Infrared heating – advantages and disadvantages

Modern technological solutions often cause concern – but ultimately, they are created to make our lives more comfortable. The same is true of infrared heating, which has recently gained popularity. So we decided to take a slightly closer look at this innovation. Check out the advantages and disadvantages of infrared space heating.

How does an infrared heater work?

Let’s start by explaining how an infrared heater works. The most important feature of this solution is that the heaters use electromagnetic waves in the infrared wave range. They are capable of transporting energy, while invisible to the human eye. With infrared heating, the ability to transport energy is used to transfer heat. In other words, heaters produce infrared waves, emitting them into the environment.

How it works. Turning on the heater means that the heater starts producing infrared waves, which then propagate into the room. In itself, however, this does not yet warm the air. It is worth noting that infrared heating does not work by directly heating the air, which is a major difference from the operation of conventional heaters. Infrared waves are absorbed by surfaces in the room, such as the floor, walls, ceiling, or furniture, and then given back to the environment in the form of heat.

An important feature of infrared heating is the even distribution of heat in the room. Traditional heaters emit heat in spots so that the area around them is always the warmest. In contrast, a heater that emits infrared waves, as previously mentioned, is not a direct source of heat, so it spreads evenly in the space.

Infrared heating – advantages

Infrared heating is still a new solution, but it is gaining in popularity. This is determined by several advantages of this system.

• Energy efficiency – the smaller amount of energy used to operate infrared heaters is enough to heat the same area as most other heat sources, using more energy. This means lower electricity bills.
• Healthy air – the air in infrared-heated rooms is cleaner. The heating also does not affect humidity levels. This means that infrared space heating is a solution that is beneficial from the perspective of human health.
• Fast and even heating – operating infrared heating directly affects objects and surfaces, so that the room reaches the desired temperature in a very short time. Also important is what we discussed earlier – the fact that the heat spreads evenly, reaching every corner of the room.
• Flexibility of installation – infrared heaters are relatively small structures. In addition, their location does not affect the effectiveness of heating. Thus, you can place the infrared heating source both on the wall and on the ceiling, in the center of the room, or a corner.
• Aesthetics – in the era of minimalism and modern design, the appearance of heating devices is as important as their functionality. Modern infrared heaters are slim and elegant, so they can be a decorative element of the interior.

What are the disadvantages of infrared heating?

Every solution has its worst sides. Also, infrared heating is not without disadvantages. Let’s check what are the most important ones.

• High initial cost – the purchase and installation of modern infrared heaters is a relatively large expense. However, by betting on a quality, reliable heater of this type, you ensure that you will save on heating for many years, thanks to the high efficiency of this heat source.
• The need for proper insulation – putting infrared heating works most effectively when rooms are well insulated. Inadequate insulation means that the heat generated by radiators is largely wasted, resulting in the need to turn on the heating more often and use more energy. Ultimately, however, inadequate insulation reduces the efficiency of any type of space heating to a greater or lesser extent.
• Temperature control – for those accustomed to traditional heating systems, adapting to a new way of regulating the temperature can initially pose some challenges. Ultimately, however, it is nothing complicated and it is enough to get used to it.

Is infrared heating cost-effective?

The question of the cost-effectiveness of infrared heating is certainly a key issue. While the initial cost may be higher than with the purchase and installation of other heat sources, it is the long-term benefits that encourage investment in just this solution. The cost-effectiveness of infrared space heating is evidenced by:

• Lower energy bills – due to the higher efficiency of infrared heating, users save significantly on energy bills.
• Lower maintenance costs – infrared heating radiators are not prone to breakdowns and are essentially maintenance-free.
• Long life – these heaters are durable and can last for many years, giving a higher return on investment.

It is important to remember that optimizing the operation of infrared heaters requires certain conditions. It is worth taking care of the proper insulation of the building so that the system can operate at maximum efficiency. Also, remember to choose the right system to manage the operation of the heater. Today you have a lot of choices in this area. You can even control the installation from a mobile app, which is guaranteed by the solutions we offer.

We hope that you already know how an infrared heater works. On the other hand, the question of whether it is the right solution for you depends on many factors. Before making a decision, consider both the advantages and disadvantages of infrared heating – this will allow you to make the right choice.