Tips for Choosing an Electric Infrared Heater

Convectors principle of operation and features

The principle of operation of KO is based on convection - air circulation. The air flow passes through the heating plates and lifts the heat up. The coolant, in our case air, most often circulates through a small pipe with a connected heating element. Infrared-convective heaters are fed in two ways:

electricity

Such devices have a closed circuit of pipes through which the air flow passes.The design of the device is made in such a way that air penetrates as quickly as possible into all the slots of the radiator. Often, a fan is installed in electrical appliances to speed up the heating of the room. Electric convectors replace the usual heating radiators and are easily installed on the wall. The latest generation models can be mounted under the floor.

natural gas

Convector-type gas heaters use air from the street to burn gas, and they also send combustion products there.

Gas-powered convectors are considered a good option, since they do not depend on central supply networks, are installed in any room and are much cheaper than their counterparts. As always, there is one “but” - gas equipment requires the output of a coaxial pipe that removes combustion products. To do this, you have to disturb the wall of the house. Besides any "gas" work requires the preparation of a project plan and its approval in the relevant services. By law, the owner of the dwelling, with all the desire, cannot install the equipment on his own, for this there are special authorities with a license for this type of activity. If the price of blue fuel in your region is low, then you should choose a gas convector from all the options.

Scope of use

The main feature of convectors is the ability to heat the entire room, and not some area, such as, for example, a convector or an infrared convective heater. The flow of hot air spreads throughout the room, but the efficiency is still limited - the convector is afraid of drafts. If you have a large room, poor thermal insulation and frequent drafts, then this is not the best choice.Therefore, the optimal room is a small room with sufficient insulation, for example, insulated walls and high-quality windows.

Operating principle

Electric infrared heaters convert energy into rays of infrared waves, and in their effect are similar to the sun's rays.

That is why, in the zone of action of radiation, the surrounding objects heat up more than the air itself, as is the case with convectors.

Depending on the power and wavelength, you can pick up the device both in a small room and in an industrial room.

For example, wall-mounted film heaters consume from 250 to 450 W, and, accordingly, are designed for an area of ​​3 to 5 square meters. m. In turn, infrared ceiling thermal curtains provide a comfortable temperature in rooms of 40-60 square meters. m., while consuming from 3.5 to 5 kW of energy.

Additional features and equipment

Modern infrared heaters can be equipped with additional options that simplify the operation of the device, but significantly increase its cost. In modern heating devices you can find:

1. Built-in humidifier, which helps to create an optimal and healthy microclimate in the heated room.
2. The fan creates air streams for uniform distribution of heat on the room.
3. The disinfector neutralizes most pathogenic bacteria in the air.
4. The ionizer reduces the amount of dust in the air.
5. The built-in thermostat is intended for regulation and maintenance of the set temperature.
6. Automatic shutdown device in case of accidental drop. Very desirable for floor models.
7. A telescopic tripod allows you to change the position of the emitter in space.
8. Remote control. Availability would be a plus.
9. Protective grille is mandatory for all mobile and some wall mounted models.
10. The swivel bracket is required for wall-mounted models.
11. Overheating protection required.
12. Moisture protection. Necessary option if you plan to use the device in wet rooms.

Cons of infrared heaters

Despite all the advantages of infrared heaters, compared to oil or convection heaters, this type of equipment still has disadvantages. They are insignificant, but they should be taken into account when choosing a heater for an office, house or apartment, as this will affect ease of use and safety.

Rapid drop in temperature when the heater is turned off

If you turn off the oil heater, then the heat from the heated liquid will still spread throughout the room for some time. This allows you to alternate the intervals of activity and passivity of the device so that it consumes less electricity, but does not stop heating.

Infrared heaters give off heat only when switched on. As soon as the voltage stops flowing to the heating element, radiant heat stops. The user immediately becomes cool. If the device has been working in the room for a long time, so that the walls and objects have warmed up, then the comfortable temperature will last a little longer. When turned on for a short time, as soon as the device is turned off, it will immediately become cold.

Uneven heating

Another disadvantage of an infrared heater is uneven heating.All his work, due to the involvement of electromagnetic waves in the infrared range, has a directional effect. As a result, in a room of 5x5 m, heat will be felt by those people who are in the zone of influence of the heater. The rest will be cold. For example, if there are two beds in a children's room in different corners, then you will have to put them side by side or use two IR devices at once.

