Convectors are non-fan forced, re-circulating electric heaters that use natural convection to move the heated air back into the conditioned space. Convectors operate quieter than fan heaters. They also have a lower risk of ignition hazard in the event that they make unintended contact with furnishings when compared with radiant electric heaters.

Convector heaters are ideal for use in areas with large spans of windows, such as school and hotel lobbies. Typically mounted at floor level on exterior walls and under windows, convectors provide an upward movement of air to counteract cold downdrafts and minimize condensation.

Available in a variety of sizes, configurations and colors, convectors also offer design and installation versatility. Models are available that can be recessed into walls, housed in custom enclosures or mounted in a variety of ways.

Convectors are typically installed in perimeter applications to block the downdrafts caused by the cold outside wall cooling the air next to it, and to counteract transmission losses. In most cases, convectors are mounted at the floor level along an outside wall.

Convective infrared heaters draw colder air from the floor area, heat it and then the heated air rises to the ceiling where it cools, falling back to the floor to complete the cycle. This cycling or rotating effect works best with low to medium ceilings of 8 to 10 ft.

In instances where large expanses of multi-story windows are located where large groups of people congregate, a second series of convective heaters spaced at every floor level will prevent the cascading effect of the downdraft. While the rising heated air is blocking the downdraft, it also provides a warm air curtain that acts as a buffer to prevent the heat loss from the space to the cold wall.

For well-insulated buildings with small amounts of glass, the use of more compact convective heaters may be sufficient. These electric fireplace heaters would only be mounted under the window area. Utilizing heaters in this manner reduces the initial installation cost, since fewer heaters will be installed, while still providing the dual function of counter-acting the downdraft and the transmission effect.