Blog: What is Infrared Heating?
There are many ways to heat workspaces and leisure spaces. The choice of heating appliance you choose is usually based on the size of the area you wish to heat as well as the running costs.
Infrared is a heating method used to warm surfaces, objects and people by infrared radiation. It offers a fast, efficient and convenient method of heating specific areas in hard to heat spaces, like workstations in warehouses and factories, bar & hotel terraces, beer gardens, patios and more.
How Does Infrared Heating Work?
Most infrared heaters are powered by electricity. They feature an infrared heating element or ‘lamp’ which converts electrical power into radiant heat.
‘Infrared’ is part of the electromagnetic spectrum. This heat is transmitted by electromagnetic waves through the air until it reaches an object, surface or person.
The electromagnetic waves are absorbed and this has the effect of warming the surface, object or person.
Infrared is completely safe and it is a form of light. Just like light, it travels in straight lines and reduces over distance. So, the closer you are to the heater, the more of the infrared heat is absorbed by you and the warmer you feel. The further away, the less of it reaches you and the colder you feel.
This method of heating ensures that heat is not wasted on heating the surrounding air, but rather heating what is needed - you!
Infrared heating can be compared to feeling the sun on your face. The radiant heat provides a comfortable and evenly distributed temperature on the surfaces, objects and people being heated.
What Types of Infrared Heating are there?
When deciding on an infrared heater you will need to think about where it is going and what you want it to heat. There are models for indoor and outdoor, as well free-standing models, as well as wall and ceiling mounted versions.
Which you choose will depend on the size of the area, and what suits the space.
A big difference to understand is the different types of infrared heat - short wave, medium wave and long wave. As the names imply, this refers to the size of heat waves the appliance gives out, which alter the application it can be used for. These are the differences and where you might use them:
Short Wave Infrared: This is often the best choice for outdoor heating, like patio heating. It reaches the top temperature almost instantly and can come free-standing or wall mounted.
Medium Wave Infrared: Whilst this still has a quick temperature warm-up time, it has a lower heat output than the Short-Wave, reduced efficiency and they are not as effective on windy days. Medium-wave heaters are ideal for industrial applications, such as wall-mounted in warehouses, factories and garages.
Long Wave Infrared: These heaters typically take the longest to heat up and offer the lowest heat output. Though this is the often the best choice for indoor locations.
Where can Infrared Heaters be used?
Infrared heaters can be used in all kinds of locations – both indoors and outdoors.
There are stylish domestic and commercial models, as well as robust industrial models, available.
So whether you are looking to heat rooms in your home, a conservatory, garage, patio, terrace, hall, workshop, warehouse or factory, you will find suitable infrared heaters for the job.
What are The Advantages of Infrared Heaters?
As it is characterised as heating objects directly, infrared heating is one of the most efficient heating solutions on the market. With a range of designs from stylish, to functional; we’re sure you’ll find one right for you after reading these advantages:
- Quick and even spread of heat
- Clean & safe heat
- Highly efficient & cost-effective
- No maintenance required
- Indoor & outdoor (IP rated) version available
- Domestic, Commercial & Industrial versions available
- Freestanding, wall-mounted, ceiling mounted or hanging versions available
- Glowing or no light versions available
- Modern innovations like controllable thermostat, remote control & WiFi control
- No air movement means no spreading of dust particles. Ideal for use on work sites and for those prone to allergies and breathing difficulties.
Is Infrared Heating suitable for me?
If you are considering an infrared heater for your heating needs, get to know your space first, assess where it might be most appropriately placed to get the most efficient heating.
We have a wide range of infrared heaters, for indoor and outdoor use, as well as for domestic, commercial & industrial use. Take a look at the range on our website and order online or over the phone with our sales team. Contact us for any help and advice you need!
