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Those using infrared radiation have become especially popular today. Modern models are based on energy-saving technologies. Having carefully studied the pros, cons and price of infrared heaters, we can say with confidence that these devices are an excellent source of additional heating and may well act as the only source of heat in the house.
IR heating devices will create a comfortable room temperature
According to experts, it is an effective, durable and reliable means of heating.
The principle of operation of infrared waves and the equipment of the device
IR heating devices convert electrical energy into heat using heating. Infrared heat rays heat objects and living organisms.
Helpful information! Traditional heating systems spend almost all energy heating the air space of the room.
Objects heated by infrared radiation give off heat to the air. That is why heat loss during infrared heating is minimal.
The total surface of all objects in the room is much larger than, for example, the surface of a traditional battery. In this regard, IR irradiation heats the room four times faster. At the same time, the temperature difference between the ceiling and floor is minimal.
The infrared heating device consists of:
- a housing having a control unit and a cord for connecting to a power source;
- cylindrical or parabolic reflector;
- protective mesh made of metal or transparent partition.
Types and types of devices
IR devices for heating a home are divided into types according to the principle:
- energy uses are divided into electric, gas and diesel;
- wave type - there are short-wave and long-wave;
- mounting location - can be ceiling, floor, wall, mobile.
Infrared heaters: pros and cons, price
When choosing infrared heating devices for your home, you should consider the advantages and disadvantages of this type of heating.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages of an infrared heating system:
Disadvantages of IR heating devices:
Prices and manufacturers
Before considering the list of the most popular models, it is worthwhile to dwell separately on one type of infrared heating devices - gas. This relatively new technology makes it possible to increase the efficiency of conventional room heating using liquefied gas several times. These devices quickly heat the room and do not depend on the supply of electricity. Compact models can even operate on small gas cartridges. These are the pros and cons of infrared gas heaters. The price for such devices is very affordable and starts from 520 rubles for a small device that can heat, for example, a garden gazebo with an area of 40 square meters.
Table 1. The most popular models of infrared heaters according to user surveys
How to choose infrared heaters
When deciding which one to choose for heating a house or apartment, you should pay attention to the type of heating element of the device. They come in three types:
- quartz;
- metal;
- ceramic.
Helpful information! It is not advisable to install halogen infrared heating devices in residential areas. They emit infrared waves in a short range, which can negatively affect a person’s well-being.
Quartz heating elements consist of a carbon spiral. Devices with such a heating element heat up quickly and have a high efficiency. Their disadvantage is their relatively short service life, about two to three years. In addition, they consume a lot of electricity and glow in the dark.
Ceramic heaters are more expensive, but last almost twice as long as quartz heaters. They consume from 50 kilowatts of energy and are considered one of the most economical heating elements.
Heaters based on micathermic metal elements are reliable and durable. During operation, they crackle a little, but otherwise have only positive reviews from users.
Pros and cons, the price of infrared heaters are not all aspects that are important for choosing a suitable device. You should pay attention to several more features of the infrared device:
- Thickness of the anodizing layer on the heating element. A layer of less than twenty-five microns will lead to rapid failure of the device.
- Appliances with a ferrous metal heating element cannot be used in the bathroom or kitchen.
- The foil in the device must have a thickness of at least one hundred and twenty microns. To check, you can press on it with the shaft of a regular pen. The foil should not be deformed.
- To heat ten square meters of space, at least one thousand watts of device power will be required. It is better to buy a device with a power reserve.
Mankind has invented many heating devices that differ in efficiency and effectiveness. And the latest innovation in this segment of the heating engineering market are infrared heaters used for heating residential, industrial and administrative buildings. They have a simple design and a number of important advantages over other heating devices.
In this review we will look at:
- the principle of operation of infrared heaters and their design;
- advantages and disadvantages of IR heaters;
- recommendations for use;
- recommendations for choosing heaters;
- user reviews of popular IR heater models.
After reading the review, you will get a complete understanding of infrared heaters and their capabilities.
Operating principle of the IR heater
Electric heating of private houses and cottages has a number of advantages - ease of installation and quick start. In order to create a heating system that runs on electricity, it is enough to install radiators, convectors and other heating devices in the rooms that are suitable for heat transfer. They will ensure quick heating of the premises and create an excellent microclimate in them..
Considering the features of electric heating, one cannot help but note its gluttony - the final electricity bills can be astronomical. In order to make heating more economical, modern, efficient household infrared heaters have been created that heat using infrared radiation. They made it possible to slightly reduce the bills for heating the premises, which is due to the peculiarities of their work.