Uneven heating is also manifested in the fact that radiant heat heats the zone like light from a flashlight - where it hits. Therefore, on the one hand, the human body can even be hot, and on the other, it feels cool from the surrounding air. With such an operation of the device in the open air, it will have to be periodically rearranged or turned by itself in order to warm up from all sides.

Negative impact on a person with prolonged intensive exposure

In general, IR heaters are safe for health, but problems can arise when you stay under a constantly turned on high-temperature device for a long time. It's like sitting under the sun for a long time - you won't get a tan from infrared rays, but the concentrated heat will dry out the skin, and the body will not have time to compensate for the loss of moisture by removing sweat in this place. Overdried skin can then bake and peel off. Therefore, sitting on one side with bare parts of the body to a constantly turned on heater is not recommended.

Dangerous for children and pets

High-temperature IR heaters with spiral heating elements can cause burns if a person touches the bulb or reflector. Although the heating element of the IR heater is enclosed in a glass tube, the surface of the latter is still very hot.

The heating element of the apparatus is often covered with a metal grate with large cells, so children, out of curiosity, can easily stick their hand in there. In view of this, you should not leave the included IR heater and children in the same room unattended. A pet with long hair can be hurt if it rubs against the heater and accidentally touches the heated bulb with the coil.

Bright light

Infrared heaters with tubular heating elements have another drawback - a bright glow. In daylight, this is not very noticeable and only helps to see whether the device is working or not. In the setting of a street cafe, it is even attractive in the evening.

But in a room at night, such a “bulb” can interfere with rest, continuing to shine brightly in the eyes. It is impossible to turn the case in the other direction, because then the heat will be directed past.

Fire risk

This shortcoming again concerns only high-temperature models. The tall stand of the heater allows it to be installed at different heights to adjust the direction of radiant heat depending on the user's location. The stand has a four-point stand to ensure a stable position, but a large dog in the house can easily overwhelm the unit by running past. If this is not seen, then touching the carpet or continuing to shine on the wooden flooring in this position, the heater can start a fire.

Having considered from all sides the topic of the pros and cons of IR heaters, it will be easier for you to make your choice. And you can find out already tested and popular models that have positive reviews by looking at the next page of the site, which describes the best infrared heaters of all kinds.

Feature Comparison

The speed of air heating by convectors is very low, but they allow to achieve the most uniform temperature distribution. It will not be possible to warm up in a cold room from a convector heater, you will have to wait several hours. The heat from the infrared emitter can be felt almost immediately, and there will be no accumulation of warm air near the ceiling. You can direct the beams directly to the area where the person is located.

Ease of use depends on instrument configuration. Wall models of convectors do not take up additional space and are easy to use. Stand-alone appliances can interfere with movement. Portable infrared heaters require a large area for placement. To free up space, it is recommended to purchase suspended models that can be placed on walls or ceilings.

Unlike infrared heaters, convectors do not require monitoring of their operation. The device can be safely left switched on unattended. Infrared devices are characterized by a greater fire hazard, so it is recommended to use them with constant monitoring.

Do not direct the radiation of infrared devices on surfaces that can be damaged by elevated temperatures. Nearby furniture and furnishings can become very hot.

The environmental friendliness of infrared heaters is higher, since they do not contribute to significant air movements inside the room. Convectors carry out constant circulation, as a result of which dust can rise into the air. But none of the devices of both types emit harmful substances during operation.

Convectors reduce the level of humidity much more strongly, so they are recommended to be used in conjunction with humidifiers.

have great durability

Energy costs depend on operating conditions. Studies show that infrared heaters are more economical than convectors. Savings in the use of infrared radiation is achieved due to the high heating rate. After reaching the desired temperature, the infrared heater can be turned off, but heated objects will retain heat for a long time. And the convector often has to work continuously.

It is not possible to unambiguously determine which heating method is better. The choice always depends on the specific tasks and operating conditions. A good solution would be to combine devices. You can purchase a combined heater or use two devices with a different principle of operation.

How to choose a ceiling infrared heater

Ceiling infrared type devices are installed in residential buildings, in open areas, in greenhouses and in industries.

What are IR devices

There are IR devices for outdoor and indoor installation on the market. Manufacturers produce household and industrial models that differ in appearance, heating temperature and power. There are samples for rooms with a high level of humidity (saunas) and with explosion protection.

Ceiling-type infrared heaters are:

• with and without thermostat
• gas;
• electrical;
• with open and closed coolant.

