# What Is a Convector?
**A convector is a heating device that warms a room primarily through convection. Hot water or an electric element heats a series of metal fins, which in turn heat the surrounding air. The warm air rises naturally, drawing cool air in from below and creating a continuous circulation that heats the space.**
## How a Convector Works
The core of a convector consists of a pipe or element surrounded by closely spaced metal fins that maximize surface area. As hot water flows through the pipe (or an electric element heats up), the fins transfer heat to the air in contact with them. This heated air rises out of the top of the unit while cooler air is drawn in at the bottom, establishing a convection loop.
## Types of Convectors
– **Natural convectors** — rely solely on the buoyancy of warm air to create circulation; completely silent
– **Fan convectors** — include a small fan to force air over the fins for faster heating; slightly audible
– **Floor convectors** — recessed into the floor, often placed beneath large windows to counteract cold downdrafts
– **Wall-mounted convectors** — compact units fitted at low level along walls
– **Kickspace convectors** — small fan-assisted units fitted beneath kitchen cabinets
## Convector vs. Radiator
Despite the name, traditional panel radiators actually deliver about 50-70% of their heat through convection and the rest through radiation. A dedicated convector delivers nearly all its heat through convection and very little through radiation, making it faster to heat air but less effective at warming surfaces and people directly.
## Advantages and Disadvantages
Convectors heat rooms quickly and are compact, but they can stir up dust through constant air movement. They work best in well-insulated spaces where rapid air heating is desirable.
## Related Terms
– Convection
– Radiator
– Underfloor heating
– Heat emitter
– Indoor climate
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