The infrared rays of the Sun, passing through our atmosphere, do not heat it. They give their energy to the surface of the Earth.
To understand how infrared heaters work, you need to understand a little physics. Infrared radiation is part of the solar spectrum and is responsible for heat. It does not heat the air - it warms the surface of our planet, due to which it is always warmer near its surface than in higher layers of the atmosphere (within certain limits). Infrared heaters work on a similar principle, transferring heat to surrounding objects.
This scheme of work allows:
- improve the quality of space heating;
- reduce energy consumption costs;
- get rid of the intermediate link - air;
- reduce heat losses;
- make the heating of the premises more uniform.
If you look at a simple household convector, you will notice that it consumes energy extremely uneconomically, even if it is a very good and efficient convector. The thing is that it warms the air, leaving surrounding objects and walls cold. All the heat generated by convectors rushes upward due to natural convection. And the greater the height of the room, the greater the difference in temperature in the upper and lower parts of the rooms.
That is why we often feel the cold flowing across the floor with our feet, since all the heat, obeying the laws of physics, rushes upward.
IR equipment, generating infrared radiation, heats surrounding objects. They begin to give off heat, providing rapid heating of the rooms - the air temperature in the rooms will be the same both near the floors and near the ceilings. At the same time, the oxygen level and air humidity remain the same.
IR heaters, unlike conventional convectors, heat the surrounding objects rather than the air, which contributes to more uniform heating of the room.
Household infrared heaters are used in private homes, cottages, and apartments. In the latter case, they act as auxiliary heating equipment, although nothing prevents them from being made the main heating devices.
Thanks to its unusual operating principle infrared heaters can heat not only indoor spaces, but also open areas. They are used to heat outdoor cafes, gazebos, playgrounds and other areas. There are varieties specifically for completely open spaces - for example, with their help you can create a comfortable atmosphere at street gatherings during the cold season.
For outdoor work, special thermal umbrellas are used - these are electric or gas infrared heaters for outdoor use. They heat an area within a radius of several meters, running on electricity or bottled gas.
Pros and cons of IR heater
Household infrared heaters have a number of important advantages
Despite their small size, IR heaters heat no worse than their traditional counterparts.
- Small in size - they do not clutter up the room and can be installed in almost any location, for example, under windows or near walls.
- Variety of models – customers can choose from floor, wall and ceiling models. The latter are attached to the ceiling in the manner of conventional fluorescent lamps.
- Economical – the use of infrared heaters can reduce energy costs by approximately 1.5-2 times(depending on specific operating conditions).
- There is no influence of drafts and wind - infrared heaters warm the surrounding objects, and not the air itself.
- Directional influence - by turning the infrared heater in one direction or another, you can achieve more uniform heating of the premises.
- Affordable price for infrared heaters - from 600 rubles (minimum price for a model with a power of 800 W).
- Instant sensation of warmth - as soon as you enter the heater’s operating zone, you will feel the heat (but it is better to direct its radiation at objects, and not at yourself and the people around you).
- Infrared heaters do not burn oxygen - they do not have open heating elements.
By turning on infrared heaters, a person can instantly feel the warmth. But long-term stay in an area of intense radiation is not recommended. It is best to point the heaters at surrounding objects so that they begin to accumulate and release heat.
Disadvantages of infrared heaters
Staying under the rays of an infrared heater for too long can cause headaches.
- There is no confirmed data on the safety of infrared heaters - so far their safety has been proven only theoretically. There is also information that if you stay in an intense heating zone for a long time, your vision may deteriorate, you may feel tired and drowsy, and you may experience headaches.
- Overheating of surrounding objects is possible - in this regard, it is recommended to use ceiling models (they will ensure that there is no overheating and will evenly heat the room).
- High energy costs - despite the fact that infrared heaters are economical heating equipment, electricity remains the most expensive energy source. Therefore, heating costs will be high.
Yes, the safety of infrared heaters has not yet been confirmed by anyone - it is believed that in such doses infrared radiation hardly harms humans. Nevertheless, cases of headaches and fatigue are still recorded, which requires thoughtful and careful use.
In order to avoid unpleasant symptoms, it is necessary to correctly select the power of the equipment and ensure its correct position - ideally, infrared radiation should heat surrounding objects, and not the heads, legs and arms of surrounding people.
How to choose an infrared heater and what to look for when purchasing it? First you need to decide on the thermal (aka electrical) power, which is about 80 W per 1 square meter. m. We multiply the area of the room by the base thermal power and get the final result. Don’t forget about the correction factors that need to be taken into account when calculating equipment - they will create a comfortable microclimate and ensure quick heating.
