Smith's Environmental Products has unveiled the next generation of fan convector, known as Ecovector.

The new low H₂O heat emitters are the equivalent of 1.6kWs and 3kWs, although this was at a return temperature of 70 degrees celsius, which makes it a conventional gas boiler.

Nevertheless, the fan convectors can be used with condensing boilers or renewable technology such as heat pumps but the lower heat generated means the outputs are lower.

Ecovector's heat exchanger holds just 400ml of water which is 5% of the water required for an equivalent output radiator. This low water content means it heats up faster and responds quickly to changing heating requirements.

The new models are made to look like a radiator but are smaller. The 1.6kw version will cost about twice as much as the conventional radiator, however Gary Webster, managing director, said he had installed the heat emitters in his own home and believes they use 35% less energy. He also admits this is anecdotal and the company is presently researching the savings.

The company has launched two models both aimed at the domestic market and said there will be more to follow.

The units are made in Smith's factory near Chelmsford, Essex, have a five-year warranty and have no maintenance requirements.