There are differences in the wavelength emitted by the device:

• shortwave, designed for rooms with a height of 6 m;
• medium wave - for objects 3-6 m high;
• long-wave - installed in rooms up to 3 m high.

Heating elements are:

• carbon fiber (heating occurs due to carbon filaments);
• quartz (heating is carried out by a tungsten filament);
• ceramic (the case of such a device does not heat up);
• tubular (heaters);
• halogen (the coolant is an inert gas, which is in the tube).

Manufacturers produce low and high temperature models. For small rooms choose dark samples (do not glow when heated) with low temperatures. For large production areas, light-type heaters are chosen. They are used in stadiums, warehouses, open marketplaces.

For greater efficiency of the ceiling-type IR heater, a thermal curtain is installed together with the device. It retains heat and reduces energy losses.

Advantages of infrared heaters

The efficiency of devices is 95-98%. The room is heated vertically, in the direction from bottom to top. Thanks to this, heat fills the room faster, energy consumption is reduced by 5-10% for each degree saved. The operation of IR devices does not require constant human control. They are cheap compared to other heaters. Since ceiling systems are static and contain no moving parts, maintenance is minimal and no maintenance is required.

Also, IR heaters have advantages in comparison with other types:

• high heating rate;
• since there are no fans in models of this type, they operate silently;
• easy and quick to install;
• do not emit light;
• fireproof;
• the possibility of heating a separate zone of the room is provided;
• IR rays have a positive effect on the body.

Minuses

A relatively new type of equipment for space heating has a number of disadvantages:

• after turning off the room cools quickly;
• there is a limitation in the power of the heat flux (if it exceeds 350 W / m², the radiation becomes harmful to the body);
• paintings, objects made of artificial materials are not placed in the zone of action of the rays (they can be deformed when heated);
• when buying a ceiling appliance, take into account that the distance from the heating source to the person’s head must be at least 50 cm;
• installation on a ceiling made of materials that are not resistant to heat is not allowed.

Subtleties of choice

Depending on the heated area and operating conditions, the number of heaters is calculated. For a small room, one device is installed, for working in large areas - several. When choosing a model, a number of indicators are taken into account.

1. Before choosing a ceiling infrared heater, determine on what area it should work. For industrial, office and warehouse premises of a large area, powerful light-type heaters are chosen.
2. An important indicator is the condition of the ceiling. Beams, ceilings, tension structures must support the weight of the model.
3. The height of the ceiling must ensure normal heat flow.
4. Heat carrier type.
5. For ceiling mounting, light models with an aluminum case, film devices are chosen.
6. The presence of a remote control, overheating sensor, thermostat in the sample. With these devices, the maintenance of the model is simplified.
7. Several models are installed on a large area.

Subject to the selection rules, the device will last a long time, and power consumption will be minimal.

Installation subtleties

Heaters are installed parallel to windows, doors, external walls.If you plan to install several devices, make a calculation to ensure uniform heating of the room.

One heater, mounted on the ceiling at a height of 2.5 m, operates on an average of 20 m². On sale there are suspended heaters and built-in models.

Operating tips

From ceiling devices, you only need to sweep and wipe the dust. No further maintenance is required for a normally operating heater. The connection must be made in such a way that about 1 m remains to any object and even to the electrical outlet. To reduce consumption, you must carefully monitor the temperature, first of all. By heating your home only as needed, you can significantly reduce energy consumption.

If possible, you should switch to a mixed tariff, when electricity is cheaper at night. In a wooden house, it is advisable to put heaters on fireproof stands with low thermal conductivity. Do not cover or block heating equipment. Owners of infrared heaters should keep powder or carbon dioxide fire extinguishers ready.

Experts strongly advise you to read the instruction manual in advance, and only then use the device. It is unacceptable to use heating equipment after the expiration of the period recommended by the manufacturer. You should regularly check the serviceability of the equipment, do not change its device.

pros

The undoubted advantages of infrared heaters can be considered:

• excellent level of heat transfer with a small consumption of heat or electric current;
• a wide variety of appearance depending on the design of the designers;
• "soft heat";
• maintaining normal air humidity;
• no smell of burning dust;
• relatively small area of ​​the device;
• no need to store a supply of fuel;
• almost complete absence of noise;
• the ability to connect to a conventional electrical outlet;
• technology mobility.

