Freestanding convector: what it is and where it’s used

A freestanding convector is a heating device that stands on the floor and runs on a water-based heating system (boiler or heat pump). It is used where recessing a unit into the floor is impossible or impractical, but a tidy heat source is needed beside the glazing. Important: this is a water device, not a domestic electric convector.

What it is

It is a compact unit in a casing housing a heat exchanger filled with hot water. Cold air near the floor passes through the heat exchanger, warms up and rises — creating natural heat circulation. It connects to the same system as radiators, but has a low, tidy profile and stands along the glazing.

Freestanding convector vs trench heater

• Freestanding convector — stands on the floor, no need to open up the floor for installation; suits finished rooms and renovations.
• Trench heater — built into the floor, fully concealed; needs to be planned at the construction/renovation stage. More in What is a trench heater.

Both are water devices for heating along windows; the choice depends on whether recessing into the floor is possible.

How it works

1. Hot water enters the unit’s heat exchanger.
2. Cold air near the floor and window passes across the warm heat exchanger.
3. The warmed air rises, forming a heat curtain at the glass and removing cold zones.

Where it’s used

• along panoramic windows and storefronts, where a radiator doesn’t fit;
• in renovations where the floor cannot be opened up;
• in residential and public spaces, offices and winter gardens.

Water vs electric

Electric freestanding convectors are cheap to buy but costly to run and depend on the power grid. A water-based freestanding convector connects to the common heating system (boiler, heat pump), is more economical and provides even heat — an engineering solution, not a temporary heater.

Konveka freestanding convectors

Konveka is a European manufacturer of water-based convectors and fan coils since 2005. Freestanding convectors — models SC and SC-H — feature a stainless-steel casing and work by natural convection. Browse the range. Need help? Contact us.

Frequently asked questions

What is a freestanding convector? A unit that stands on the floor and runs on a water-based heating system; it heats the air near the window and forms a heat curtain.

How does it differ from a trench heater? A freestanding convector stands on the floor (simpler install, suits finished rooms); a trench heater is built into the floor and fully concealed.

Water or electric — which to choose? A water-based unit is more economical to run and connects to the common system; an electric one is only a temporary solution.

Can such a convector cool? No, a convector only heats. For heating and cooling use fan coils.