If you want to create high-quality and efficient heating in residential premises, We recommend choosing ceiling models. They ensure the safety of people in the rooms and warm up the walls, floors and surrounding objects well, promoting uniform heat distribution. You can also turn your attention to wall-mounted models - they are similar in their characteristics and properties to ceiling varieties.
Do you need to provide local heating rather than heat the entire room? Then modern infrared heaters with tubular or carbon heaters are suitable for you - they are characterized by safety for others and durability (unlike their halogen or ceramic counterparts). Use these heaters in accordance with the operating instructions and do not place them too close to you.
To heat outdoor areas, use floor models or heaters on stands - they will provide comfortable outdoor gatherings at any time of the year. It is also recommended to pay attention to the wavelength, choosing only long-wave emitters for heating rooms.
You can purchase infrared heaters in many stores that sell heating equipment. There are more and more of them here, as they are in demand. You can also find infrared heater stores on the Internet - such stores sell heaters with delivery throughout Russia. Please also note the fact that infrared heaters can be not only electric, but also gas– the latter are most often used for heating open areas, industrial premises and buildings under construction.
Reviews of infrared heaters
Looking at reviews of IR heaters, we can notice that not all of them are positive. This often happens when the equipment is incorrectly selected or used incorrectly.
Ivan 39 years
I do wood milling and rent a small workshop of about 30 square meters. m. There are two CNC machines and my workbench. There is no heating in the workshop, although there are radiators. But the landlord doesn’t care how tenants work without heat. Based on recommendations from the Internet, I purchased a gas infrared heater Ballu Bigh-55. The device has a nice body and good heating. The consumption of bottled gas, given the small area of the room, is not very high - there is power adjustment. Only the quality of the heater is “lame” - at first there were problems with ignition, now the burner itself has begun to crumble. It would do well for the manufacturer to improve their equipment a little.
Elena 45 years
For my 45th birthday, my husband gave me the gift of my dreams - he bought a dacha near Lipetsk. Only there was no heating in the house, so this problem had to be solved somehow. Initially we planned to install an electric boiler, but we were advised to purchase infrared heaters - there is no need to lay pipes and bother with draining the system in winter. Considering that we did not plan to live in the country, we agreed with the advice and bought ceiling heaters. Literally 2-3 hours of work – and the rooms become warm. Next year we plan to make remote control via GSM channel so that we can come to a house that is already warmed up.
Konstantin 29 years
My school friend and I are working on heating. We recently received an order to create a heating system in a house without gasification. After consulting with the homeowners, we decided to install infrared heaters here. To create more comfortable living conditions, we chose ceiling models. Total for 2 rooms of 18 sq. m we installed 4 heaters, another heater was installed in the kitchen, and we recommended purchasing a floor-standing model for the bathroom. The house is warm even in severe frosts, and the owners additionally rewarded us for the money we saved - buying a boiler, pipes, radiators and installing all this equipment would have cost much more.
Vyacheslav 25 years
Our apartment in an apartment building is heated by a centralized boiler room, which is located in the neighboring yard. Judging by her appearance and constant interruptions, she does not have long to live. But someone’s “bright” mind does not provide money for the modernization and repair of this completely rusted piece of junk. With the birth of my daughter, it was necessary to somehow solve the problem with periodic heat outages. We decided to buy an infrared household heater and opted for the nice Timberk A2 1100. Reviews said that it heats very well, but in reality everything turned out to be different - it consumes electricity regularly, but not enough heat. There is also no power adjustment, now we regret that we did not choose a more functional model.
Stanislav 34 years
I have a small country house where I often spend weekends, relaxing after a hectic and gray everyday life. After the purchase, I spent almost the entire summer here, and with the onset of autumn it became necessary to think about heating - there is no gas in the house, only electricity. I immediately refused heating with bottled gas, since I had no desire to buy a boiler, and it would have required a lot of money to install it and lay pipes. Therefore, I decided to heat the house using the Polaris PKSH 0508H infrared heater. The device is not bad and pleases with a cozy glowing carbon heater. But the characteristics written in the passport are not entirely correct - from 20 sq. m the device does not cope. Normal heating appeared only after I purchased another heater. I rate this model 3 out of 5.
Vadim 42 years
I needed to warm up a production area of approximately 40 square meters. Heat guns are too power-hungry, and the quality of heating left much to be desired. I consulted with specialists at the store - they recommended infrared heaters. I had to agree, since winters in Vladimir can be very cold. We chose a suitable model, mounted it on the wall, and connected it to the network. The result is almost the same as with a heat gun - that is, no result. No one will return the wasted money, so next winter I’ll splurge on electric convectors or install a gas boiler that will be powered by a cylinder.
