CL-07WRN

Pros:

• increased heat transfer;
• there is an anti-corrosion coating;
• holder for winding the cable.

Minuses:

• the walls are very hot;
• loud clicks.

Electrolux EOH/M-9157

Pros:

• unusual design;
• purified oil safe for humans is used;
• there is a handle for movement;
• simple control.

Minuses:

• short wire;
• a bright indicator light at night causes discomfort.

Timberk TOR 51.1507 BTX Blanco Aqua

Pros:

• there is a humidifier;
• clear settings panel;
• thoughtful form.

Minuses:

• small volume of water tank;
• crack.

Infrared heater is dangerous or not

Micathermal heaters are inherently infrared devices. Many doubt their safety and for this reason refuse to buy.We must admit that this is unreasonable.

If we compare the action of an oil heater and infrared, the difference is immediately evident. The first raises the temperature in the room, giving off heat to the surrounding air. It heats up, rises, cooled comes in its place.

Thus, the process of heating the room will last long enough until all the air present in it is heated. Infrared equipment works differently.

Radiation does not heat the air, but heats the surfaces to which it is directed. It can be large furniture, walls, floors and the like. They heat up very quickly and begin to release heat into the air.

It is clear that in this way the room will heat up much faster. But is infrared radiation safe for humans? Advertisers cite the Sun as an example and claim that it emits infrared rays, which are very useful for humans.

This statement is true only in the part that infrared radiation comes from the Sun. But we must understand that it has a completely different wavelength.

The diagram clearly shows the fundamental difference in the operation of conventional and infrared heaters. The latter heat objects located in front of them, evenly distributing heat throughout the room.

The main advantage of infrared heaters is that they transfer energy directly to the object with minimal energy dissipation. This is possible only for waves from the middle and short-wavelength part of the infrared spectrum.

For a person, the longest infrared wave is the safest. It turns out that an infrared heater can be not only useful, but also harmful.

It all depends on the characteristics of its radiating surface. From her so-called degree of blackness. The most severe harmful radiation comes from a heated black body.

If the source of infrared radiation is enclosed in a mica housing, the wavelength increases significantly. Synthetic material not only reduces the intensity of radiation, but also evenly distributes its flow over the entire surface.

Thus, the radiation emanating from the "correct" mikathermic heater is completely safe for humans. The equipment heats the walls and furniture in the room, which allows you to keep it warm for a long time.

It does not go away even when the room is ventilated. Like any other device, a mica heater can be safe and even beneficial for a person, or vice versa. It all depends on the correct choice of device.

Micathermal heaters are compact and lightweight. Such a device fits easily into the design of any interior.

What is a Micathermal Heater and how does it work?

So, the mikathermic heater is an innovative technology borrowed from the space industry. It is based on the ability of some materials to emit waves in the infrared range. Our sun "works" in the same range. As long as objects are under its rays, they heat up. As soon as they go into the shade, they cool down.

In the heaters that we are considering, the radiating element is plates made of a multilayer material coated with mica. It does not heat up itself, so you can safely touch the micanite without the risk of getting burned. Due to the special structure of the plates and the absence of heating, they practically do not wear out during operation.Micanites are enclosed in a metal case with a one-sided or two-sided grille. Heat from the heating elements is distributed almost instantly from the moment the appliance is turned on.

Scheme of the device of the mikathermic battery

A control unit is installed at the end of the device, which regulates the temperature. Expensive models are additionally equipped with an LCD display.

In micanites, upon contact with electrical energy, the process of reflection and isolation of thermal energy occurs, and the dielectric mica covering them transmits infrared radiation to the surrounding space.

Infrared heater: dangerous or not?

Micathermal heaters are inherently infrared devices. Many doubt their safety and for this reason refuse to buy. We must admit that this is unreasonable.

If we compare the action of an oil heater and infrared, the difference is immediately evident. The first raises the temperature in the room, giving off heat to the surrounding air. It heats up, rises, cooled comes in its place.

Thus, the process of heating the room will last long enough until all the air present in it is heated. Infrared equipment works differently.

Radiation does not heat the air, but heats the surfaces to which it is directed. It can be large furniture, walls, floors and the like. They heat up very quickly and begin to release heat into the air.

It is clear that in this way the room will heat up much faster. But is infrared radiation safe for humans? Advertisers cite the Sun as an example and claim that it emits infrared rays, which are very useful for humans.

This statement is true only in the part that infrared radiation comes from the Sun. But we must understand that it has a completely different wavelength.

The diagram clearly shows the fundamental difference in the operation of conventional and infrared heaters. The latter heat objects located in front of them, evenly distributing heat throughout the room.

The main advantage of infrared heaters is that they transfer energy directly to the object with minimal energy dissipation. This is possible only for waves from the middle and short-wavelength part of the infrared spectrum.

