Open coil heating elements have open circuits consisting of coiled resistance wire (usually Ni- Chrome or FeCrAl) fixed onto a supporting element that heat the medium directly. Termed as the most efficient and versatile while also the most economically feasible solution for heating, these elements have fast heat up times that improve efficiency and have been designed for low maintenance and inexpensive replacement parts. When an electrical current is applied to the wire, it gives off heat. The wire is connected to the control panel which regulates the amount of heat provided by the electric heater and fills the tunnel of the air handling unit. Because of the low mass and fast response time, SSR or SCR switching devices are advisable.  They serve as an indirect solution to decrease watt density requirements and prevent heat sensitive materials from breaking down. The heater can be formed into a compact, coiled nozzle heater supplying a full 360 degrees of heat with optional distributed wattage.