FAQ
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Why should I choose Ouellet products?
Ouellet products are top quality, thanks to considerable investment in product development, as well as many years of research. With an R&D laboratory approved by the international office of CSA for product certification, Ouellet Canada has the expertise and state-of-the-art technology to design heaters that are thoroughly and carefully analyzed, fine-tuned, checked, and counterchecked. Ouellet Canada is the only Canadian manufacturer that is certified ISO 9001:2000 for its quality management system.
But quality does not stop with our products. Our dedicated and eager customer service representatives are available to answer all your questions, guide you through the purchasing process, and provide all the expertise you need to get your Ouellet product up and running.
Where can I get Ouellet products?
Ouellet products are distributed throughout North America by authorized distributor and electrical contractors. To find the Ouellet product dealer nearest you, go to the Distributors section. For a directory of master electrician installers, go to the Standards and Affiliations section. If you have trouble accessing these sections for any reason, call 1 800 463-7043 and we will provide the information.
What is the Ouellet warranty?
Ouellet Canada Inc. products are guaranteed against all defects for a minimum of one year following the date of purchase. A special warranty is provided on certain components, depending on the product series, in addition to the basic warranty. The warranty includes replacement with a new unit and does not include repair costs for defective components. For the terms, limitations, and length of the warranty on the product that interests you, feel free to contact us at 1 800 463-7043.
Who can install a Ouellet heater?
Ouellet heaters are electrical devices and, for safety reasons, should be installed by a qualified electrician in accordance with the national applicable and local electric codes. A qualified electrician can advise you as to the model and power output that best suit your needs. He or she can also offer advice on temperature regulation to help you save energy and get the most out of your investment.
Do baseboard heaters and convectors use different heating principles?
No. Both baseboard heaters and convectors work by convection. Air in the room is drawn toward the bottom of the unit, warmed when it comes in contact with the electric element contained in the metal housing and, once heated, redistributed from the top of the unit into the ambient air, creating circular air movement. Baseboard heaters are the traditional convection system. They quickly heat a room to the desired temperature.
How can I prevent yellowing?
Ouellet products have a finish that resists aging and yellowing. External factors can also alter the surface if the unit is not maintained properly. These include cigarette smoke, suspended pollution particles, and cooking smoke, especially without proper ventilation. Fine particles deposited on the unit can bake on with the heat. Keep surfaces clean by dusting them regularly with a damp cloth.
How should I clean my Ouellet heaters, and how often?
Regularly cleaning the heater surface is recommended. Wipe with a damp, soft cloth. Remove dust or buildup on the protective grill as often as necessary, using a vacuum cleaner brush on the front of the grill. Layers of dust can interfere with air circulation and reduce heater efficiency. NEVER REMOVE THE GRILL OR ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE HEATER FROM ITS HOUSING. NEVER USED ALCOHOL-BASED PRODUCTS, ABRASIVE PRODUCTS, OR SOLVENTS. NEVER IMMERSE IN WATER.
What are the benefits of this heating system for the consumer?
Similar to the sun, the floor heating system uses radiant heating, which bodies are naturally and readily receptive. Occupants immediately feel an enveloping and penetrating heat, for a sense of lasting comfort at lower temperatures. It's easy to add up: greater comfort less energy consumed = energy and cost savings.
Apart from providing superior comfort, it is clean (dust free), invisible, quiet, compatible with other heating systems, economical (operating cost for a room equivalent to two 100 watt lights left on at all times), safe, and maintenance free.
Can the floor heating system be a room's main heat source, without additional heating?
Absolutely. Some people install floor heating as a secondary heat source, simply to have a warm floor,
for added comfort, while others install it as a room's main source of heat. Floor heating systems use
the principle of radiant heating. By heating objects through radiation instead of heating the air, they provide a sense of comfort at a lower temperature than other heating systems, therefore requiring less energy. Easier to install than conventional central heating systems, heated floors are also more economical and provide less static and more enveloping heat.
Who can install a floor heating system?
There are two parts to installing a floor heating system: heating cable mat installation and electrical connection. The electrical hookup must be performed by an electrical contractor. Ouellet STRONGLY recommends that the heating cable mat be installed by a master electrician. We provide detailed instructions and technical support at any time during business hours, either online or by phone at 1-800-463-7043.
Which floor coverings are compatible with the floor heating system?
Ouellet's floor heating system was designed especially for ceramic or natural stone floors. It can also be used with "engineered" wood, vinyl, or other flooring, provided the manufacturer confirms it is compatible with a floor heating system.
In addition, if the heated floor is to be the room's only heat source, rather than a secondary heat source used only to warm the floor, it is important to choose a floor covering able to withstand continuous and occasionally more intense heat.
Does the heater have to be installed under a window?
Not necessarily. A Ouellet heater can be installed anywhere in the room. However, if the insulation is inadequate, we recommend identifying the cold air sources, which are generally concentrated around the windows. When you place the heater near the cold air source, the heat it generates comes in direct contact with the cold air, preventing cold zones and counteracting unpleasant drafts. Persistent cold zones can also cause condensation on the windows.
What is the difference between electronic and mechanical thermostats?
Mechanical thermostats have a moving part that is triggered by significant temperature variations. Less accurate than electronic thermostats, they produce temperature swings because the heater operates at full power until the setpoint is reached.
Electronic thermostats provide fully proportional control. By pulsing many times per minute and sensing temperature variations of less than 0.3ºC, they help maintain just the right amount of heat to keep the temperature near the setpoint. Thanks to a steady output of heat, they provide far greater comfort and savings (15 to 20% lower heating costs, according to independent tests).
Integrated or wall electronic thermostat which is better?
Both wall and integrated electronic thermostats help maintain a comfortable temperature. However, we recommend a wall electronic thermostat mounted on an interior wall, as it will provide a more accurate temperature reading and keep the ambient temperature steadier and more comfortable. Furthermore they are more convenient located of ease of reading an adjusting.