But it is necessary to understand the positive aspects correctly - that is, not as absolute virtues. So, the efficiency of infrared heaters is manifested only with a competent approach. A lot depends on the correct selection of materials for the house and good thermal insulation. If mistakes are made in these moments, the efficiency of heating devices will not correct the situation. By the way, it only slightly exceeds the efficiency of conventional electric convectors.

Overview of the best manufacturers

An extensive range of catalytic heaters is represented by various imported and domestic brands. Consider several manufacturers whose products are recognized by consumers as the best in this area.

No. 1 - reliable and functional Bartolini devices

Heating equipment of the Italian brand Bartolini is the most in demand on the market. The company produces quite powerful devices with a capacity of 2900 to 4200 W, running on liquefied gas.

The main emphasis in production is on the independence of equipment from the presence of communications.

Almost all of the presented models are equipped with gas cylinders built into the body, have several power modes with the possibility of stepwise adjustment, and are offered in different configurations. The operation of the devices is based on the conversion of thermal energy into infrared radiation.

Most of them have CO2 control sensors, rollover shutdown systems.Among buyers, the Bartolini pullover k model is especially in demand.

No. 2 - compact and economical models from Campingaz

The next most popular company is Campingaz

This French company produces efficient and safe gas heaters for residential, warehouse, commercial and industrial premises. Special attention is paid to portable equipment that provides a comfortable stay in nature.

Campingaz heaters are characterized by small dimensions, stylish modern design, and long working life. They are equipped with reliable sensors-analyzers that guarantee the safety of device operation.

Brand devices provide excellent heat dissipation, have European quality certificates. Their production involves new technologies for economical fuel consumption.

The average cost of products is 11 thousand rubles. The best representative of the range is Campingaz cr 5000 turbo.

No. 3 - comfortable and safe Kovea brand heaters

The Korean company Kovea offers customers gas heaters of various designs. Mostly these are compact portable models of low power, operating on the basis of infrared radiation.

The main difference between Kovea heaters is the simplicity of the device, compactness and light weight. They are very convenient to use, but are designed for heating a small area. They are mainly used outdoors, hiking, in small garages and utility rooms.

The Korean manufacturer practically does not use plastic elements in the design of its devices, which further increases the safety of operation. The average price of products is 5-8 thousand rubles.

No. 4 - inexpensive and hardy heaters from Argo

The budget version of the catalytic heater is offered by the domestic manufacturer Argo. The gas heat generator of this company is designed for heating industrial premises, garages, verandas with normal air circulation. Farmers often use it in greenhouses, sheds.

The device runs on gas supplied through a special hose from a cylinder with a volume of 5-15 liters. With a performance of 2900 W, 250 g / h of fuel is consumed. Despite the minimum percentage of carbon dioxide emissions, the device must not be operated in poorly ventilated rooms.

With not too large dimensions, the weight of the device is 6.7 kg. There are no wheels in it, so it is quite difficult to move it over long distances. But for stationary use, it is quite suitable. The approximate cost of the device is 2000 rubles.

Does the catalytic version of the device seem unreasonably expensive to you as a temporary heater for summer cottages? We recommend that you familiarize yourself with other gas appliances suitable for heating temporary accommodation.

How it works?

The IR device is simple in design. It consists of a heating element (heater), a radiating plate (emitter), heat-insulating material with a reflector layer. Due to this, the intensity of heat transfer to the room increases when the heating element is heated. The body of the electric ceiling infrared heater is mounted on a horizontal surface using brackets. Devices are often equipped with thermostats, which allows you to control the air temperature.

The principle of operation of such a technique is based on the ability to emit radiation waves in different ranges (0.75-100 microns). This happens when the device is connected to a power source.As a result, the temperature of the heating element increases. Infrared radiation hits the surfaces of objects that are in the room. At the same time, they heat up.

However, at the initial stage of operation of the device, the air temperature does not change. This means that infrared radiation does not contribute directly to environmental parameters. This happens only as a result of indirect influence, when the surfaces heated by the IR device begin to release the received heat into the air.

The advantage of devices of this type is the ability to maintain a comfortable ambient temperature for a long period without the need to restart. This is due to the fact that surfaces made of different materials (metal, plastic, wood, laminate, etc.) cool down slowly, continuing to give off heat to the air.

For comparison, the classic convection model of the device heats the air. At the same time, it quickly becomes necessary to reheat the room. The intervals between turning on the IR device are much longer, which saves energy. This technique is safe for humans, because it is the best infrared source in the most comfortable range: from 5.6 to 100 microns.