Convector

A convector is a type of heat transfer device that circulates heated air by natural convection, meaning the warm air rises and cooler air is drawn in to replace it. Typically, convectors consist of a heating element, often electric coils or hot water pipes, enclosed within a housing designed to facilitate airflow. They're commonly used for space heating in homes, offices, and other buildings, offering a relatively even distribution of warmth without forced air systems. The efficiency of a convector is influenced by factors such as the size of the heating element, the design of the casing, and the temperature of the heat source.

Convector meaning with examples

• During the winter months, the living room was heated by a wall-mounted convector, providing a gentle warmth that spread throughout the space, creating a cozy atmosphere. Its convection-based method avoided the blasts of air from forced air systems.
• The old apartment building used a central heating system, with individual convectors in each room to regulate the temperature. This system ensured each tenant could control their desired comfort level and adjust their heat.
• To improve energy efficiency, the homeowners replaced their old electric convectors with new models that featured adjustable thermostats. This allowed them to conserve energy by setting the temperature precisely.
• The antique store owner used small portable convectors strategically placed around the shop to maintain a comfortable environment for customers and prevent damage to delicate items from extreme temperatures.
• Despite the benefits, the homeowner knew that the convector's effectiveness was somewhat limited in very large rooms. For a vast area, a more powerful heating system, perhaps forced-air, would be required.