Since their appearance on the market, infrared heating devices have slowly but surely gained increasing popularity. The scope of their application is quite wide - from ordinary residential premises to high-rise industrial buildings. Naturally, the design and operating principle of an infrared heater is of considerable interest. We bring to your attention this article, where all questions regarding the operation of these devices will be discussed in detail.
Infrared heater: how does it work?
To get an idea of how infrared heating devices operate, let’s first understand the ways in which thermal energy can be transmitted in a room. There are only two of them:
- convection: any object whose temperature is higher than the surrounding air exchanges heat with it directly. The air, heated by this object, loses density and mass, due to which it rushes upward, displaced by a heavier cold flow. Thus, the circulation of air masses of different temperatures begins in the space of the room.
- radiant heat: a surface with a temperature of more than 60 ºС begins to intensively emit electromagnetic waves in the range of 0.75-100 microns, carrying thermal energy. This is the basis for the work of infrared heaters, whose heating elements emit such waves.
The most comfortable range of infrared radiation for humans is from 5.6 to 100 microns, within which most infrared heaters operate. An exception is long-range devices installed on the ceilings of industrial buildings. They emit in the medium (2.5-5.6 µm) and short (0.75-2.5 µm) ranges and are located at a distance from the target of 3-6 m and 6-12 m, respectively. It is unacceptable to use such emitters in residential buildings.
When infrared rays hit surfaces within visibility, they increase their temperature. After this, the principle of convection comes into effect, heat begins to be transferred from the surfaces to the air of the room. Such heating is more uniform than during the operation of traditional convective systems, which is reflected in the figure:
Heater device
Before considering the design of an infrared heater, we note that these devices are produced in 2 types:
electric: they use heating elements of various types: carbon spirals, tubular heating elements, halogen lamps and film micathermic panels.
gas: here IR rays are emitted by a heated ceramic element.
We will consider the design of the device using the example of a ceiling-mounted long-wave heater powered from the mains. In it, the role of a heating element is played by an aluminum plate with a built-in heating element of a special design. An anodized coating is applied to the surface of the plate, which improves the heat transfer of the surface. On the reverse side there is a reflector and a layer of heat-insulating material. The diagram below shows the design of ceiling heaters:
1 – metal body; 2 – ceiling mounting brackets; 3 – heating element; 4 – radiating plate made of aluminum; 5 – layer of thermal insulation with a reflector.
Other electrical infrared heating devices with other types of heating elements are structurally not much different from pendant-type radiators. The only significant difference between them is the method of control. Wall-mounted and floor-mounted IR heaters have a built-in control unit with a thermostat and a tilt sensor. For ceiling-mounted devices, this unit is remote and mounted on the wall; it can control several devices simultaneously.
It must be said that the principle of operation of a gas infrared heater is similar to an electric one, only thermal energy is obtained in different ways.
In a gas appliance, the heating element is a ceramic plate, whose temperature can reach 900 ºС depending on the settings. The plate is heated by a gas burner located at the end of the housing, as shown in the diagram:
What is the secret of popularity?
Manufacturers declare the following advantages of infrared heaters:
- high efficiency and cost-effectiveness;
- absence of rotating parts and noise;
- a gentle warmth is generated that does not cause a deterioration in a person’s well-being;
- simple installation and connection.
As a rule, these are general phrases; something similar can be found in descriptions of oil radiators or wall-mounted convectors. They do not answer the question: why are devices so attractive to users in real life? It turns out that everything is simple, the operation of a ceiling infrared heater, like a wall-mounted one, is possible in non-insulated buildings, in drafts and even on the street. The main thing is to be within the range of infrared radiation.
A device that emits infrared waves will create a zone of comfortable heat in front of it, leaving the rest of the room unattended. It will warm up after a few hours from heated objects. But the fact remains: in a room where 1 kW of heat is needed for heating, people install a 500 W infrared heater so that the radiant heat is distributed as widely as possible. This creates the illusion of good heating, although in reality the temperature in the room remains dog-like; the laws of physics cannot be fooled.
If heating a room requires 1 kW of heat, then the infrared emitters should be of exactly this power, then there will be no illusions, a comfortable temperature will quickly be established in the entire room.
The devices also have other disadvantages. For example, the design of an infrared heater in a suspended design implies a wasteful consumption of about 10% of the heat accumulating under the ceiling. This is a convective transfer of energy from the heated body of the device to the surrounding air, which remains there, under the ceiling. Various objects interfere with the operation of wall heaters; carbon and halogen heaters are annoying with their bright light, and micathermic heaters are expensive.
