Advantages and disadvantages of infrared heaters

Infrared heaters are becoming increasingly popular in the heating systems market, thanks to their many advantages. However, like all technologies, they also have their drawbacks. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how infrared heaters work, their advantages and disadvantages, to help you make an informed decision.

How the infrared heaters work

Infrared heaters use infrared radiation to generate heat. Unlike conventional convection heating systems, which heat the air, infrared panels heat objects and bodies in space directly. Infrared rays travel through the air and are only converted into heat when they come into contact with solid surfaces.

The benefits of infrared heaters

Energy saving

Infrared panels are energy efficient because they heat people and objects directly, not the air. This means that less energy is required to achieve and maintain the same temperature than conventional heating systems.

Fast heating

Because infrared heaters heat objects and people directly, the heat is felt more quickly than convection systems, which need time to heat the air.

Health benefits

Infrared heaters do not circulate dust and allergens in the air, making them particularly beneficial for people with allergies or asthma. In addition, infrared heat can be beneficial for joint pain and muscle tension.

Saving space

Infrared heaters are thin and discreet, so they take up little space. They can be wall or ceiling mounted, which is particularly useful in small rooms.

Easy installation and maintenance

The installation of infrared heaters is simple and does not require complicated piping or boilers. They are also low maintenance, as there are no moving parts to break down.

Disadvantages of infrared heaters

Limited heating capacity

The effectiveness of infrared heaters may be reduced in larger or poorly insulated rooms. In such cases, more panels may be needed, which can increase costs and complicate installation.

Electricity dependence

Because infrared heaters use electricity, they do not work in the event of a power cut. This can be a problem in areas with frequent power cuts or where electricity is expensive.

Focused heating

The infrared heaters heat objects and people directly aimed at them, which means that if a person or object is not within the range of the panel, they will not feel the heat. This is different from convection systems, which heat the air evenly throughout the room.

Areas of application of infrared heaters

Residential buildings

Infrared heaters are ideal for residential buildings, especially in rooms where rapid heating is needed, such as bathrooms or bedrooms. They are also aesthetically pleasing, with a wide range of designs and colours available.

Offices and business premises

In offices and business premises, infrared heaters provide a comfortable temperature quickly and efficiently. In these environments, the benefits of infrared panels include dust and allergen-free heating, which can improve the comfort and health of workers.

Public places and outdoor use

In public places, such as restaurant terraces, infrared heaters are also ideal for outdoor heating. The infrared rays directly heat guests, providing a comfortable environment even in cooler weather.

Installation considerations

Location

When positioning the infrared heaters, it is important to consider that the rays are aimed directly at the areas where the heat is needed. For best results, panels should be installed in locations where there are no obstructions to the path of the radiation.

Insulation

The efficiency of the infrared heaters is greatly influenced by the insulation of the building. In well-insulated rooms, fewer panels may be sufficient, while in poorly insulated rooms more panels may be needed to achieve the right temperature.

Electrical capacity

Before installing the panels, it is worth checking the capacity of the building's electrical network. For higher power panels, it may be necessary to extend the network or create a separate circuit.

Complementary technologies

Smart control

The infrared heaters can be compatible with smart thermostats and control systems that allow remote access and automatic temperature control. This can increase system efficiency and comfort.

Solar panels

Combining infrared heaters with solar panels can be an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution. The energy produced by solar panels can be used directly to power the panels, reducing reliance on the electricity grid and electricity bills.

Temperature sensors

The use of temperature sensors and thermostats allows for more precise temperature control and energy savings. These sensors automatically switch the infrared panels on and off when the room temperature reaches the desired level.

Infrared heaters offer a modern and efficient solution for heating, with many advantages and some disadvantages. By taking into account installation and operational considerations, and by integrating complementary technologies, infrared panels can meet modern needs and comfort requirements. Before making a decision, it is worth considering all the factors carefully to choose the best possible solution.