Debunking the Electric Radiator Jargon

March 18, 2019 Paul

There are so many electric radiators to choose from with so many features and functions, but what does all the jargon mean? We take a look at many of the functions available for electric radiators and explain what each of them do and how they can benefit you.

Open window detection

An energy-saving technology which prevents the heater from excessive heat-wastage. The heater will detect large drops in ambient temperature and will reactively pause the system. It will then reset and resume activity once the temperature has stabilised. This drastically decreases energy wastage and improves heater’s efficiency and money-saving capabilities.

Capsense controller

Many of our heaters feature touch-sensitive panels and buttons for easy access and interaction. Capsense controls are elegant and practical; they offer water-tolerance and SmartSense adaptation, preventing false touch in moist environments.

Adaptive start

This technology pushes for minimum power consumption whilst also enhances temperature control. A heater featuring Adaptive start will self-learn, specifically learning what time to begin pre-heating the room so it hits the exact temperature it is set for at the correct time.
A traditional heater will begin radiating heat at the time it is set, however an adaptive start heater will have the ambient room temperature already heated. This self-defining functionality is an ultra modern feature providing superior heating solution performance.

Fuzzy Logic Energy Control

Specific to Rointe, the technology improves the energy management required to maintain a stable environment. Laboratories have shown the tech can save up to 62% in comparison to heating devices with no thermostat. This recent addition to the brands high quality heaters provides excellently efficient heating and minimising energy usage.

Frost prevention

Many heaters now feature frost prevention mode, a default mode which prevents the central heating from falling below 5°C. Freezing can cause permanent irreversible damage to the heating system. During winter and sub-zero temperatures, it was traditionally recommended to leave your central heating on to protect the inbuilt pipes from bursting. Frost prevention technology improves the systems ability to prevent damage and self-protects from environmental harms.

PID Thermostat control

Proportional Integral Derivative, an intuitive variation of heating replacing the on/off design. If the thermostat senses a small dip in ambient temperature, it will not simply start radiating heat, but will gradually increase the heating until the desired setting is achieved. If the temperature rises, the thermostat will also react to minimise energy wastage. This intelligent heating instrument improves the efficiency and performance of the heating solution.

Overheat detection

Many up-to-date heaters are fitted with a thermal cut-out, a safety implement which prevents the instruments from overheating and malfunctioning. Accurate alternative sensors are also specifically equipped to constantly measure the temperature of the instruments.

Other jargon you should familiarise yourself with

Lot 20

A section of the 2018 ERP directive specifically targeting electronic products. It demands all models of heater comply to a carbon reduction target. It regulates against inefficient products without increasing the costs of purchase or operation. For more information, read our article about Lot20.

IP rating

Ingress protection ratings determine the products effectiveness at resisting foreign bodies and liquids. This can include water, dust or fingers; it uses a very specific chart to help understand the suitability of a product for differing purposes. The higher the IP rating the more resistant the model is from moisture and dust.

For further clarification see our IP rating article.