Conclusion
In general, infrared electric and gas heaters are perfect products and can heat private homes well. The main thing when buying is not to follow the lead of the sellers and choose a device of the required power, and then arrange it at home in the optimal way.
With the onset of the first frosts, the house becomes uncomfortable and cold. This means it's time to visit the store to purchase a quality heater. There are a great variety of models on the modern market that differ in efficiency and quality characteristics. Among them are convection, infrared, oil and gas varieties, as well as fan heaters. In this article we will look at modern types of heaters. You will find out which one is better by reading it.
Main types of heaters
When you visit the store, you will find three main types of equipment described, each of which has its own operating principle. If we are talking about convection devices, then they operate on the principle of heating air, which is constantly moving. Infrared units emit long waves that heat surfaces and objects without heating the air. The third type of device for increasing indoor comfort is fan heaters, which pump air, directing it to the right place. And finally, oil-based ones use mineral oil as a coolant. There are also gas devices. In order to decide which types of home heaters are most suitable, you need to consider each of them.
Oil heaters
This equipment heats up quite slowly, but retains heat for a long time. It appeared at the end of the last century. At that time, these devices were considered the most common, as they were the best. This heater can be compared to a cast iron radiator, but unlike it, there is not water inside, but mineral oil. The latter is heated by a heating element, which is powered by electricity.
If we compare with a conventional battery, then oil units also have several sections. As they increase, heat transfer increases. Oil heaters heat a room through convection. However, they also have wave radiation, but it is insignificant and therefore plays a small role.
When considering the types of oil heaters, you should take into account that for every 10 square meters of room there should be one kilowatt of power. This is true for which is 2.7 meters. At higher rates, you need to choose more impressive power. There are varieties of these devices that have a built-in fan heater; this element can significantly reduce the heating time of the room.
Why choose an oil heater?
If you decide to prefer oil-based heaters, you should know that they have many advantages. Among the latter, one can highlight the low cost, which starts from 1,500 rubles, as well as a long operating time and the presence of an adjustable thermostat. The device can be easily moved around the apartment. If the current supply suddenly stops, the oil will release heat for a certain period of time.
Should I abandon the oil unit?
The described types of heaters also have some disadvantages, namely, the device warms up after switching on for a long time. Among other things, the unit weighs quite a lot, and its dimensions cannot be called compact. The housing heats up to 70 degrees, which can cause burns. These heaters are not economical, and their average power is 2 kilowatts. Due to the fact that the device operates by convection, dust is constantly moving in the room, so such units are undesirable for people who suffer from allergies.
Electric convectors
When considering the types of electric heaters, you can pay attention to convectors, which turn on quickly and heat up slowly. These devices use exclusively convection during operation. At the bottom end of such a heater there are slots through which air is sucked in. Heating occurs using a heating element. Hot air rushes upward after the temperature rises.
The more impressive the area of the heating element, the more air will be heated. For this reason, manufacturers are trying to increase the area by equipping the heating element tube with flat ribs made of metal. These types of types are not inertial, like oil devices. They will need a few minutes to warm up. This is due to the fact that the coolant is not oil, but air. Due to the fact that the body is devoid of unnecessary parts, the convectors are as thin as possible, their thickness does not exceed 8.5 centimeters.
If you are interested in the types of wall heaters, then you may prefer a convector, since it is this type that is most often manufactured in this version. However, you can choose a floor-standing model that comes with wheels. The power here can be selected according to the above principle.
Why should you choose a convector?
Convectors have a fairly reasonable price, which starts from 2500 rubles. Among other things, the case does not heat above 60 degrees, which indicates safety. During operation, the equipment does not make noise, which is a big plus. These units have the ability to automatically turn on and off, which is controlled by a thermostat. You can be sure that the heater will not overheat, since special protection is built into such equipment.
The main disadvantages of convectors
When considering the types of heaters, you should also consider their disadvantages. The disadvantage of convector appliances is their low power, which means that the equipment will not be able to warm up a large room. The air takes a long time to warm up, since convectors do not have built-in fans.
Fan heaters
These devices can have completely different sizes. With an increase in the area of the fan blades, which is installed inside the housing, the dimensions of the device increase. The heating air will pass through the steel spiral or element. If you want to warm up the air in the room in the shortest possible time, then you should choose a fan heater. Half an hour after switching on, it will be noticeably warmer inside. One kilowatt of power from such a device will be enough for 10 square meters of area. If you are considering heaters, the types of which offer the most impressive savings, then you should prefer this particular solution.
