Elvarme

Elvarme refers to heating produced by electrical energy used to generate heat for space heating or water heating. It covers electrical resistance heating devices such as electric radiators, convectors, and baseboard heaters; electric underfloor heating mats and cables; and electric water heaters and boilers. It is commonly used for supplementary heating, renovation projects, or in buildings without access to gas or district heating, and can serve as the primary heating source in milder climates or well-insulated buildings.

Principle: Most elvarme relies on electrical resistance—electric current passes through a conductor, converting electrical energy to heat. Underfloor systems emit radiant heat from the floor surface, while radiators and fan heaters distribute warmth via convection.

Control and efficiency: Thermostats, timers, zoning, and smart controls improve efficiency and comfort. Electric heating is 100% efficient at the point of use, but overall environmental efficiency depends on how the electricity is generated.

Environmental and economic considerations: In electricity-rich regions (e.g., hydropower) elvarme can have low emissions; in areas relying on fossil fuels the environmental footprint is higher. Electricity costs can be higher per kilowatt-hour than fossil fuels, but operational costs are influenced by tariffs, efficiency, and climate.

Safety and installation: Requires proper sizing, professional installation, electrical protection (RCDs, circuit breakers), and compliance with electrical codes. Regular maintenance and adherence to safety guidelines help mitigate risks of overheating and electrical fires.