Electrorad AF01E Aeroflow WiFi Controlled Electric Radiator, 650w

German-made ceramic electric radiators are testament to the precision engineering and innovation that we’ve come to expect from German manufacturers as a whole. Let’s take a look at where it all started and how they have evolved to become what’s widely regarded as the best direct electric heating technology available today.

What’s the ceramic material inside German electric radiators?

The ceramic in question is known in Germany as “chamotte”. It’s also known elsewhere as “Fireclay”. Chamotte was first used in domestic heating over 500 years ago in Central Europe. Kachelöfen (tiled stoves) made from chamotte were commonly used for heating and cooking, and later also in industry. The primary function of chamotte in wood and coal-fired Kachelöfen design was to absorb and retain heat whilst withstanding the very high temperatures produced. It reduced the consumption of fuel, whilst providing a sustained and uniform distribution of heat without the need for any maintenance. The use of chamotte continued into electrically-powered heating in the form of electrical tiled stoves in the 1960’s and now to the electric radiators that we know today.

At the heart of every genuine German-built electric radiator is a series of ceramic (chamotte) heat-retaining plates – each with its own heating element tightly imbedded inside.

Though the ceramic material traditionally used in German radiators is certainly quite exceptional at holding heat, there is no magic involved, as some German electric heating suppliers might have you believe. Though a thicker ceramic plate might take longer to cool-down, it must also be considered that consequently, it also takes longer to warm-up. Others might claim to be made from a “magmatic” material (possibly inferring that it’s from a volcano) but again, any claims of magical properties should be discounted. One thing remains true regardless: Where German electric heating is concerned, the heat-retaining ceramic material should be formed from the dense mineral-rich clay known as chamotte.

And the heating elements?

The heating elements contained inside a German Radiator should always be sealed within the ceramic plates. Importantly, the clay should be formed and compressed extremely tightly around the heating elements before it is kiln-fired. This process is key to ensuring longevity and an effective heat-transfer. Heating elements pushed into holes drilled into the ceramic plates after firing lose both the reliability and effectiveness of those that are correctly sealed inside.