The main advantages of fan heaters
Such devices are the cheapest: if the model is equipped with a spiral, then it can cost only 500 rubles. When choosing equipment that is equipped with a ceramic plate, you may have to pay 1,100 rubles. If you are looking to save money, then using a fan heater can achieve this, since it has low power. There is a thermostat inside the structure that will eliminate the possibility of overheating of the structure. Fan heaters are very lightweight, so moving them from one room to another will be easy.
Main disadvantages
If you are interested in heaters, you can consider the types of devices, and then choose a model for yourself individually based on individual parameters. Thus, fan heaters are quite noisy, so consumers often incline their choice towards other models. Such equipment quickly overheats, so it is not possible to use it for a long time. Among other things, during operation you will encounter a lot of dust rising into the air.
Quiet and expensive infrared heaters
There are different types on sale today. Inside such equipment there is a lamp that emits long infrared waves. Due to the fact that the human eye does not see this part of the spectrum, the equipment operates unnoticed. Radiation performs its function by heating objects in the room. The human body also heats up, so you shouldn’t stay under such radiation for a long time, as you can overheat. Such devices are available in ceiling, wall and floor versions. In some cases, owners of private houses install them on balconies or terraces. When choosing power, you should be guided by this rule: 1 kilowatt per 10 square meters. As for the interior space of the apartment, the power should be increased to 1.5 kilowatts per said area.
Why choose an infrared heater?
Such a device operates silently, without raising a single speck of dust. During operation, it will be possible to equalize the air temperature throughout the entire volume of the room, since the planes heat up simultaneously. After switching on, the device will immediately begin to heat the room; when switched off, it will instantly cool down.
Main disadvantages
These heaters are more expensive than all the others; you will have to pay about 2,500 rubles or more for a model. Only objects located in the radiation zone will heat up. A person should also not stay under the rays for a long time, as this can cause the body to overheat.
Main types of gas heaters
Such devices are most often used in a country house where it is not possible to connect to the main heating network. For such models, the common structural elements are the body, burner, heat exchanger, and the types of gas heaters on the market will allow you to decide what to prefer: catalytic or infrared models. The devices are based on the function of burning gas without flame inside an insulated chamber. First, the energy resource is filled with an air-gas mixer, and then combined with injected air.
The main disadvantage of such devices is their dependence on gas supply, which is quite expensive. However, for a country house such a decision may be the only correct one. That is why many consumers purposefully visit the store in order to purchase such equipment.
IR heaters are devices used to heat rooms by heating surrounding objects. A high-quality, properly selected infrared heater will work effectively for a long time. “Plumber Portal” will help you figure out how to choose a quality product based on design features. To do this, we will need to consider in detail the design and operating principle of these units, as well as the main characteristics that we need to rely on when choosing.
Design and operating principle
Many people are interested in how this type of heating device works? Infrared heaters are devices that are quite different from convectors. Unlike the latter, their operating principle is to heat surrounding objects (including walls and floors), and not air.
Infrared radiation can be compared to the sun's rays, which penetrate the air without changing its temperature. And as soon as the beam hits an object that does not transmit light, the beam is immediately absorbed by the object, causing its temperature to increase.
IR waves are quite long in length - it is these that our skin perceives as solar heat. We feel it, but are not able to see it. And regardless of the wind and drafts, these rays warm us. The principle of operation of infrared heaters is also not afraid of such air movements, since its action is similar to the action of sunlight.
Not a single convector is able to heat a room immediately after switching on, since during its operation there is a constant movement of heated air. When an IR heater is operating, the situation is somewhat different - the heat from the device begins to be felt almost immediately after it is turned on, but this heat is not felt in the entire room, but only in the place where the radiation occurs.
The device is not made of any fancy parts. The aluminum reflector is housed in a steel case painted with durable powder paint. The main structural element, the heating element, is mounted on this reflector. This element has four types of construction: carbon, ceramic, halogen and tubular (called heating element).
In addition, each infrared heater is equipped with a thermostat to regulate the temperature and a sensor that turns off the device when it overheats. If the device is designed to be installed on the floor, it must also be equipped with a tip-over sensor.
Unlike other devices, IR electric heaters heat objects in the room, not the air. This equipment has a fairly significant list of positive qualities:
- high level of fire safety;
- silent operation;
- no dry air in the room;
- relatively quick heating of the room (1.5-2 hours);
- low level of electricity consumption (savings up to 30%).
The disadvantage is the relatively high cost. But you will be pleasantly surprised by the electricity bill, even at a daily rate.