For a person, the longest infrared wave is the safest. It turns out that an infrared heater can be not only useful, but also harmful.

It all depends on the characteristics of its radiating surface. From her so-called degree of blackness. The most severe harmful radiation comes from a heated black body.

If the source of infrared radiation is enclosed in a mica housing, the wavelength increases significantly. Synthetic material not only reduces the intensity of radiation, but also evenly distributes its flow over the entire surface.

Thus, the radiation emanating from the "correct" mikathermic heater is completely safe for humans. The equipment heats the walls and furniture in the room, which allows you to keep it warm for a long time.

It does not go away even when the room is ventilated. Like any other device, a mica heater can be safe and even beneficial for a person, or vice versa. It all depends on the correct choice of device.

Micathermal heaters are compact and lightweight. Such a device fits easily into the design of any interior.

In addition to mikathermic devices, carbon heaters are among the popular infrared equipment, the recommended article is devoted to the principle of operation and varieties of which.

Electric current in heaters

Electric current is also life-threatening. Upon failure heating elementand, if it breaks down on the case, a life-threatening potential may also arise on the device case. To avoid electric shock, electrical enclosures must be grounded. In household appliances, the third, grounding contact of the plug is already connected to all current-carrying parts, so if the socket is grounded, the appliance case will also be grounded.

You also need to install RCDs - residual current devices. This is a switching protective device that trips in the event of a current leakage in the phase-zero circuit to the ground, which can occur both through the device case to the ground loop, or through the human body. It is worth installing even if you have a two-wire electrical network in the house without grounding.

Residual current device

Conclusion

As a means of space heating, a mikathermic heater has the right to life, quite a lot of homeowners perceive it better than traditional heaters. But the vast majority still does not seek to buy them, but uses other means. That is why this type of electric heaters has not received too much popularity.

Pupil (156), closed 10 months ago

since the effect is fast, it means the device will work less and consume less electricity.

Advantages of the micathermal novelty The micathermal heater has earned the attention of consumers due to its obvious advantages: Cost-effectiveness. Energy consumption is 30% lower than traditional appliances, and the heating efficiency is many times higher. In addition, the device has a function to protect the room from freezing.

If it is set in an unheated room, the heater will automatically turn on when the air temperature becomes critical, close to zero. Safety. Since even with prolonged use of the device, the body does not warm up above 60 degrees, there is no need to isolate the heater from children. Conservation of oxygen. With this type of heating, oxygen is not burned, which means that the humidity in the premises is not disturbed. A normal microclimate is maintained, so people do not experience problems with the respiratory tract, bronchial asthma does not worsen, and the likelihood of colds during the off-season is reduced. No noise. The operating device is absolutely silent, so it can be used in bedrooms, children's during a night's rest

In addition, the device has a function to protect the room from freezing. If it is set in an unheated room, the heater will automatically turn on when the air temperature becomes critical, close to zero. Safety.Since even with prolonged use of the device, the body does not warm up above 60 degrees, there is no need to isolate the heater from children. Conservation of oxygen. With this type of heating, oxygen is not burned, which means that the humidity in the premises is not disturbed. A normal microclimate is maintained, so people do not experience problems with the respiratory tract, bronchial asthma does not worsen, and the likelihood of colds during the off-season is reduced. No noise. The operating device is absolutely silent, so it can be used in bedrooms, children's during a night's rest.

Conclusions and recommendations for selection

In our opinion, the main disadvantage of mikathermic heaters is the price comparable to expensive convector models. Other disadvantages are not so significant, especially if you choose the right device for power. Here are some recommendations for this:

The old method of selecting a heat output of 100 W / 1 m² of area is not very appropriate here. Yes, a 2 kW appliance is enough to heat a 20 m² room, but the residents next to the heater will become hot and uncomfortable

Therefore, buy a product with switching modes.

When choosing, pay attention to the manufacturer's data. For example, for a 1.5 kW heater, the Polaris brand instruction indicates a room area of ​​24 m². Warning: in this case, the walls must be insulated.
Consider the features of the building and the purpose of heating

If the stone house is not insulated, then you can’t navigate according to the manufacturer’s characteristics - use the traditional calculation method. When heating a garage or workshop, a temperature of 20-24 ° C is not needed, you can take a heater of lower power.

Warning: in this case, the walls must be insulated.
Consider the features of the building and the purpose of heating. If the stone house is not insulated, then you can’t navigate according to the manufacturer’s characteristics - use the traditional calculation method. When heating a garage or workshop, a temperature of 20-24 ° C is not needed, you can take a heater of lower power.

In fact, the high-tech Mica-thermic heater differs little from other infrared "brothers" and inherits all the advantages and disadvantages. Against the background of other "innovations" like quartz panels, this product looks quite worthy. The best option is to combine electric heaters with another heating method - water or air. Then you are guaranteed to get the desired effect and be able to use energy sparingly.