Are you comparing a quartz heater vs a halogen heater? A purchase based on this comparison can affect your home’s energy efficiency and cost. That’s why it’s essential to understand the differences between quartz and halogen heaters. With this knowledge, you can make an informed decision regarding your heating needs. This article will explore the key differences between quartz and halogen heating technologies. We’ll look at factors such as energy efficiency, cost and more to help you determine which type of heater is right for you.
Quartz heaters are one of the oldest heating technologies on the market today. They have been around since the early 1900s. Known as “infrared” or “radiant” heaters, they use a quartz bulb to emit infrared radiation. This radiation warms objects and people in the room.
Halogen heaters are a newer technology that has grown in popularity since their introduction in the 1970s. They use halogen bulbs to create radiant heat, which is then directed into the room to warm it up. Halogen heaters are usually more energy-efficient than quartz heaters. However, some models can be more expensive due to their advanced technology. Additionally, halogen heaters typically need more maintenance than quartz models. Halogen heaters have shorter lifespans. For more information on halogen heaters, see How do Halogen Heaters Work.
Quartz Heater vs Halogen: Similarities and Differences
What are Quartz and Halogen Heaters
Both quartz and halogen heaters use a tungsten filament encased in a gas tube. In both cases, electricity is passed through the filament, which emits radiation. The radiation heats the quartz glass tube. The tube then emits infrared light that travels in a straight line. The infrared light heats the human body and surfaces that it encounters.
So what is the difference between the two? The main difference is the temperature that the filament heats up to. Quartz heater filaments operate at around 1000°C (1830°F) while halogen heaters operate above 1800°C (3,270°F – Infrared heaters on Wikipedia).
At the temperatures at which halogen heaters operate, the tungsten filament evaporates. A problem exists as the evaporated tungsten can foul the glass encasement. This would destroy the tube’s efficiency. The addition of halogen prevents this from occurring. The halogen gas reacts chemically with the evaporated tungsten. The tungsten is redeposited on the filament due to the halogen cycle (see other post).
How is Heat Generated: Getting into the Physics of it
We’ll take a quick detour into the physics of how these types of heaters generate heat. I will keep it as simple as possible. It will give you a better understanding of the similarity between quartz and halogen heaters.
Both quartz and halogen heaters utilise a glass tube that contains a filament. Electricity flows through the filament. Due to resistance in the filament, it heats up.
When a body (like a filament) is at a higher temperature than its surroundings, it gives off electromagnetic radiation (basically light). The temperature of the body determines the frequency of the radiation. The hotter the body, the higher the frequency of the light (red light is a lower frequency than blue light). As a body is heated, it may glow red before progressively getting brighter and giving off more white light. A body may not be seen as giving off light at lower temperatures, but that is only because our eyes cannot detect it. At lower temperatures, bodies give off infrared radiation. This radiation is what we call heat. This radiation is predominantly emitted by quartz and halogen heaters.
The relationship between a body’s temperature and the radiation emitted is described by black body radiation.
Efficiency comparison between quartz and halogen heaters
Both quartz and halogen heaters emit heat at approximately the same efficiency. However, the difference is how the body absorbs the resultant heat.
Daewoo Electricals compared a variety of heating technologies. They found that halogen heaters were the most economical to run.
Cost-effectiveness of quartz and halogen heaters
On average, quartz heaters are cheaper to purchase than halogen heaters. The quartz bulbs last longer than halogen bulbs will.
Quartz heaters come out in front on the upfront and maintenance costs. However, their running costs may negate this advantage.
Safety considerations when choosing quartz or halogen heaters
Regarding safety, quartz heaters have an advantage over halogen heaters. Quartz heats slowly, making it less likely to cause fires or burns accidentally. Halogen heaters can be a fire hazard and should be used with caution. It’s essential to ensure you understand the safety risks before purchasing quartz or halogen heaters.
Size and placement considerations for quartz and halogen heaters
Size and placement should also be considered when choosing a quartz heater vs halogen. Quartz heaters tend to be larger than halogens, so ensure you have enough space before buying one. Quartz heaters are best suited for larger rooms, while smaller spaces can better accommodate a halogen heater instead.
How to make an informed decision on the correct type of heater for your home or office
When comparing quartz heaters vs halogen, there are several factors to consider. These factors include efficiency, cost-effectiveness, safety, size and placement. With this information, you can decide on the correct type of heater for your home or office. The right heater will keep your space warm and comfortable all year round.
Conclusion
Both quartz and halogen heating technologies have their advantages and disadvantages. These factors should be considered when choosing a heater for your home or office. Quartz heaters are generally less expensive and require less maintenance. Halogen heaters tend to be more energy efficient but may need to be replaced sooner. Ultimately, the decision should come down to your budget, lifestyle and heating needs. By understanding the differences between quartz and halogen heaters, you can decide which type of heater is best for you.
You may like to discover how to save money when using halogen heaters.
You may also like to read a comparison of ceramic and halogen heaters.
Summary
- Quartz and halogen heaters use similar technologies.
- Both convert electricity to heat
- Halogen heaters are more efficient than quartz heaters
- Quartz heaters are cheaper to buy and maintain
- Which you buy is determined by your requirements