At the same time, infrared heaters, the pros and cons (price) of which we have reviewed, are the most economical electric heaters. Heating is cheaper than with gas appliances.
Options for IR heaters
So, which version of the IR heater for the home should you choose: floor-mounted, ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted? It all depends on the operating conditions of the device and the size of the room where it will be installed.
First you need to decide what type of device you need: stationary or whether the device is supposed to be moved from one room to another. Mobile ones are small in size, but their power is appropriate; stationary ones are divided into ceiling-mounted, baseboard-mounted and wall-mounted.
- The most convenient designs are ceiling-type devices. They do not take up extra space, while possessing a fairly wide radiation range. There are models that are mounted in a suspended ceiling, the so-called built-in ones, and there are also those that are mounted under the ceilings with ordinary brackets - suspended. After installation, the distance between the ceiling and the unit body must be at least 5 cm.
- Floor heaters are not as powerful and efficient; they have many more obstacles in the path of their radiation than ceiling heaters. When choosing them, it is better to choose devices with a carbon or tubular heating element. The ceramic heater has a short service life. A halogen-type heating element may emit short waves that are harmful to health and are unacceptable.
- Wall-mounted infrared heaters should be mounted at some distance from the floor. If there are small children in the family, the device is installed at a fairly safe height. If you plan to install the heater under a window, it is better to choose a baseboard model - it will fit perfectly under the window opening.
Ceiling models require the least movement - they just need to be dusted off periodically.
Regarding floor and wall models, the main rule here is that they do not need to be covered with anything on top. Their front side must be located at least a meter from the outlet (which must be grounded) and from any other object in the room. In wet rooms, it is recommended to use devices with a protection class of at least IP24.
Effect of wavelength on heating temperature
Heating elements located inside IR heaters can have different heating temperatures and different wavelengths. They are as follows:
- Long wave emitters (ranging from 5.6 to 100 microns). Their operating temperature ranges from 100 to 600 0C; they are used for heating homes, offices, and industrial premises where the ceiling height is at least 3 meters. A heater whose operating temperature ranges between 120 0C is suitable for an apartment.
- Medium waves (wavelength from 2.5 to 5.6 microns) are emitted by heaters whose operating temperature ranges from 600 to 1000 degrees. The ceiling height in the room where this device is installed should be from 3 to 6 meters. This type of heater is suitable for a large private home or office building.
- Short-wave instruments (from 0.74 to 2.5 microns). The operating temperature of such devices is about 1000 0C. The required ceiling height for installation of such devices is 6-8 meters. Ceilings of this height can be found in a factory or factory workshop, or in a greenhouse. Also, such heaters can be installed outdoors. Such heaters are highly not recommended for home use.
About the types of heating element
When deciding on the choice of an IR heater, you need to remember that they also differ in the shell that covers the element emitting the waves. This shell can be made of materials such as metal, quartz or ceramics.
A halogen heater is a halogen lamp that emits in the infrared range. A tungsten or carbon fiber filament is placed inside the lamp. When the filament is heated, infrared energy is released, which in turn is transferred to the lamp tube.
Halogen lamps emit a golden light that irritates the eyes; in order to prevent this, some manufacturers coat the lamps with a special compound. But at the same time, halogen heaters emit short waves that negatively affect health.
Carbon heater - made in the form of a quartz tube. Inside it, in a vacuum environment, there is a carbon spiral. The advantages of this design are fast heating and the fact that its efficiency is much higher than that of a metal plate.
There are also disadvantages: the service life of such a heater is about two years, as well as a high level of electricity consumption of about 1-2.5 kW. The disadvantages include the fact that during operation they emit red light that irritates the eyes and that they are contraindicated for use by asthmatics and allergy sufferers.
The heating element, covered with a ceramic shell, is quite reliably protected and does not emit a glow during operation. The service life of this element is at least 3 years, but the price is much higher than that of quartz. The advantages include its efficiency during operation of about 0.5-2 kW. This difference is due to design features.
The tubular element is made of metal, its design resembles a ceramic element, but the price is an order of magnitude higher. These heaters are convenient and reliable in everyday life, as well as good performance.
If you are not annoyed by a slight crackling sound during its operation, it is recommended to choose a device with this heater. The cracking occurs due to the fact that the coefficients of thermal expansion of the aluminum case and the steel spiral are different. This doesn't mean anything bad.
Optimal power of an IR device
A room of 10 m2 usually requires a power of approximately 1 kW. But it is recommended to choose a heater with a certain power reserve. This is necessary in order to take into account heat loss through windows, walls and ceilings. In the case when this device is used to supplement the heating system, the power must be calculated in relation to its operating conditions. Heat loss should also be taken into account here.
Sometimes on the shelves you can come across heaters with a power of only 300 W. They are very convenient for use where it is necessary to warm up the room for a short time and quickly, for example, a garage, chicken coop or basement. These devices will not cause any particular harm to health, so they can work near people.
When choosing an IR heater for your summer house, keep in mind that a summer house does not require a high heating temperature - it would be optimal to increase the temperature in it by just a few degrees. So it would be best to choose a heater with a power rating of 60-80 W per 1 m2. If it’s cold, these numbers will need to be adjusted.
IR radiation does not harm human health, in some cases it is even beneficial. It’s just better not to stay under direct rays for a long time, otherwise you can get heatstroke similar to sunstroke.
Also, if the room is heated by a device whose power is calculated at 150 W per 1 sq. m, then you can not only weaken the immune system, but also damage the structure of protein molecules. It will be optimal to operate the device at a rate of 60-100 watts per 1 sq. m.
Short-wave heaters are not recommended, as these waves can penetrate the body. Long waves are not dangerous, but heaters of this type must be strictly regulated in height, since the intensity of the radiation of these waves depends on the distance to the irradiation area.
Be sure to monitor your health while using the IR heater. If you feel unwell, it is better to reduce the radiation power. It is better to follow this rule - several low-power IR heaters are much more effective and safer than one powerful one.
Criteria for choosing an infrared heater
When choosing an IR heater, first of all, you need to know the thickness of the anodizing layer on the IR radiation plate. For stable operation for 20 years, the thickness of this layer must be at least 25 microns. If this layer is thinner, then after 3 years you will have to say goodbye to this heater, as it will burn out. You can’t check this visually; you just have to rely on the seller’s honesty.
The material from which the heating element is made also matters. If it is ferrous metal, then it is better not to use it in rooms with high humidity (bath, sauna); for such rooms it is better to use an element made of stainless steel.
The thickness of the emitter foil should not be less than 120 microns. Otherwise, instead of heating the room, the rays will waste heat on the ceiling. This is quite simple to check - press the foil with the tip of a ballpoint pen; if the foil is wrinkled or perforated, this means that its thickness does not exceed 100 microns and it is not of very high quality. At 120 microns, it will not be possible to make a hole by pressing a ballpoint pen.
It would be a good idea to check whether the heater has:
- thermostat. It is better to choose a model with a thermostat that allows you to maintain a constant temperature;
- presence of an overheat protection sensor;
- for tabletops, it would be useful to have a rollover protection sensor;
- the presence of a remote control, ceiling models, as a rule, are equipped with it, for others it all depends on the model.
To prevent the case from heating above 95 0C, it has an insulator. They come in various types, of which the safest and best is basalt insulator. It is best that it does not contain any additives that can be harmful to health. It is considered optimal if the heat insulator is allowed to be used in the food industry - this must be noted in the hygiene certificate.
The body of the unit must be made of good quality material. Previously, the material from which cases were made was steel; now aluminum cases have appeared, but steel ones are still more reliable. When inspecting the device, inspect the body from the inside; there should be no signs of corrosion on it. If they are present, this means that they will gradually appear on the outside. Which will not only spoil the appearance, but also shorten its service life.
Rules for installing IR equipment
- Choose the right power! For residential premises, the optimal level of thermal radiation is 50-100 W/m², but not more than 150 W/m².
- Keep your distance! The device should not be too close to a person - maximum 0.5 m. Strictly follow the height requirements specified in the instructions.
- Position it correctly! The rays should fall on the heating zone. There should be no curtains or blinds nearby.
- Do not install near windows! Otherwise, the rays will pass through the glass, and the room will be cold.
- Consider the type of base! The devices can be mounted on a concrete, brick or wooden base with a heat resistance of at least 80 °C.
Step-by-step installation instructions:
- Drill holes in the wall or ceiling and attach brackets.
- Place the unit on the brackets and adjust its tilt.
- Connect the electrical cable to the terminals, taking into account the polarity (phase-zero) and grounding.
- To lay the wiring, use a box (cable channel) or corrugation in case of hidden installation.
- If there is a thermostat, then you need to connect the wire to it and connect the wires using terminal blocks, observing the polarity.
- Before plugging in, wipe the device plate with alcohol and let it dry.
Thus, choosing, installing and connecting an infrared heater is quite simple, but you must adhere to some features. Therefore, installation according to the principle “where and how it is convenient for me” is not suitable for these devices. Remember to keep your distance so as not to harm your household!